An assessment of the utility of regional diatom-based tidal-level transfer functions

Wilson, Graham P.; Lamb, Angela L.. 2012 An assessment of the utility of regional diatom-based tidal-level transfer functions. Journal of Quaternary Science, 27 (4). 360-370. https://doi.org/10.1002/jqs.1553

Full text not available from this repository. (Request a copy)

Abstract/Summary

In order to understand natural sea-level variability, and to enhance future predictions, accurate and precise estimates of Holocene tidal levels are required. Although the application of diatom-based transfer functions can yield such data, these work best when underpinned by local training sets. Urbanized estuaries offer little prospect of obtaining local training sets and, instead, the reliability of regional transfer functions has to be assessed. The performance of a published regional (UK) diatom-based tidal-level transfer function applied to fossil assemblages from two contrasting core sites in the Mersey Estuary, UK, is assessed using modern analogue techniques and sediment isotope data. We find that, although estimated tidal levels coincide with changes in organic matter source, the frequent lack of modern analogues mean that palaeotide estimates are without basis. This is likely a consequence of the site-specific nature of diatom assemblages in higher intertidal and supratidal areas in particular, where local factors are expected to exert a greater control on their ecology. This situation may be partly resolved by constructing and applying much larger regional training sets from multiple higher intertidal and supratidal sites (where intact). Otherwise the application of alternative techniques, such as regional foraminiferal tidal-level transfer functions, may be more appropriate.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	https://doi.org/10.1002/jqs.1553
Programmes:	BGS Programmes 2010 > NERC Isotope Geoscience Laboratory
ISSN:	0267-8179
Date made live:	08 May 2012 12:18 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/17979

Actions (login required)

View Item

Document Downloads

More statistics for this item...