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Orbital forcing is a fundamental driver of Earth surface systems. The understanding of feedback responses to orbital forcing remains limited, with one of the most distinguishing features being its inherent nonlinearity. In this paper, we present geological evidence demonstrating nonlinearity during the greenhouse climate state, as exemplified by the Middle Triassic lacustrine-delta succession of the Ordos Basin in China. By combining the radio-isotopic and astronomical timescale, it suggests that lacustrine black shale facies were developed during early Ladinian hyperthermal episode, while deltaic facies were developed before and after the hyperthermal episode. The lacustrine redox cycles exhibit dominant precession cycles with a period of ∼20 kyr, whereas these precession cycles tend to be covered by the eccentricity and obliquity cycles with periods of ∼100 kyr and ∼ 33 kyr respectively in the deltaic detrital-input cycles. The diverse manifestations of orbital cycles in various environments can be explained by the nonlinear feedbacks. It is proposed that feedback mechanisms result from the combination effects of direct and indirect hyperthermal events, which are respectively manifested by the climatic processes (p CO 2 level) and sedimentary processes. Sedimentary processes can enhance the influence of eccentricity through smoothing and memory effects, as supported by statistical analysis. The variations in atmospheric p CO 2 may also contribute to the feedback of eccentricity and obliquity cycles through climate threshold and intertropical convergence zone, as supported by paleoclimate simulation and land-ocean correlations. • Ladinian warming event results in the nonlinear responses to the orbital forcing. • p CO 2 directly influences the orbitally cyclic patterns of the Triassic climate. • Indirect sedimentation feedbacks include smoothing, memory and threshold effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rainforests near the early Eocene palaeo-equator were more resilient to greenhouse warming than mid-latitude vegetation. The mechanism underlying that resilience remains poorly known due to the lack of reliable terrestrial climate data from the palaeo-equator. In this paper, we quantify terrestrial temperature data using a plant proxy approach and infer that early Eocene climate near the palaeo-equator (∼2.6° N) was warmer than in mid- to high palaeolatitudes. The data also suggest that high levels of rainfall near the palaeo-equator might have afforded greater resilience to tropical rainforests by increasing the water use efficiency of trees during the warm greenhouse world of the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum. [Display omitted] • Quantified the terrestrial climate of Early Eocene Climatic Optimum of low latitude. • Rainforests near the equator were resilient and functional during this period. • Temperature reconstruction reveals a warmer equator than mid and high latitudes. • High rainfall provided resilience to rainforests to remain functional. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The depositional record of intermontane basins provides a valuable archive of the temporal evolution of orogenic belts; their common isolated nature may, however, hinder the efficient usage of standard approaches to constrain the age of a basin fill. In this paper the authigenic 10Be/9Be dating method is employed and tested to construct an age model of the existence and regression of Lake Turiec, which appeared during the Late Miocene in the intermontane Turiec Basin, Central Western Carpathians (Central Europe). The initial authigenic 10Be/9Be ratio, essential for the dating method, was analyzed on five sites of the Pleistocene-Holocene age, and back-calculation of the paleo-initial ratio was performed using lacustrine succession dated by magnetostratigraphy. Noteworthy, the initial ratio appears to be affected mainly by (post)depositional settings, and not by different provenance of the analyzed sediment. The sedimentological analysis of the Upper Miocene outcrops allowed the definition of the facies associations of an alluvial fan, a braided river, a fan delta and an open lake. The distribution of facies associations in the basin fill implies an increase in sediment supply to accommodation rate ratio due to the replacement of the open lake environment by the interconnected alluvial fan-braided river-fan delta system. Authigenic 10Be/9Be dating yielded ages of the lacustrine succession reaching ∼10.7–7.8 Ma, while the age of the fan delta succession, considered as the timing of the regression, was established to ∼6.7 Ma. The deposition of alluvial fans dominated the basin after the regression of the lake, possibly up to ∼4.0 Ma. The abrupt increase in sediment supply to the accommodation ratio at ∼6.7 Ma was caused by the uplift of the Malá Fatra Mts. at the western margin of the Turiec Basin, which had previously formed a moderate topography. The timing of this process generally coincides with the overall decrease in accommodation rates in the region due to the inversion of the Pannonian Basin System. The endorheic character of the basin before ∼6.7 Ma prevented the transport of the sediment denudated from the recently most uplifted parts of the Western Carpathians and carried towards the Pannonian Basin System, while the present-day source-to-sink system could only be formed later. This implies a low sediment supply and restricted denudation rate not only from the morphostructures surrounding the basin, but also from the Tatra Mts. and Nízke Tatry Mts. during the period ∼10.7–6.7 Ma. The research supports the suitability of intermontane basins for authigenic 10Be/9Be dating in a setting of high accommodation rates and limited redeposition of older muddy sediment. However, a special attention has to be paid to the depositional settings during determination of initial 10Be/9Be ratios. • Authigenic 10Be/9Be dating resolve history of a long-lived isolated late Miocene lake. • Initial 10Be/9Be affected by (post-)depositional settings, effect of provenance unnoticed. • Lake Turiec existed between ∼10.7–6.7 Ma, then filled by a fan delta-braided river-alluvial fan depositional system. • Regression due to increased sediment supply from mountains uplifting after ∼7 Ma. • Termination of endorheic character and establishment of the Váh River catchment followed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid cooling during the Eocene-Oligocene transition resulted in a vegetation shift in southern France, from warm, humid vegetation to open savannah-like vegetation; however, the precise nature of this shift is uncertain. In this paper, we study the latest Eocene flora from the Saint-Chaptes and Alès basins (southern France) and compare it with other well-known southern European localities to evaluate vegetation changes near the Eocene-Oligocene boundary. Five plant communities are recognised: 1) hydrophytic vegetation dominated by water lilies and a Limnobiophyllum -like plant; 2) reeds that formed a palustrine belt around the lake; 3) ferns with Osmunda aff. parschlugiana and Pronephrium stiriacum , conifers with Doliostrobus taxiformis , a Sequoia -like plant, angiosperms with Daphnogene sp. , Byttneriopsis sp., Myrica sp., Comptonia difformis and palms, which inhabited the lake shores and constituted the riparian vegetation; 4) Tetraclinis , which grew just behind the riparian vegetation but not far from watercourses, forming open landscapes and 5) Zizyphus ziziphoides , Fabaceae, and probably Ailanthus sp. and Tetraclinis forming an open woodland distal to the lake. The flora of the Saint-Chaptes and Alès basins resembles coeval floras from Sarral (Catalonia, Spain) that are characteristic of Southern Europe, although riparian vegetation is more diverse in the Saint-Chaptes and Alès basins, and Fabaceae diversity is higher at Sarral. We hypothesise that vegetation composition was mainly controlled by (1) basin architecture, allowing for a variety of wetland habitats and (2) climate. The coexistence of genera that are restricted to Central Europe (e.g., Byttneriopsis or Doliostrobus), together with genera more typical of Southern Europe (e.g., diversity of Fabaceae, C. difformis and Z. ziziphoides) suggests that the Saint-Chaptes and Alès basins contain latest Priabonian floras that are transitional between these two regions. • Plant paleoecology at the EOT is studied in the Alès and Saint-Chaptes basins (France). • Plant communities range from lacustrine, wetlands to savannah-like woodlands. • The riparian vegetation is more diverse than in other coeval South European plant sites. • Alès and Saint-Chaptes flora shows taxa characteristic either South or Central Europe. • These plants represent a transitional flora between the two main European vegetations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 4.2 ka event was a period of global drought and climate cooling linked to the widespread disruption of Neolithic culture. However, the detailed climatic changes during this period are not completely understood. In this paper, we report a high-resolution pollen record for the Dayanghu wetland in the Zhejiang region of southeastern China, which we use to infer mean annual precipitation (MAP) fluctuations during the period spanning 4600–4000 calendar years before present (cal. yr BP). There was a long-term trend of decreasing MAP during this interval, consistent with weakening of the East Asian Summer Monsoon since the mid-Holocene. This trend was punctuated by episodes of relatively high MAP at 4350–4320, ca. 4260, and 4220–4200 cal. yr BP, and extreme droughts at 4200 and 4150 cal. yr BP. We propose that solar activity promoted El Niño events and contributed to dramatic MAP fluctuations in the Dayanghu wetland. La Niña events and negative-phase intervals of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation may have been responsible for the extreme drought at 4200–4150 cal. yr BP. In summary, we propose a close relationship between MAP and solar forcing, with short-term enhanced solar activity increasing the intensity of the East Asian Summer Monsoon and contributing to increasing decadal variability in the inner tropical Pacific, which ultimately leads to increased precipitation variability in southeast China. The results improve our understanding of the detailed climatic features of the 4.2 ka event. • High-resolution pollen record for ca. 4.2 ka for the Zhejiang region, China. • Pollen-based mean annual precipitation was quantitatively reconstructed. • Long-term droughts tended to occur during 4600–4000 cal. yr BP. • La Niña-dominated ENSO contributed to a catastrophic drought at 4200–4150 cal. yr BP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding human impact on the vegetation of the Tibetan Plateau through the Holocene is important for developing strategies for sustainable ecosystem management in the region. In this paper, 53 pairs of surface-soil samples from inside and outside livestock enclosures were obtained from across the Tibetan Plateau to investigate the differences in pollen assemblages between grazed and ungrazed sites. This modern dataset was then applied to palynological records from four lakes in the northeast Tibetan Plateau region to investigate middle to late Holocene grazing history. Results show that modern grazing activities have a limited impact on the vegetation, although grazing activity leads to an increase in the pollen proportion of Cyperaceae, Artemisia , Ranunculaceae, Brassicaceae, Taraxacum -type, Fabaceae, and Saxifrageceae while representatives of Poaceae, Chenopodiaceae, and Aster -type pollen decrease. Application of these grazing indicators to the pollen spectra obtained from the four lake sites, together with other proxies, reveals that grazing activity only commenced during the last few hundred years in the northeast marginal areas of the Tibetan Plateau at c. 3000 m a.s.l, while there is no grazing signal in pollen records from above 4000 m a.s.l. Our study emphasises the importance of using multi-proxy methods in estimating signals of past human activity. • Pollen assemblage should be insensitive to grazing activities on the Tibetan Plateau. • Human impacts on vegetation at ∼3400 m a.s.l are limited to