Objective: Abundant soft-sediment deformation structures (SSDS) were found in the Lower Cretaceous Lingshandao Formation on the Lingshan Island. The study aims to discuss the triggers of different SSDS and related environmental meanings. Methods: Field work was conducted for three sections: Chuangchang, Dengta and Qiancengya. Lithology and sedimentary structures were logged. Photos were taken for various SSDS. Thickness was also measured for both deformed and undeformed intervals. Results: Based on field survey of Chuanchang, Dengta and Qiancengya sections, two basic subdivisions were recognized as deformation intervals and undeformation intervals respectively, in both of which SSDS are developed. Folds, deformation laminations and load structures are observed in the deformation intervals, and flame structures, syn-sedimentary boudinage structures and synsedimentary micro-faults are seen in the undeformation intervals. SSDS show large scale (up to >10m thick and up to a few hundred meters long) and good lateral continuity in the deformation intervals, but small scale (only few cm) and poor lateral continuity in the undeformation intervals. Statistical relationship of thickness about undeformation and deformation intervals displays no direct relationship between SSDS of deformation intervals and sandstone thickness. However, SSDS of undeformation intervals occur at the base of graded sandstone or closely with sandstone beds with increased thickness in a thickeningupward cycle. Sedimentary environment analysis indicates a lowangle deepwater slope for the accumulation of Lingshandao Formation containing undeformation and deformation intervals. The slope topography, in a way, controls the morphology and quantity of SSDS. Based on sedimentary environment and sedimentary structures, the trigger is considered to be seismicity for the SSDS of the deformation intervals and overloading for that of undeformation intervals. Dated age using zircon evidences approximated deposited time between the Lingshandao Formation and overlying rhyolite bed. As a result, the seismicity of the triggers may be related to volcanic activities or early magma intrusion. Besides, catastrophic events（e.g. Early Cretaceous Anoxic Events） are inferred in the Early Cretaceous based on time—consistence of Lingshandao Formation, cooling event, dinosaur activity, sealevel fluctuation and carbon isotope excursion. Conclusions: The SSDS observed are considered to be caused by two kinds of triggers: seismicity and sediment load. Besides, the triggers imply contemporary volcanic activity. With other evidence, a catastrophic event like Early Cretaceous Anoxic Events is inferred.