Influence of Clast Axial Ratio on Macrofabric Strength in Periglacial Colluvium

Samples of fabric data collected from periglacial solifluction lobes in central Alaska show a systematic, positive relation between clast axial ratio and fabric strength. Samples composed of clasts with low a:b axial ratios have relatively low fabric strength. Restricting sampling to clasts with axial ratios of 1.5:1 or higher increases fabric strength and decreases its variability. To enhance comparability between fabric studies and the utility of fabric interpretation, sampling should be restricted to clasts with relatively large ( 1.5:1) axial ratios.