within a few centuries. • No significant pollen signal of grazing is revealed for the high-elevation areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangrove wetlands are important sites of carbon burial amounting to 15% of the global total for coastal environments even though they comprise only 0.5% of the coastal area. Carbon fixation and burial in mangrove wetlands are sensitive to environmental changes but difficult to quantify. In this paper, records of mangrove-derived organic carbon (OC) burial were analyzed for two mangrove wetlands, Bamen Bay estuary (BMB) and Danzhou Bay estuary (DZB), in Hainan Province, China, over timescales of the last few decades. The mangrove-specific biomarker taraxerol and the more established proxies of C/N ratio and δ13C of bulk OC were used to investigate OC sources and burial history. A mixing model based on C/N ratios, bulk OC δ13C values and taraxerol concentrations indicates that mangrove-derived OC accounts for 25 ± 14% (mean ± SD) of sedimentary OC burial in (BMB and 16 ± 7% in DZB since 1960 CE. The estimated top 100 cm organic carbon storage was 242 Mg/ha in BMB and 89 Mg/ha in DZB. The carbon sequestration rate in BMB increased from 0.29 Mg/ha/yr to 6.54 Mg/ha/yr after 2012 CE, likely as a response to local mangrove protection since 1981 CE. Compared to the less-protected DZB, mangroves in BMB contributed 31% more to the sedimentary OC pool after mangrove protection, suggesting that mangrove protection has the potential to increase ecosystem health and to increase carbon burial in coastal wetlands. • Taraxerol was used to quantify mangrove OC contribution in sediments. • Mangrove OC contribution increased by 31% due to local protection. • Mangrove OC accounted for up to 25% of sedimentary OC burial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Qilian-Qaidam Orogenic Belt is a component of the western Central China Orogenic Belt, and records a nearly complete evolutionary history of the South Qilian and North Qaidam oceans (branches of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean). However, the timing and process of amalgamation of the microblocks of the western Central China Orogenic Belt and the closure time of the South Qilian and North Qaidam oceans remain uncertain. The Olongbuluke Terrane (OLT), located in the central of the Qilian-Qaidam Orogenic Belt, contains well-developed Precambrian to Paleozoic sedimentary successions that shed light on the tectonic history of these ocean basins. In this paper, detrital zircon U Pb ages combined with ophiolitic, magmatic and high-pressure to ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic records and field investigations, indicate that the OLT was part of a passive continental margin during the early Paleozoic and there was a microblock, named the North Qaidam Terrane (NQT), lying between the Qaidam Block and the OLT. A marked provenance change occurs in the OLT after ca. 517 Ma, which is inferred to record the collision between the OLT and NQT. Later, the North Qaidam oceanic plate subducted under the NQT, and the North Qaidam Ocean closed at ca. 450 Ma. The similar detrital zircon U Pb age spectra of contemporaneous deposit flysch sequences in the Shihuigou Formation (OLT) and the Balonggonggaer Formation (the South Qilian Accretionary Belt) indicates the onset of collision between the OLT and Central Qilian Terrane occurred at ca. 458 Ma. The detrital zircon U Pb age spectra of microblocks from the early Paleozoic strata of the northern Tibetan Plateau share a North Indian affinity, indicating that the closure of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean may relate to the formation of the Gondwanan landmass. • The North Qaidam Terrane may exist between the Qaidam Block and the Olongbuluke Terrane. • The Olongbuluke Terrane collided to the North Qaidam Terrane at ca. 517 Ma. • The onset of collision between the Olongbuluke Terrane and the Central Qilian Terrane at ca. 458 Ma. • The closure of Proto-Tethys may relate to the formation of the Gondwana landmass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedimentological studies of ancient fluvial systems commonly do not consider in detail palaeosols in floodplain deposits. This is the case of the upper Paleocene Esplugafreda Formation (Pyrenees, Spain), a 100–340 m thick alluvial succession, in which palaeosols represent more than 80% of its thickness. This unit closely predates the climate crisis of the Paleocene/Eocene transition, the PETM (Paleocene/Eocene Thermal Maximum). The purpose of this paper is to define the palaeoenvironmental conditions of formation of these palaeopedogenic conditions, and to establish possible changes during the late Paleocene directly prior to the onset of the PETM. This paper analyses the palaeosols in terms of variations in 'aquic conditions', concerning to water saturation, reduction and formation of redoximorphic features in soils. The uppermost part of the Esplugafreda Formation consists of cumulative sandy mudstone palaeosols, laterally associated with sparse channel deposits. Two pedotypes were recognised: Pont d'Orrit and Areny. A mud content >60% (mainly montmorillonite), pedogenic slickensides, wedge-shaped aggregates, mukkara and blow structures indicate that both pedotypes belong to the Vertisol order. They reveal a climate characterised by strong seasonal moisture variations. The Pont d'Orrit pedotype, which dominates the lower portion of the succession, shows reddish brown horizons (Bss), calcareous nodules concentration (Bssk horizon) and scarce redoximorphic features, which indicate a semi-arid climate. The Areny pedotype, which prevails in the upper part, shows a yellow horizon (Bssg) containing goethite and abundant redoximorphic features, which reveal aquic conditions. There is no clear sedimentological evidence that river flooding became relatively more frequent in the upper part of the succession, suggesting that the aquic conditions were caused by an increase in precipitation. This study demonstrates that (i) changes in some pedogenic features within the Vertisols enable interpretation of palaeoenvironmental variations and (ii) this region experienced a changing climate in the late Paleocene, before the onset of the PETM. • Paleocene Esplugafreda Formation displays Vertisols with surface-water gley. • Late Paleocene continental alluvial succession records an increase in precipitation. • Floodplain palaeosols record environmental changes hidden in coeval fluvial deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Martínez and Rojas (2013) published a paper about the relative sea level during the Holocene in Uruguay. The paper of Martínez and Rojas could be handled as an attempt to construct a sea-level curve from data collected from different sources: open-ocean coast, the Río de la Plata coastline and the outlet of Uruguay River. In this sense, several processes were involved: storm effects at open-ocean beaches, the Holocene enclosing of coastal lagoons, storms within the funnel-shaped estuary and the floods of the Uruguay River. However, they included a series of omissions, inaccuracies, errors and critics to our work, that need to be amended, rectified and argued. In response we present a historical background about the research on this issue in Uruguay. We refute the comments about the empirical framework used to construct the first sea-level curve for Uruguay (Bracco et al., 2008, 2011b). We point out that the assumptions on which the curve proposed by Martínez and Rojas (2013) is based are mistaken. In addition, there are limitations of the performed statistical techniques, and errors — mainly systematic — within their formulation. We present evidence that the decrease in sea level from middle Holocene would not have been constant. Instead, a rapid sea level decrease would have taken place by 4300yrBP. Finally, we not only compare our sea level curve with that proposed by Martínez and Rojas, but also we corrected the altimetry errors incurred in their formulation. We conclude that the similarity supports the validity of our curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In their comment, Oviatt et al. (this issue) criticize and dismiss our recent paper (Nishizawa et al., 2013) by arguing that it contains misinterpretations and unreliable radiocarbon ages, and therefore that our findings will confuse many people trying to understand the lacustrine chronology of the Bonneville basin. Their comment, however, does not present evidence to substantiate their criticisms against our paper. Oviatt et al. attribute statements to the paper that are not found in it, and their attempt to re-graph the radiocarbon ages omits 13% of our data. Numeric ages that Oviatt et al. contend are conflicting either are not or are not as problematic as those commenters claim. Comparisons of our lake-interval interpretations with sediment-core data likewise do not show the contradictions that Oviatt et al. claim. In essence, Oviatt et al. seem to advocate complete dismissal of all of our numeric ages and lake-size interpretations regarding MIS 3 on the basis of one tufa age. The following sections identify the incorrect information presented in the comment by Oviatt et al., review the complete set of numeric ages for the contested intervals, and respond to the implication that our late colleague, mentor, and coauthor, Donald R. Currey, did not actively participate in this research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although clypeasteroid echinoids are very common in the shallow water sediments of the Miocene of Sardinia, they have received little attention as far as their origin is concerned. In this paper, three sand dollar dominated mass accumulations from the Lower Miocene of Sardinia are studied and compared in order to understand their genesis and palaeoecology. Two clypeasteroid assemblages were found in the Sarcidano region (Central Sardinia) within the Nurallao Formation (Late Oligocene–Burdigalian). The third sand dollar mass occurrence crops out in the Logudoro region (northern Sardinia) within the Calcari di Mores Formation (Late Burdigalian). These fossil echinoid deposits show a low taxonomic diversity; two assemblages are dominated by the genus Amphiope while the other is dominated by Parascutella with subordinate Clypeaster. An integrated stratigraphic, taphonomic and sedimentological approach allows different genetic mechanisms for these shallow water, sandy, shoreface deposits to be inferred. The origin of these deposits is related to ecological, morphological and sedimentological factors. The sand dollars of Cuccuru Tuvullao (Nuragus) show high degrees of abrasion and fragmentation and represent a multiple in situ reworked accumulation while the assemblage of Duidduru (Genoni), with low abrasion and variously oriented complete and fragmented specimens constitutes an example of a proximal storm deposits. The sand dollar bed of Monte Sa Loca (Chiaramonti) consists of a dense accumulation of well-preserved, mainly concordant-oriented, juvenile and adult specimens and is considered to represent an autochthonous assemblage. This paper explores the role of detailed sedimentological and taphonomic analysis in the palaeoecological and genetic interpretations of the sand dollar beds and points out the widespread distribution and diversification of these echinoids in the Miocene deposits of the Mediterranean area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper, after a short summary on the processes and rates of bioerosion that contribute to the deepening of a tidal-notch profile, some Mediterranean case-studies are presented, where a tidal notch is prevented either from forming or from being preserved. Furthermore, as shown also in a complementary paper, the recent global sea-level rise is preventing the development of new tidal notches in the present mid-littoral zone. This very useful sea-level indicator, of past temporary standstills of the relative sea level in carbonate rock areas, is of great value in assisting interpretations of relative sea-level change in locations where it is preserved. The possibilities of absence of formation or of preservation, however, imply that it should be interpreted carefully before reconstructing local relative sea-level histories. In particular, the