The development of clast fabric in mudflows

Mudflow deposits in Permian rocks in Antarctica are used as examples to demonstrate that a computer model will differentiate these from other diamictites. Four A-axis fabrics were measured from the mudflow units and were found to be similar to long-axis fabrics produced by simulations. When compared with till fabrics from the same section the mudflow fabrics can be distinguished because of the presence of dipping girdles in the latter. Had the mudflows been arrested at a stage of maximum fabric development, it would be impossible to distinguish them from most till fabrics. C-axis fabrics developed in mudflows have vertical modes while their counterparts in till fabrics plunge steeply in a downstream direction.