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Prahl, F., Herbert, T., Brassell, S.C., Ohkouchi, N., Pagani, M., Repeta, D., Rosell-Mel\'{e}, A. and Sikes, E. (2000). Status of alkenone paleothermometer calibration: Report from Working Group #3. Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems 1. doi: 10.1029/2000GC000058. issn: 1525-2027. |
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The alkenone unsaturation index, U 37 K´ , has now proven its worth as a tool for paleothermometry. U 37 K´ measured in most modern sediments throughout the World Ocean can be translated using established calibrations into realistic, seemingly reliable estimates of mean annual temperature at the sea surface (SST). However, it remains mysterious why water temperature estimates based on this biotic index correspond to mean annual SST and whether such estimates apply back in geological time. Solving these mysteries is imperative and will require thoughtful, concerted research effort by the biological, chemical, and geological oceanographic community. This report summarizes what is now known about alkenones, in particular, their use in estimating the growth temperature of specific haptophyte algae that synthesize and export these compounds to the marine sediment record. It highlights future field and laboratory research directions that should be taken to clarify and bolster utility of alkenones as a generally valued paleoceanographic tool. |
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Abstract |
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Entire Document PDF |
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Keywords
Oceanography, Biological and Chemical, Organic marine chemistry, Oceanography, Biological and Chemical, Plankton, Global Change, Biogeochemical processes, Oceanography, General, Paleoceanography |
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Journal
Geochemistry Geophysics Geosystems |
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Publisher
American Geophysical Union
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