lack of fossil tidal notches cannot be relied upon to interpret the absence of past periods of relative sea-level stabilization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fluvial systems in tropical regions are not only the lifeline for modern civilizations there but also form an important continental archive for reconstructing Quaternary palaeoclimates and palaeoenvironments. Tropical rivers drain through a variety of geological and geomorphological settings across the world and have been studied for their hydrology, sediment transport characteristics, facies models, stratigraphic development and flood hazards. This paper presents an overview of the research on tropical rivers globally and identifies major gaps and unanswered research questions. As a part of the IGCP 582 on Tropical Rivers, the participants of this project are continuing to tackle many of these issues. The collection of papers in this special issue is an outcome of this activity and presents new data on processes and alluvial stratigraphy of the tropical rivers from China, India, South America and northern Australia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper deals with the so-called Middle Pleistocene revolution, that is, the transition between the Early and Middle Pleistocene between 1.2 and 0.5million years ago. Our knowledge about biotic changes during this transition has been so far largely based on studies of large mammals. Here we address the issue whether all faunal groups were equally affected. Three datasets have been used: (a) European large mammals present in the Middle and Late Pleistocene, (b) European fossil bird species recorded from the Early, Middle and Late Pleistocene of Europe, and (c) present-day birds currently classified in subfamilies that contain at least one Palaearctic representative species. Each species was allocated to all those geographical areas, climates, habitats in which it is present today; migratory status was also recorded. These datasets serve to undertake a biochronological analysis of mammal and bird groups, thus establishing patterns and processes of extinction and survival at the genus and species levels. The end of the Middle Pleistocene appears to have been a significant boundary in respect of herbivorous mammals, which suffered considerable depletion. In contrast, most genera and species of European birds in the Middle Pleistocene survived into the Late Pleistocene, even to the present day. Furthermore, at least 58% of the Middle–Pleistocene bird species were already present in the Early Pleistocene record. The most successful survivors in the Palaearctic Pleistocene were species from genera that had been the most climatically-tolerant during the late Cenozoic, usually from speciose and widely-distributed genera. We conclude that major transitions in Earth history have leant largely on biochronology and the perceived turnovers of faunas. Boundaries have usually depended heavily on changes to specific taxa of organisms. In this paper we show that what may appear as epic boundaries are largely scale- and taxon-dependent. Their usefulness must therefore be open to question. Here we advocate an individualistic and taxon specific approach in understanding the major ecological changes that have marked the history organisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The Nihewan Basin in North China contains the densest concentration of early Pleistocene Paleolithic sites outside Africa. This paper introduces a new archaeological site complex at Madigou (MDG) that was systematically excavated from 2011 to 2014 in the northeastern part of the Nihewan Basin. The site contains fossils and well-preserved stone artefacts in fluvio-lacustrine sediments. Our magnetostratigraphic results situate the MDG sedimentary sequence in the early Brunhes normal chron and the late Matuyama reverse chron, including the Jaramillo normal subchron. The MDG artifact layers are positioned within the pre-Jaramillo Matuyama chron, with an estimated age of ca. 1.2 Ma, close to the onset of Mid-Pleistocene climate transition. The MDG core and flake technology includes bipolar flaking of siliceous dolomite cobbles, and freehand flaking of chert and brecciated chert block fragments. Mammalian fauna and pollen compositions indicate that the MDG hominins lived in an open habitat varying from lightly-wooded grassland to an ecosystem dominated by sparse steppe near the shore of the Nihewan paleolake. Our combined results in the fields of archaeology, paleontology, palynology and magnetochronology suggest that innovations in technological behavior may correlate with adaptations to high environmental variability during the start of Mid-Pleistocene climate transition. • Nihewan in north China is a key area for research on the early human occupation out of Africa. • Madigou (MDG) is a newly discovered Early Pleistocene site complex in the Nihewan Basin. • Magnetostratigraphic results show that early humans occupied the MDG site ca. 1.2 Ma. • MDG hominins lived in an open habitat and practiced a core and flake technology. • Human adaptations correlate with climate variability during the onset of the Mid-Pleistocene transition (MPT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early Miocene was a period of major palaeogeographic reorganization in the eastern Mediterranean region, during which time the Anatolian Plateau became subaerial and several intracontinental basins intermittently became connected to the Paratethys and Mediterranean seas. In this paper, we analyse early Miocene vegetation and climate using leaf records, palynological assemblages, and fossil wood at 36 localities from western and central Turkey, most of which have precise age control based on radiometric dating and mammal faunal ages. Using the leaf flora of Güvem (Beş Konak, Keseköy), Climate Leaf-Analysis Multivariate Program (CLAMP) analyses and Köppen signatures were employed to infer a palaeoclimate typical of modern laurel forest regions. Based on the palynological records, abundance of various pollen-taxa was used as a measure of openness of vegetation and regional presence of major tree taxa. Most pollen floras are dominated by tree pollen (ranging from 85 to 98%) and indicated widespread afforestation. In the pollen diagrams, shifts in dominance from swamp forest elements (Taxodioideae) to well-drained forests (Pinaceae) indicate changes in lake levels or phases of basin development. Such shifts may have been associated with the development of more xeric forest vegetation. Wood anatomical features such as false tree rings further may indicate seasonal climate. Pollen diagrams and macrofossils reflect zonal and azonal broadleaf and needleleaf forest and extrazonal open vegetation. The latter occurred in areas with shallow soils on volcanic rocks or limestone (e.g. cycads, Dracaena), or coastal areas (herb dominance). Taxonomic composition and biogeographic affinities suggest laurel forest as a major forest biome on well-drained soils and ecotones between laurel forest and broadleaf deciduous forest biomes. A comparison with younger floras shows that these are neither more diverse nor more warmth-loving despite an increase in global temperature (Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum) suggesting bottlenecks during previous (Oligocene) cooler times for warmth-loving taxa. • 36 floras are used to infer biomes and climate during the early Miocene of Turkey. • Dominating plant groups belong to evergreen Fagales and Coniferales. • Herbs are rare except for in coastal areas and extrazonal areas. • Laurel Forest Biome is a major forest biome in the early Miocene of Turkey. • Arboreal Pollen/Non-Arboreal Pollen ratios range between 98% and 85%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial bioerosion, in all its manifestations, is one of the major factors determining the long-term survival of archaeologically and environmentally important artefacts and ecofacts made from mineralised collagen – bones, antler, teeth and ivory. The bone diagenesis literature contains extensive descriptions of different morphologies and classifications of microbial bioerosion – microscopical focal destruction, Wedl tunnels, linear longitudinal, budded and lamellate tunnelling, etc. but the causative agents remain to be discovered. Palaeontologists are in a similar situation when describing ichnofossils where bioerosion is classified by its characteristic morphology and only tentatively assigned to specific causes. In archaeological bones, Wedl tunnels have traditionally been ascribed to fungi but a re-examination of Wedl's original paper and subsequent literature has shown that all the early specimens examined came from aquatic environments and that euendolithic microflora (cyanobacteria or chlorophytes) might have been responsible. These microorganisms are known to tunnel into marine shells. Linear longitudinal, budded and lamellate tunnelling have all been ascribed to bacteria. However, analyses using a combination of backscatter SEM (BSEM) and mercury intrusion porosimetry (HgIP) of bones excavated from terrestrial soils suggest that the various tunnelling morphologies described by earlier researchers are actually all manifestations of a single architecture, the differences arising from the inherent variability of bone microstructure and the hydrology of the burial environment. An examination of the BSEM and HgIP data also indicates that the bacteria responsible may spread through dead bone tissues by expanding the canalicular network (or dentinal tubules in teeth) rather than creating new tunnels. Long-term field burial experiments using de-fleshed cow bone specimens have now demonstrated that bacterial tunnelling develops over decades rather than months as was previously thought, even in warm tropical soils. This has obvious implications for the origin of the bacteria responsible (soil bacteria versus endogenous gut bacteria) since the bone specimens were quickly isolated from gut contents. Although no attempt is made here to identify a specific organism or organisms responsible for tunnelling in terrestrial archaeological bones a tentative model is proposed for how cycles of wetting and drying, or changes in local dissolved oxygen levels, could lead a common gram positive soil bacterium to produce the pattern of bacterial bioerosion seen in exhumed bones. This soil organism may act in a similar way to Staphylococcus aureus which proliferates in living bone (causing osteomyelitis) by infiltrating and enlarging the canalicular network. • Wedl tunnels in bones/teeth from aqueous environments arise from euendolithic microflora, (cyanobacteria or chlorophytes) • Linear longitudinal, budded and lamellate (non-Wedl) tunnels are probably caused by a single gram positive soil bacterium • Isolated, de-fleshed bone buried in topsoil develop non-Wedl tunnels • Bacterial bioerosion of bone is not an early-onset phenomenon but develops over decades • The enteric hypothesis for bacterial tunnelling in ancient bones is unproven and it is more nuanced than previously suggested [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Island Southeast Asia (ISEA) is a key region for the study of human evolution. New fossil and archaeological evidence, from several islands, suggests an Early to Middle Pleistocene colonisation date by hominins. A taphonomic framework, however, such as that exists for Africa, is currently lacking, and taphonomical studies of ISEA vertebrate assemblages are very limited. In this paper, we apply multifocus and confocal microscopy to surface modifications on an Early to Middle Pleistocene avian assemblage from Mata Menge, in the So'a Basin of central Flores, Indonesia, with the aim of characterizing material and testing the relevance of 3D reconstructions to study the taphonomy of ISEA bone assemblages. Our observations document a number of bone surface modifications, including individual parallel grooves, overlapping spindle-like striations, elongated impacts, short composite grooves, and rows of pits. These features suggest that several taphonomic agents were at play during and after the accumulation of the Mata Menge small vertebrate assemblage. We find no unambiguous evidence for the exploitation of birds by the So'a Basin hominins, or for hominins being a significant accumulating agent of avian remains at Mata Menge. However, our work should be seen as preliminary, as direct comparative data on relevant biological agents are lacking. The markedly distinct faunal composition and climatic regimes of many Southeast Asian islands, and the potential use of different tools by hominins, warrants the development of a comprehensive taphonomical framework that is specifically relevant for ISEA. • A taphonomic framework for bone assemblages from Insular Southeast Asia is lacking. • We apply 3D microscopy to an avian bone assemblage from Mata Menge, Flores. • We document a number of intriguing bone surface modifications. • This suggests a role for several taphonomic agents during or after accumulation. • We find no unambiguous evidence for exploitation of birds by So'a Basin hominins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hipparionins were a dominant element of the late Miocene faunas of Europe; however, their biology and ecology remain incompletely understood. In this paper, we explore the pace of life history of different-sized hipparionin horses, using dental histology, and compare it with extant equids. In doing so we consider (i) the size diversity of hipparionins, (ii) their generally smaller size compared to extant equids, and (iii) the allometric coupling between size and life history. In particular, we reconstruct the dental growth in lower first/second molars and in later-formed lower third molars for three hipparionin taxa: two dwarf species (Hipparion periafricanum and H. gromovae), and a larger species (H. concudense). We also analyze dental growth in an extant zebra (Equus quagga) for comparative purposes. Our results reveal that, within each species, there are differences in enamel growth parameters between the first/second molars and third molars. These results illustrate the differences in the developmental timing of these teeth and the existence of a relationship between dental growth parameters with somatic growth. We also find that hipparionin teeth grow at slower rates and tend to erupt later in time than in extant Equus. Dwarf hipparionins, moreover, exhibit lower enamel extension rates than the larger species, but similar formation and eruption times. Considering the link between dental development and life history, these results suggest a slower pace of growth of selected hipparionins compared to extant equids, and a further slower life history than expected for their size in the two dwarf forms. • The life history of Miocene hipparionins is reconstructed using dental histology. • Equid first/second molars grow differently than later-formed third molars. • Hipparionin teeth grew at slower rates and erupt relatively later than in Equus. • Tooth growth in hipparions suggests slower pace of growth compared to extant equids. • The dwarf hipparionins followed slower life histories than expected for their size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the stratigraphic occurrence of n -alkanes (C n) is investigated in three peat cores (Mildred, JPH4 and McMurray) from the ombrotrophic peatlands in northeastern Alberta, Canada, to determine their origin, biomass input, and paleoclimatic significance. The molecular composition of n -alkanes is dominated by the >C 21 medium- to long-chain homologues, with a strong odd over even predominance. A number of n -alkane-based indices (e.g. predominant n -alkane, C 23 /C 29 , C 23 /(C 27 + C 31), P aq , ACL, and CPI), show changing conditions in the organic matter (OM) input from Sphagnum species or terrestrial vascular plants, which increasingly contributed upwards in the peat profiles, and through time. P aq and C 23 /(C 27 + C 31) proxies are similar in the three cores, and allow us to infer vegetation variations that coincide with the climate alternations of the Medieval Warm Period (MWP), Little Ice Age (LIA), and modern Recent Warming (RW). The utilization of ACL-ket and (C 23 + C 25)/(C 27 + C 29 + C 31)-ket proxies, performed in comparison with n -alkane proxies, further support the biomarker-based reconstructions of paleoclimate variations over recent centuries. This study suggests that n -alkane homologues are sensitive to vegetation and climate changes and thus are reliable biomarkers for tracking past shifts in vegetation and climate variations in peat archives. • Determine organic matter source of peat sediments from n -alkane biomarkers. • C 23 /(C 27 +C 31) n -alkane proxy is proposed and can effectively characterize climate changes. • P aq proxy indication could be misleading when the contribution of Sphagnum fuscum to the peat is large. • n -Alkan-2-one proxy is studied to further confirm the biomarker-based reconstruction of paleoclimatic changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, correlation between modern leaf physiognomy and climate in China are examined, to optimize the use of leaf characters as a palaeoclimate proxy. A large dataset was compiled, recording the distribution of leaf physiognomic characters among 3166 native dicot trees species across 732 calibration grids on a county level. Grids span a range of ecological environments (tropical rainforests to alpine shrubs) across humid areas. Thirteen climatic parameters were included for each grid and 22 leaf physiognomic characters were scored for each tree species. The correlation between leaf physiognomic characters and climatic parameters were calculated based on single linear regressions (SLR) and multiple linear regressions (MLR). Results indicate clear spatial distribution patterns, linked to latitude, exist for all leaf characters, with temperature (Coldest Month Mean Temperature, CMMT) and precipitation (Growing Season Precipitation, GSP) being the main climate controls. Moreover, because leaf characters are more closely correlated with Precipitation during the Three Wettest Consecutive Months (P3WET), rather than with Precipitation during the Three Driest Consecutive Months (P3DRY), seasonal variations in rainfall associated with the Asian Monsoon might especially influence leaf physiognomic characters. Closer correlations between leaf physiognomy and climate are seen using MLR compared with SLR; therefore Mean Annual Temperature (MAT) and Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) based on MLR equations provide the most promising basis for palaeoclimate reconstructions in China. • Spatial distribution of 21 leaf physiognomic characters in China is established. • Relationships between leaf physiognomic characters and climatic parameters are established. • The seasonal variations in rainfall under the Asian monsoon climate shapes leaf physiognomic characters. • Paleoclimate can be reconstructed based on such large-scale modern dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors affecting cetacean preservation and distribution in ancient sedimentary successions are not well understood. Actualistic studies have focused on coastal and deep marine examples, and little is known about taphonomic processes occurring within shelf environments. In this paper, we integrate sedimentological, taphonomic and palaeontological data for the cetacean-bearing lower Miocene Gaiman Formation from Patagonia, Argentina, to analyse which factors affected the distribution and preservation of cetaceans in several localities of the Southwestern Atlantic. Facies analysis shows that the formation represents a transgressive-regressive stratigraphic cycle, with palaeoenvironments including coastal, storm-dominated shoreface, inner shelf embayment and open inner shelf. Cetacean remains show preservation styles varying from isolated elements to articulated specimens, with nearly all remains restricted to both embayment and open marine inner shelf settings. Two fossil cetacean assemblages are recognized: Assemblage A comprises small-sized odontocetes dominated by Platanistoidea, preserved mostly in inner shelf embayment deposits; and Assemblage B comprises large-sized odontocetes and mysticetes, dominated by Physeteroidea and Balaenopteroidea, preserved mostly in open inner shelf deposits. Cetacean preservation style is controlled by a combination of palaeoenvironmental conditions, such as energy and sedimentation rate, and by biological factors, such as cetacean body plan and its impact on carcass buoyancy. Ecological factors may also explain the stratigraphic distribution of cetaceans between coastal and oceanic assemblages. This novel integrative and multidisciplinary analyses improves our knowledge of cetacean taphonomy in shelf environments. • Four coastal and shelf marine facies are identified for the lower Miocene Gaiman Formation of Argentina. • Cetaceans are mostly recorded in inner shelf deposits. • Cetacean preservation style is controlled by environmental and biological factors. • Cetaceans distribution is mostly controlled by palaeoecological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shalaii Cave is a closed system cave that contains old and active speleothems. It is located on the northeast limb of the Ashdagh anticline in Sangaw district in northeastern Iraq. The study presents new data on cave monitoring and the geochemistry of stalagmite archives relevant for the palaeoclimate of Iraq. An extensive cave monitoring program was conducted from June 2014 to March 2015, which included analyses of cave air temperature, relative humidity, cave air, dripwater, and modern calcite precipitates on glass slides. Physical parameters were measured monthly and continuously using data loggers and meteorological data; rainwater and dripwater samples were acquired for stable isotope analyses and hydrochemistry analysis. Stable isotopes of oxygen and carbon and absolute dating of U/Th series dating was used to determine palaeoclimate conditions. The microclimate of Shalaii Cave during the studied period (June-2014 to March-2015), the average temperature at the entrance point and inside the monitored cave was 17.05 °C and 20.18 °C respectively. The relative humidity at the entrance point and inside the cave was 66.6% and 100% respectively. Eleven samples of dripwater and five samples of rainwater were acquired for isotope analyses and thirteen samples of dripwater for hydrochemical analysis. From the environmental isotopes analysis (2H and 18O), all water samples fall between the global meteoric water line (GMWL) and Sangaw meteoric water line (SMWL). The precipitation samples plot well above the GMWL. The mechanism of recharge is direct recharge. Two stalagmites (SHC-01 and SHC-02) were sampled from the cave. The first sample (SHC-01) is dated from 1012 ± 42 to 494 ± 29 yr B.P. and the second sample (SHC-02) dates between 8025 ± 38 to 6977 ± 219 yr B.P. Oxygen and carbon isotope results show that there are two climate conditions for palaeoclimate reconstruction in the Sangaw district. Conditions were generally wetter and colder during 8025 ± 38 to 6977 ± 219 yr B.P. than current conditions; from 1012 ± 42 to 494 ± 29 yr B.P., drier and warmer conditions prevail, more similar to today. • Analysis of speleothems is significant for palaeoclimate determination. • This paper presents new data on cave monitoring from Kurdistan Province of Iraq. • Stable isotopes, and cave parameters integrated to understand behavior of the cave • Carbon and oxygen isotopic values are useful for climatic proxies. • Uranium-thorium dating is a good tool for age determination of the speleothems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most reliable proofs of terrestrial ice-free conditions within Stadials is the presence of terrestrial vertebrate fauna that require access to vegetation in the winter, for example sedentary birds such as Ptarmigans and herbivorous mammals in particular. The musk ox (Ovibos moschatus) is an example of the latter; modern-day distributions of this species are limited to areas with low snow accumulations. In this paper we discuss the discovery of musk ox bones in Norway. Recently obtained radiocarbon dates on this material demonstrate the presence of this species 41–35 cal kyr B.P. in southern Norway during late Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS3). Furthermore the dates have implications for the interpretation of climate and environmental conditions; indicating the existence of a small ice cap in the mountains and climate and vegetation supporting a large mammal fauna in South Norway at that time. • Musk ox was distributed in Norway during the middle Weichselian. • Radiocarbon dates show the presence of an herbivore fauna in inland Norway in MIS 3. • Ice free conditions in central Southern Norway ~41-35 cal kyr B.P. • A small ice cap in southern Norway during MIS 3 implies that the most of the Scandinavian Peninsula was Ice-free. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyze the paleoclimatic and paleoenvironmental evolution of Laguna Yema in semi-arid Chaco region of Argentina over the past six hundred years. High resolution multiproxy studies of lake sediments utilize analyses of lithology, mineralogy, geochemistry, palynology, and are constrained by radiocarbon and gamma spectrometry dating. Laguna Yema sediments were mainly composed of well stratified fine sediments (silts and clays), with variable proportions of quartz, clays (illite) and feldspar (microcline and albite). Twelve light and heavy geochemical elements were registered. Most elements (Al, Si, K, Ti, Fe, Rb, Ba, and Br) are associated with illite and albite. Different material transport processes related to the changes in aridity and humidity of the basin were identified using the main mineralogical origins of geochemical elements. Palynological records indicate cycles of contraction and expansion of the lake, with an increase in concentration of Alternanthera aquatica during wet periods (expansion of lake), and an increase in Ambrosia , Poaceae and fern spores during dry periods (contraction of lake). These changes are linked to fluctuations in moisture conditions in the Subandean Mountains and semi-arid Chaco regions, in response to interactions between the South American Monsoon System (SAMS) and the South American Low Level Jet (SALLJ), which send warm and humid air to northern Argentina. In a regional context, the Laguna Yema records are in accordance with the analyses of the temporal and spatial pattern of moisture distribution for the last six centuries. • High-resolution variations of moisture conditions were registered by multiproxy lake sediments studies for the last 553 years. • Dissimilar material transport processes, related to the precipitation, were identified through mineralogy and geochemistry. • The palynological analyses allowed us to complement the paleohydrologic reconstruction in the basin. • The climatic model responds to the interconnection between the South American Monsoon System and South American Low Level Jet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neogene non-marine sedimentary rocks of the Bekaa Valley (Lebanon) are microfossil rich and show minimal lateral facies changes and post-depositional diagenetic alteration across continuous exposures. In this paper, we analyze the sedimentary facies and microfossils of three closely-spaced stratigraphic sections near the town of Zahle. The sedimentary sequence is divided, from base to top, into three intervals: (1) a massive conglomerate unit interpreted as alluvial fan deposits, (2) fossiliferous yellowish marls and limestone interpreted as perennial lacustrine deposits, and (3) an organic-rich marlstone intercalated with volcanic ash horizons interpreted as a palustrine interval representing an overall shallowing sequence. Intervals 2 and 3 contain a diverse microfossil assemblage comprising charophytes, terrestrial molluscs, a freshwater bivalve, ostracods as well as fish and mammal remains. The palaeoenvironmental characteristics and evolution of these lacustrine deposits are inferred through facies analysis and through comparison of microfossil tolerances with the ecological requirements of their nearest living relatives. Results suggest that during the Miocene the Bekaa Valley was occupied by a relatively shallow, stable, oligotrophic freshwater or slightly oligohaline lake that evolved to a very shallow eutrophic lake with a dense palustrine vegetation belt. The palaeolake ultimately regressed to the south due to climatic changes and tectonic stresses leaving the lacustrine deposits exposed in the area of Zahle as an erosional surface. • Miocene rocks of the Bekaa Valley (Lebanon) have been studied from the micropalaeontological and sedimentological viewpoints. • The rock sequence changes from alluvial fan passing upward to lacustrine and palustrine facies. • Lacustrine and palustrine deposits show extremely high content of microfossils. • The Bekaa Valley was occupied by a relatively shallow, stable, oligotrophic freshwater or slightly oligohaline lake. • The lake evolved to very shallow and eutrophic conditions with a dense palustrine vegetation belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeologists and palaeoecologists are increasingly turning to stable isotope analysis (δ13C, δ18O) of fossil bioapatite to examine interactions of human and animal populations. However, relatively few investigations have focussed on the identification of natural variation in comparable modern populations, particularly within the Australian context. In this paper, we present the first modern isotopic reference dataset for Tasmanian bare-nosed wombat teeth (Vombatus ursinus tasmaniensis). Samples for δ13C bioapatite and δ18O bioapatite measurements were recovered sequentially at sub-monthly resolution from all tooth types. δ13C bioapatite showed little variation within a seasonal sinusoidal pattern within the sample set (n = 24 wombats; 35 teeth) due to the homogeneous C 3 distribution of plants in Tasmania. In contrast, δ18O bioapatite profiles varied seasonally, representing time periods of between 0.9 and 2.1 years in 95% of the sample. Significant differences between tooth types were found from intra-individual to inter-regional scales for both dental growth rates and isotopic values. The accuracy of season-of-death assessments differed across the island; those in eastern Tasmania were accurate in all instances whereas those in the west showed substantial inaccuracies. We suggest that this may be due to the elodont form of wombat dentition and the ecologically influenced seasonally varied diet in western Tasmania. As the rate of dental growth is positively correlated with the proportion of coarse vegetation within the diet, this seasonal variation is therefore likely to change how annual isotopic signals are incorporated into the enamel. These results highlight the need to understand the degree of species-specific isotopic variation at a range of scales before applying this technique to archaeological or palaeontological assemblages. • A modern isotopic reference dataset is presented for Tasmanian bare-nosed wombat teeth. • The δ18O profiles were found to record seasonal data spanning a range of 0.9 years to 2.1 years. • Dental growth rates and isotopic values varied from intra-individual to inter-regional scales. • The accuracy of season-of-death assessments was highly variable in western Tasmania. • It is essential to understand the degree of species-specific isotopic variation at a range of scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible crinoids (subclass Flexibilia) likely originated from the cladid crinoid genus Cupulocrinus or one of its immediate ancestors in the Middle to Late Ordovician. A remarkably constant and clade-defining character of flexible crinoids is the possession of three plates in the infrabasal circlet of the calyx. This character was a significant morphological modification for the origin of the flexible clade, resulting from the reduction of the number of infrabasal plates from five plates in the ancestral cupulocrinid. Of 615 museum specimens of Cupulocrinus sp. for which the number of infrabasal plates could be determined, 21 specimens, or 3.4%, displayed a deviation from the normal five infrabasals. Of the aberrant specimens, fifteen have four infrabasal plates, and six have six infrabasal plates. An additional aberrant specimen has five infrabasals, with one significantly reduced in size. Although the number of infrabasals is typically thought to be constant within a species, this trait appears to have been variable in the immediate ancestor of flexible crinoids, in the time period just before the number of infrabasals became fixed at three for the Flexibilia. This paper documents the range of aberrations within the infrabasal circlet of Cupulocrinus and considers the implications for the origin of the flexible crinoids. Unlabelled Image • Flexible crinoids originated during the GOBE from the cladid crinoid Cupulocrinus. • A major flexible synapomorphy may have originated in aberrations of Cupulocrinus. • Cupulocrinus crinoids have a high incidence of aberrations in the infrabasal circlet. • The most common aberration was fusion of two adjacent infrabasal plates. • Other specimens possessed two infrabasal plates within the same ray. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1980s an intense scientific debate has revolved around the hunting capacities of early hominin populations and the behavioral patterns of carnivores sharing the same ecosystem, and thus competing for the same resources. This debate, commonly known as the hunter-scavenger debate, fostered the emergence of a new research line into the Bone Surface Modifications (BSMs) produced by both taphonomic agents. Throughout the following 20 years, multiple studies concerning the action of carnivores have been developed, with a particular focus on the oldest archaeological sites in East Africa. Recent technological advances applied to taphonomy have provided new insight into carnivore BSMs. A newly developed part of this work relies on Geometric Morphometrics (GMM) studies aimed at discerning carnivore agency through the morphologic characterization of tooth scores and pits. GMM studies have produced promising results, however methodological limitations are still present. This paper presents the first combined application of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms and GMM to the analysis of carnivore tooth marks, generating classification rates of 100% between carnivore species in some cases. • A combination geometric morphometrics and machine learning for tooth mark analysis • This statistical approach can obtain up to 100% classification of carnivore agencies. • This presents significant statistical advances in bone surface modification analysis. • New statistical approach for morphological analysis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Immediately after the latest Permian mass extinction, bivalve faunas colonized the Permian-Triassic Transitional Beds (PTTB), especially in littoral clastic facies of South China. The Permian-Triassic (P-Tr) transitional bivalve fauna is composed of holdovers, long-term survivors and newly evolved taxa, and characterized by moderate diversity and high dominance. However, the taxonomy and ecology of this bivalve fauna of littoral clastic facies have not been well understood, especially in comparison with offshore marine records. This paper presents a study on a P-Tr transitional bivalve fauna from five sections of littoral clastic facies in southwestern China, and as such it contributes to a better knowledge of the ecological processes of benthic communities during the P-Tr transition. In total, 20 species in 13 genera of bivalves are identified from the PTTB in the lower part of the Kayitou Formation and the basal part of the Feixianguan Formation of the five sections. Cluster analysis suggests that the transitional bivalve fauna could be further divided into two successive communities (early and late communities), and each is composed of five assemblages. Promyalina – Neoschizodus community (early community) is characterized by presence of holdover taxa, high taxonomic diversity and evenness, and more abundant shallow infaunal suspension feeders. In Pteria community (late community), taxonomic diversity and evenness are much lower, and stationary epifaunal suspension feeders boost at the expense of shallow infaunal suspension feeders compared with the Promyalina – Neoschizodus community. Furthermore, the Promyalina – Neoschizodus community shows a clear spatial variation along environmental gradient from brackish lagoon to shallow marine settings, while the Pteria community is more uniform and homogeneous laterally. The Promyalina – Neoschizodus community in the studied region is of latest Permian age while the Pteria community should belong to the earliest Triassic. Consequently, a significant taxonomical and ecological turnover of bivalve communities occurred between the Promyalina – Neoschizodus community and the Pteria community during the extinction interval in southwestern China. Highlights • A highly diverse P-Tr transitional bivalve fauna colonized the clastic facies • The transitional bivalve fauna is subdivided into two (early and late) communities. • The two bivalve communities differ in taxonomy, ecology and distribution patterns • A significant turnover of bivalve communities occur in the P-Tr transitional beds [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract During the Quaternary several glaciations occurred in the mountain regions around the Mediterranean and, in recent years, new ages have better constrained their timing. However, this is not the case for the Apuan Alps, a high-rainfall mountain chain adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea. Here, in spite of the widespread evidence for glaciers, the complete lack of geochronological information hinders our understanding of glaciation history. In this paper, we utilize speleothem ages to better constrain the timing of these glacial features. We re-examine 293 uranium‑thorium ages from 19 speleothems collected in five caves at different elevations. After a period of very low growth between 160 and 132 ka, the analysed speleothems grew almost continuously to ~75 ka, this period was followed by intermittent growth with lower deposition rate and presence of hiatuses until ~12.5/12 ka. This is consistent with an ice coverage persisting over the Apuan Alps, inhibiting or interrupting the growth of speleothems via the limited availability of groundwater and the scarcity/absence of soils. This interval is much greater than the time interval that has previously been attributed to the existence of glaciers on the Apuan Alps, which has been assumed to be restricted to Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 2. Instead, ice cover probably also appeared in the Apuan Alps during MIS 4. The phase of restarting of growth, which may implies the definitive or substantial glacier melts seem to predate the Holocene. Highlights • Speleothem growth curves used to better constrain the timing of glacial features. • 293 U\Th ages from 19 speleothems collected in five caves at different elevations. • Glacial expansion in the Apuan Alps was not only limited to the MIS2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Aoerban region of central Inner Mongolia, China is an important early Miocene fossil site that contains a diverse mammalian record unrivaled by other Asian sites of similar age. In this paper, we present lithostratigraphic, biostratigraphic, and magnetostratigraphic data from Aoerban Formation to better understand faunal changes between the Xiejian and Shanwangian Chinese Land Mammal ages. With new biochronological constraints, magnetochrons in the Aoerban Formation can be correlated to C6An.2n to C5Cr with an age range of 20.71–16.72 Ma of the Astronomically Tuned Neogene Timescale (ATNTS2012). The strata of the Aoerban region contain a number of important mammalian First Appearance Data, including several morphotypes of deer (Cervidae), horses (Anchitherium), pika (Alloptox), cricetid rodents (Megacricetodon), and possibly the local earliest record of gomphotheres (i.e., the Proboscidea event). Although the ranges for most of these taxa are still poorly known, some of them, alone or in combination, are useful in defining the base the Shanwangian Land Mammal Age. Within this finely calibrated chronologic framework, the faunas of the Aoerban region are important for better understanding mammalian evolution, biogeography, and paleoenvironment. Highlights • The Early Miocene Aoerban site in Inner Mongolia contains a rich vertebrate fauna • A biostratigraphy for each species details their sequential occurrences in strata • A high-resolution magnetostratigraphy permits correlation to Geologic Time Scale. • This chronologic framework helps to integrate fossils and paleomagnetics • Aoerban records first appearances of deers and other mammals in Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The relative sea-level highstands in Thailand from the Mid-Holocene to the present day have been studied in horizontal tidal erosion notches and inside a sea cave in limestone and marble coastal cliffs through 14C dating of rock oysters. Rock oyster ages progressively increase with elevation up from a ~1 m wide living oyster band at the present day sea level and up into the roof of the notch. The oldest age obtained is 6513–6390 cal yr B·P. (Mid-Holocene) for a shell at an elevation of 2.5 ± 0.1 m above present day MSL. However, comparison of the results from different sites shows that oysters of the same age occur at different elevations due to different environmental conditions: ~6000 cal yr B.P. old oysters can be found from between 3.8 ± 0.1 m to 2.5 ± 0.1 m above present day mean sea level. A conservative view of these results from Thailand is that relative sea levels were 2.5 ± 0.5 m above the present sea level during the temperature maximum of the Holocene Climactic Optimum between 7000 and 6000 cal yr B.P. Since then, relative sea levels fell until the onset of the Industrial Revolution. Highlights • This paper uses dead oyster shells in tidal notches to 14C date the mid Holocene sea-level highstand in Thailand. • The distribution of oyster shells at any one site depends on the local environment. • This introduces an error in sea-level estimation of ±0.5 m. • The relative sea level was 2.5 ± 0.5 m above the present level during the mid Holocene between 7000 and 6000 years ago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Pannonian Basin of Croatia is the largest back-arc extensional basin on the European continent, located between the Alps, Carpathians and Dinarides. Syn-rift subsidence started at ~18 Ma and predated the onset of the Miocene Climate Optimum (MCO; 17–14.7 Ma). In this paper, we investigate the evolution of the fluvial-lacustrine palaeoenvironment just prior to the transgression of the Central Paratethys Sea. Studies are based on a 17-m-thick section of the Požega palaeolake in the Southern Pannonian Basin using palaeobiological (mollusks, ostracods, palynomorphs, fish otoliths), mineralogical and sedimentological data. Our results reveal fluctuating freshwater and brackish conditions and a pulsating water budget, which we relate to phases in which the basin was, alternatively, hydrologically open and closed. We infer that the alternating environmental conditions can be best-explained by dry and wet periods, respectively. Droughts produced stagnant conditions, algae overproduction and increased salinity levels, supporting the survival of sporadically invading brackish water species. The wet periods, on the other hand, led to lake highstand episodes, expansion of lake area, and to the widespread development of profundal facies. The lake basin eventually became overfilled and connected through outflowing rivers with the Central Paratethys sea. However, the absence of brackish-marine assemblages in the Požega palaeolake nevertheless indicates that there was no marine water inflow from the Central Paratethys at that time. Highlights • Integrative, multiproxy-study on the palaeoenvironmental history of Pannonian Basin palaeolakes predating marine flooding • Effect of the global warming (Miocene Climatic Optimum) on studied lacustrine environment was evaluated. • Depositional history is related to regional climate fluctuations and to the astronomical forcing by insolation periodicity. • Faunal migration patterns and exchange with the Paratethys and Mediterranean basins were evaluated. • New palaeo(bio)geographic scheme for the early middle Miocene time window of Central and NE Europe is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Lhasa terrane is thought to be a key region for understanding the elevation history of the southern Tibetan Plateau after collision of continental India and Asia in early Paleocene. Stable isotopic studies consistently suggest that the Lhasa terrane had reached its near-present elevation before the Miocene. In this paper we report a plant megafossil assemblage from the Kailas Formation of the Kailas Basin in western part of the southern Lhasa terrane. Our U-Pb dating and magnetostratigraphic correlation show that the studied section of the Kailas Formation ranges from 25.1 Ma to 21.8 Ma in age, and that the fossil flora occurred at 23.3 Ma (latest Oligocene). The uppermost Oligocene Kailas fossil flora is low in diversity and dominated by Populus , Betulaceae and legume. It most likely represents a deciduous, broad-leaf vegetation and suggests a temperate, humid environment with a low to moderate palaeoelevation of 1500–2900 m in the Kailas Basin during the latest Oligocene, based on the co-existing range of the living analogues of the fossil plants. This conflicts with the existence of a continuous, high Gangdese Mountains stretching across the whole southern Lhasa terrane in the late Oligocene. Available evidence appears to suggest strong uplift of the southern Lhasa terrane after the latest Oligocene. Highlights • Plant fossils first reported from the uppermost Oligocene of Kailas Basin, Tibet • Fossils indicate temperate, humid environment and low to moderate paleoelevation. • Strong uplift of southern Lhasa terrane after the latest Oligocene [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The separation of the Indian Plate from the Australia–Antarctic Plate and its accretion to the Eurasian Plate is the key to understanding the evolutionary history and paleogeographic reconstruction of Eastern Gondwana in the Jurassic–Cretaceous. In this paper, zircon U–Pb dating indicates that the Charong Dolerites (~ 142 Ma) are newly recognized Lower Cretaceous magmatic rocks in the central Tethyan Himalaya in southern Tibet. These dolerites are characterized by moderate contents of SiO 2 (49.9–56.9 wt%), high contents of MgO (4.66–9.69 wt%) and TiO 2 (2.20–2.81 wt%), high Zr/Y ratios (7.5–13.1), enrichments in Rb and Th, moderately negative Nb–Ta anomalies, and no Zr–Hf anomalies. Taking into account the narrow range of whole-rock initial 87Sr/88Sr ratios (0.7068 to 0.7086), the negative values of ε Nd (t) (− 2.4 to − 4.1), and the geochemical makeup of the zircons, the Charong Dolerites are akin to continental basalts, indicating that the central Tethyan Himalayan area was in an extensional setting during the Early Cretaceous. Although the Charong Dolerites indicate a relatively high mantle-melting temperature (~ 1469 ± 44 °C), this is still lower than the temperature required for a mantle plume origin. In combination with the Lower Cretaceous mafic rocks in the eastern Himalaya and the coeval volcaniclastic sediments, we suggest that the Charong Dolerites were partial melts of a rising asthenospheric mantle, this process having been triggered by rifting between the Indian Plate and the Australia–Antarctic Plate. This episode of continental lithospheric extension may have led to the opening of a post-Neotethyan oceanic basin that extended between the Indian Craton and the Tethyan Himalaya during the late Early Cretaceous, a feature that is highly significant in paleogeographic reconstructions of Eastern Gondwana. Highlights • Newly recognized Lower Cretaceous magmatic rocks in central Tethyan Himalaya. • The continental basalt and arc affinity of Charong dolerite is due to recycled upper continental crust. • The continent extension along the Tethyan Himalaya was not related to mantle plume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The main island of New Caledonia (NC) is surrounded by the second largest barrier reef in the world after the Australian Great Barrier Reef. The Upper Pleistocene evolution of this barrier reef–lagoon complex offers the opportunity to examine the response of a modern mixed tropical siliciclastic/carbonate system to relative sea-level changes and to better constrain the relative role of lagoon backfilling and paleo-drainage system in sediment transfer across the shelf. This paper mainly focuses on the results of chronostratigraphic and sedimentological interpretations of new seismic, bathymetric and coring data collected in the SW NC lagoon. Several significant points are highlighted from this study and allow the construction of a refined model which includes the evolution of both the SW NC mixed shelf and lagoon. New results show that the NC lagoon has not recorded a reciprocal sedimentation during glacial-interglacial sea-level cycles but a unique mixed regime. Strong contrasts are observed and these depend above all on the two lagoon domains: the outer coral plateau and the inner lagoon depression corresponding to a semi-closed proximal basin which is separated from the plateau by a basement ridge. In the depression, clastic sediments remain dominant from early flooding to highstand stages while carbonate sedimentation continued through time across the coral plateau. This spatial contrast between terrigenous and carbonate deposits was maintained throughout various sea level cycles. Thus, even if spatial segregation is also observed for other examples of mixed shelf environments, the SW NC shelf appears quite unique in comparison to the other mixed systems when considering conceptual models of reciprocal sedimentation. Moreover, the presence of a semi-enclosed lagoon depression allows the preservation of larger volume of terrigenous deposits. This semi-filled geometry of the lagoon is assumed to be the result of several factors: a significant subsidence that offers accommodation for aggrading deposits, evacuation through channels of sediments mobilized during storm events, the tidal currents, and fairweather wave dynamics. Lastly, the inherited morphologic and structures may explain the geomorphic evolution of the "escarpment margin" type of the SW NC rimmed shelf and its differentiation with the opposite SE NC ramp type shelf. Highlights • A semi-filled lagoon geometry • Differs from general conceptual model of reciprocal sedimentation of mixed sliclastic/carbonate system • Strong spatial contrast between clastic inner lagoon depression and outer lagoon coral plateau [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The relationship between ungulate stable carbon isotope values and environmental variables (temperature, relative humidity, precipitation) remains poorly understood. In this paper, we evaluate this relationship for, predominantly, C 3 ecosystems in the winter rainfall areas of southern Africa. In our dataset (290 individuals representing 23 species), δ13C values of ungulate enamel are significantly correlated with mean annual precipitation (MAP), moisture index (MI) and summer aridity index (SAI), variables that also influence the distribution of C 3 /C 4 grasses. Our study confirms previous findings that faunal δ13C values in C 3 ecosystems are most strongly correlated with variables related to precipitation. δ13C enamel values for ungulate browsers are more strongly correlated with a larger number of environmental variables than values for grazers and mixed feeders and vary according to vegetation type. We apply regressions derived from the modern dataset to estimate palaeoclimatic shifts based on δ13C enamel values of browsing fauna at the Pleistocene sites of Hoedjiespunt and Elandsfontein in South Africa. Highlights • Ungulate δ13C correlates best with seasonality of rainfall index SAI, as well as MAP and a moisture index. • Browser δ13C values are correlated with (among others) MAP and MAPE. • Meteorological correlates of δ13C ensembles reveal palaeoenvironments. • Correction for palaeo-pCO 2 has a significant impact on the interpretation of fossil δ13C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Oligocene paleoceanographic changes are useful for assessing future changes in the warming world because the levels of atmospheric p CO 2 in the Oligocene were similar to those expected within the next century. However, the overall Oligocene history is still unclear even though our understanding has been improved by previous studies. In this paper, we review the preexisting hypotheses for the Eocene–Oligocene and Oligocene–Miocene changes as well as the long-term global changes. Based on newly compiled Cibicidoides spp. δ 18O (δ 18O CIB) records, we divide the Oligocene paleoceanographic changes into five phases: an abrupt increase in δ 18O CIB values during the Eocene–Oligocene transition (EOT) (Phase 1), a gradual decrease in the early Oligocene (Phase 2), a long-term slow increase in the early to middle Oligocene (Phase 3), a gradual decrease in the late Oligocene (Phase 4) and an abrupt increase near the Oligocene–Miocene transition (OMT) (Phase 5). These recurring sequential changes in the global-scale δ 18O CIB profile following the EOT are likely not directly connected to the strengthening and stratification of ocean currents during the Oligocene as a result of the unidirectional strengthening of the Antarctic circumpolar current (ACC) and the northern component water (NCW). Instead, we suggest that the strengthened ocean currents contributed significantly to interbasinal differences in δ 18O CIB values. For a more robust explanation of Oligocene long-term δ 18O CIB changes following the EOT, future studies will require high-resolution and more reproducible records of changes in the volume of Antarctic ice and atmospheric p CO 2 , as well as information about the tectonic history. Highlights • Oligocene Cibicidoides spp. δ18O changes show the distinct spatiotemporal differences. • New compilation of Cibicidoides spp. δ18O records for the global average • Oligocene paleoceanography can be characterized by five phased changes. • Late Oligocene warming is clearly identified in the global mean δ18O profile. • Oligocene changes are not compatible only with the rearrangements of oceanic currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In their recent paper, ; Anti-phase oscillation of Asian monsoons during the Younger Dryas period: Evidence from peat cellulose δ13C of Hani, Northeast China, Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 297, 214–222) discuss bulk peat sample cellulose δ13C data from a fen in northeast China as a proxy for East Asian summer monsoon intensity during the Late Glacial period. Based on their own results, cited papers, and an extensive re-interpretation of sedimentological and palynological data from nearby Lake Sihailongwan, construct a hypothesis of contrasting moisture conditions in northern and southern China, with wet conditions in the north during the Younger Dryas period and an anti-phase behaviour of Indian- and East Asian summer monsoon intensity. However, we do not approve of the re-interpretation of our Lake Sihailongwan data by and must strongly reject it. We show here that neither the fen data, nor the Lake Sihailongwan data or any other cited data allow for the sound assumption of an intensified East Asian summer monsoon in northeastern China during the Younger Dryas. The Late Glacial variability of the fen data found by can be easily explained by changes in the plant assemblage down core and thus by the composition of the peat. Furthermore, the use of bulk peat cellulose δ13C data as a precipitation proxy remains unproven for that area. Hence, there is no basis for a model contrasting Indian and East Asian summer monsoons during that period. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Pliocene Epoch, 5.33–2.58million years ago (Ma), was a generally warmer and wetter interval with atmospheric CO2-concentrations at or slightly above modern levels. This paper provides an overview of Pliocene vegetation, sea surface temperatures and climate modelling outcomes. Most prominent changes in Pliocene biome distribution compared to today include a northwards shift of temperate and boreal vegetation zones in response to a warmer and wetter climate as well as an expansion of tropical savannas and forests at the expense of deserts. Faunal analysis techniques and modelling experiments using the Hadley Centre climate model identified significantly higher Pliocene sea surface temperatures at mid and high latitudes of the northern hemisphere with cooling or unchanged sea surface temperatures at low latitudes. Global mean annual surface temperatures (MAT) are estimated to have been 2 to 3°C higher during the Piacenzian (3.6–2.58Ma) than today with a reduced equator to pole gradient. The marine realm during the Pliocene was characterised by a reconfiguration of ocean gateways, particularly the narrowing of the Indonesian Seaway and closure of the Central American Isthmus, which produced essentially a modern pattern of ocean circulation. In the Southern Ocean a warm early Pliocene gave way to late Piacenzian cooling. Proxy data indicate a reduced east to west sea surface temperature gradient in the tropical Pacific during the Pliocene warmth. The Pliocene is one of the most intensively studied geological intervals of the pre-Quaternary. No other warm period in the geological past yields such a unique combination of near modern atmospheric CO2-concentrations, palaeogeography and palaeobiology. However, this paper also identifies data gaps and shortcomings in the reconstruction of Pliocene environments using proxy data and climate models on which future research should focus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract This special issue of Palaeogeography Palaeoclimatology Palaeoecology on "Cenozoic Climate Change in Eastern Asia" contains a series of multidisciplinary studies representing a wide range of research on paleovegetation, sedimentology, clay mineralogy, geochemistry, magnetostratigraphy, and climate modelling. The general significance of these studies is that analysis of terrestrial paleoclimate changes in eastern Asia may offer insights into the effects of Tibetan Plateau uplift, and ultimately the dynamic processes of global change that took hold throughout the Cenozoic. The present volume is Part II of this special issue. The first part of the special issue was dedicated to understanding eastern Asian paleoclimate variation during the Cenozoic by especially evaluating proxy data from geochemistry and climate modeling. Part II includes additional geochemical studies of terrestrial deposits from different regions of eastern Asia as well as climate modeling. Some of these papers focus on the impact or effect of these climatic changes on various floras and faunas in this region. In these studies, the period investigated ranges from the Eocene to the middle Holocene, thus encompassing most of the Cenozoic. Collectively, these studies provide significant new insights into the Cenozoic paleoclimate framework of eastern Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, we build an age model by tuning the G. ruber δ18O curve to the LR04 stack and U1308 benthic δ18O curve with the aid of the high-resolution lightness parameter L*, which mirrors the marine oxygen isotope stages, and we analyse the major palaeoenvironmental events indicated by different proxies, particularly the >250 μm fraction and the 150–250 μm fraction of ice-rafted debris (IRD) at IODP Site U1312. In general, the input of IRD at Site U1312 can be divided into two stages. In Stage 1, ranging from ~2.6 Ma to ~1 Ma, the number of lithic grains was small, the frequency of ice rafting events was low, and the components were diverse and mainly comprised quartz, feldspar and clasts. In Stage 2, ranging from ~1 Ma to the present, the number and frequency of lithic grains considerably increased and were accompanied by detrital carbonate additions derived from the Hudson Strait after ~650 ka. Regarding the IRD features in the study area, the distinctive layers are as follows. IRD did not occur until 2.52 Ma at Site U1312, implying that icebergs discharged by the Northern Hemisphere glaciers bearing lithic grains were involved in pelagic sedimentation for the first time. Interestingly, a monotonic component of debris, magnetite with some ilmenite and quartz, was observed in a single layer at approximately 1.4 Ma. The source of this component may simply be the erosion of volcanic formations in Iceland during the glacial period. Detrital carbonate played an important role in the IRD component after ~650 ka, and the input and frequency of IRD increased dramatically, revealing glacier enhancements and the instability of the Laurentide ice sheet. The IRD characteristics at Site U1312 during MIS 22, MIS 12 and MIS 6 were different from those at other sites near the IRD belt and may be closely related to the European ice sheets. During MIS 10-8, the input of IRD was high, the dominant warm species G. ruber was too rare for the isotope test to be conducted, and the abundance of planktonic foraminifera severely declined, which may indicate that extreme conditions occurred at Site U1312 during this interval. Highlights • We report the IRD records at IODP Site U1312 for the first time. • The ice rafting event was not occurred until MIS 100 (~2.52 Ma) at Site U1312. • We found a monotonous component of debris, magnetite and ilmenite, in a single layer at approximately 1.4 Ma. • The Hudson Strait Heinrich(-like) events first occurred during MIS 16(~650 ka) at Site U1312. • The IRD features of Site U1312 during MIS 22, MIS 12 and MIS 6 were different from those at other sites near the IRD belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This special issue provides new studies in the field of Cenozoic climate change in eastern Asia. The papers in this volume are multidisciplinary in nature and examine a range of topics including paleovegetation, sedimentology, clay mineralogy, geochemistry, magnetostratigraphy, and climate modelling. The findings of these studies demonstrate that analysis of terrestrial paleoclimate changes in eastern Asia may offer insights into the effects of Tibetan Plateau uplift, and ultimately the dynamic processes of global change that took hold throughout the Cenozoic. The second part of this special issue, to be published later, will add a paleoecology component, examining how Cenozoic climate change has impacted floras and faunas in eastern Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Eocene was an interval of climate evolution, when the extreme high temperatures of the earliest Cenozoic gave way to a global cooling trend. Fine-grained lacustrine sediments of Eocene age from northeastern China represent an excellent archive to study long-term environmental and climatic changes at high-resolution. The Huadian Basin is a Cenozoic, fault-bounded basin in Jilin Province, northeastern China. Though small in area, it contains numerous oil shale- and coal-bearing layers, which provide an abundant Middle to Late Eocene palynoflora. Eighty-five palynomorph genera and one hundred palynomorph species were identified in the Huadian Formation, allowing to distinguish 4 palynozones. The nearest living relatives of the recovered palynomorph taxa suggest the presence of subtropical evergreen and deciduous broad-leaved forests during deposition of the Huadian Formation. Using the coexistence approach (CA), we calculated seven paleoclimatic parameters, which indicate a subtropical warm and humid climate with a mean annual temperature above 13.6 °C and a mean annual precipitation of at least 887 mm. However, the climate became cooler and drier during the transition from the lower Oil Shale Member to the upper Carbonaceous Shale Member. Palaeoclimatic data from the various Middle and Late Eocene basins of northeastern China (i.e., the Huadian, Fushun, Yilan, Hunchun and Jishu basins) were compared with data from North American and European basins. Middle Eocene climate in the Northern Hemisphere was generally warm and humid, and the mean annual temperature and precipitation in northeastern China were similar to those in North America, though slightly lower than those of Europe. Similar trends in temperature and precipitation on different continents support the existence of a global Mid-Eocene cooling event. This paper is the first systematic study of Middle to Late Eocene seasonality in the Huadian Basin. Our results show an apparent differentiation in both temperature and precipitation between summer and winter, supporting the view that the East Asian Monsoon was established in northeastern China already during the Middle to Late Eocene. This Middle and Late Eocene monsoon was likely driven by the development of Pacific trade winds and an alternating, seasonal high- and low-pressure system over Siberia. The climatic changes observed in our dataset, especially the precipitation changes, appear to have played an important role in controlling oil shale formation in the Huadian Basin. A warmer and more humid climate, with abundant precipitation and high subsidence rates, formed a deeper Huadian depositional lake. High productivity and stable stratification provided the abundant organic matter and favorable preservation conditions necessary for oil shale accumulation. Highlights • The Middle-Late Eocene palynoflora were firstly systematically studied in Huadian Basin. • We quantitatively estimated the Middle-Late Eocene climate based on CA method. • A globally cooler phase was recognized in the Middle Eocene. • Climate seasonality in the Middle-Late Eocene supports the EAM was already prevalent in NE China. • Changes in climate, especially precipitation, play an important role in oil shale formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Floral communities in terrestrial habitats such as steppes are highly sensitive to regional climate changes. Here, we generated carbon and nitrogen isotope profiles for soil organic matter (SOM) in the Weinan loess-paleosol section in order to investigate changes in floral communities on the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP) and their relationship to climate variation since 75 ka. δ13C SOM at Weinan ranges from −23.6 to −18.0‰ and δ15N SOM ranges from +3.4 to +5.5‰. Modeling based on the δ13C SOM record suggests that the proportion of C4 plants (%C4) has varied from lower during cold intervals (with minima of 24–32% at 73.1 ka, 20.9 ka (LGM), and 0.6 ka) to higher during warm intervals (with maxima of 62–64% at 53.0 ka and 8.2 ka). The δ13C SOM and δ15N SOM profiles are strongly correlated (r = +0.82; p(α) <0.001), suggesting that the N-isotope composition of SOM was also largely controlled by inputs of C4 versus C3 plants, consistent with known patterns of N-isotope variation among modern plants. The %C4 profile exhibits significant covariation with reconstructed mean annual temperatures (MAT) (r = +0.42; p(α) <0.001), mean annual precipitation (MAP) (r = +0.42; p(α) <0.001), and summer monsoon intensity (r = +0.50; p(α) <0.001), suggesting that paleovegetation was controlled by each of these climate variables to a degree. Comparing the Weinan record to SOM profiles across the CLP region, we identified three zones of varying monsoonal influence, with the East Asian Summer Monsoon (EASM) exerting the strongest influence on the southeastern margin of the CLP, and the East Asian Winter Monsoon (EAWM) greater influence on its northwestern margin. This paper provides new insights into deciphering paleovegetation patterns and their links to paleoclimate change on the basis of paired C- and N-isotope records. Highlights • Analysis of δ13C and δ15N of soil organics in Weinan section, Chinese Loess Plateau • δ13C SOM and δ15N SOM profiles exhibit strong correspondence since 75 ka • Both C- and N-isotope compositions controlled mainly by inputs of C3 vs C4 plants • Paleovegetation type strongly influenced by summer monsoon intensity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The destruction and damage of fossils in palaeontological collections through pyrite (FeS 2 ) oxidation is a major and well-known issue. In this paper, we investigate the impact of this reaction on the conservation of Xiaheyan fossil entomofauna (Tupo Formation; Late Carboniferous; Ningxia, China) through three steps. First, we examined and characterised the elemental and mineralogical composition of newly excavated specimens, of museum specimens, and of weathering products at the outcrop (using SEM-EDX, Raman microspectroscopy and XRD). Second, in order to determine the potential reactivity of newly excavated fossils, we performed artificial ageing experiments, a technique recently applied in palaeontology that can offer valuable insights into long-term conservation of fossils. Finally, we designed and applied a protocol aiming at forcing the formation of gypsum outside the fossils so as to preserve the fossil integrity, namely ‘crystallisation pits’. Our data demonstrate that the depositional environment at Xiaheyan was rich in sulphur and devoid of oxygen, with perhaps oxygen-rich microenvironments, which led, respectively, to the precipitation of framboidal pyrite and of primary iron oxyhydroxides. The further chemical palaeo-weathering led to an extensive oxidation of pyrite in the outcrop, resulting in the precipitation of secondary iron oxyhydroxides, and of jarosite and gypsum, both sulphates. The low abundance of iron oxyhydroxides and the poor diversity of sulphates, compared to analogous localities, indicate a distinct weathering scenario, with a persistence of acidic water and an extensive leaching leading to the maintenance of only insoluble sulphates. Despite the extensive in situ pyrite oxidation, artificial ageing experiments demonstrated a remaining weak degradation potential. Gypsum (a calcium sulphate) is the near-exclusive efflorescence to develop within artificially aged fossils, contrary to the most commonly encountered efflorescence on pyritised fossils, namely iron sulphate. This instance can be attributed to the complete mobilisation of iron through iron oxyhydroxide precipitation and the availability of calcium ions induced by the dissolution of calcium carbonates present on Xiaheyan outcrops during palaeo-weathering. Unfortunately, the recourse to crystallisation pits failed to prompt gypsum crystallisation. We further suggest preventive storage conditions and prospects for investigation on the gypsum precipitation process at work, notably the role of organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bösken et al. (2017) aimed at contributing to the environmental variability of the Gravettian population in ‘southeastern’ Europe during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) with an interdisciplinary study at the Upper Palaeolithic site Ságvár Lyukas Hill (Hungary). However, the classification of the site as Gravettian is erroneous because the LGM archaeological record of eastern central Europe is composed of findings of another culture, the Epigravettian. This short comment on the paper of Bösken et al. (2017) presents the archaeological chronology between 34 and 16 kyr BP with a focus on the Gravettian–Epigravettian dichotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental changes related to forest expansion and later to agricultural development and deforestation during the Holocene in Europe have strongly shaped herbivore distribution and habitat selection, leading to species extinction. In this paper, we examine, through dental microwear textural analysis, the foraging habitats, dietary flexibility and niche partitioning of large herbivores (100 to 1000 kg) including two bovids (European bison Bison bonasus and aurochs Bos primigenius ) and two cervids (moose Alces alces and red deer Cervus elaphus ). The study focuses on northeast (NE) and south central (SC) Europe during three periods of the Holocene: Neolithic (6500–3500 cal yrs BP), Roman Period and Middle Ages (~2000–450 cal yrs BP) and Recent times (1963–2014). Our study highlights differences in diet between species only in the Neolithic SC Europe. This may have resulted from diversified habitats and dietary niche separation in SC Europe. The absence of differences in NE Europe may suggest more homogeneous habitat conditions in combination with lower densities of large herbivores in forested habitats. Analysis shows that during the Neolithic, in the bison diet there was more herbaceous monocotyledons in SC Europe than in NE Europe. We also found temporal changes in microwear texture variables for the bison in SC Europe suggesting a more herbaceous diet in the Neolithic than during the Roman Period and Middle Ages. However, neither spatial nor temporal differences in microwear texture variables were found in the aurochs. Thus, the diet of the European bison has likely changed, which may indicate a greater plasticity that promoted survival in refuge habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]