Discrete Biochronological Time Scales

The object of this book is to explain how to create a synthesis of complex biostratigraphic data, and how to extract from such a synthesis a relative time scale based exclusively on the fossil content of sedimentary rocks. Such a time scale can be used to attribute relative ages to isolated fossil-bearing samples. The book is composed of 10 chapters together with several appendices. It is a totally revised version of Biochronological Correlations published in 1991 and includes various new chapters. The book offers a solution for the theoretical problem of how fossils can be used to make reliable quantitative stratigraphic correlations in sedimentary geology. It also describes the use of highly efficient software along with several examples. The authors compare their theoretical model with 2 other relevant studies: probabilistic stratigraphy and constrained optimization (CONOP).

Presents the summary of quantitative construction of discrete paleontological timescales Offers numerous applications for paleontologists and geologists Includes models related to important mass extinctions Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Inhalt

Biochronological Scales.- Graph Theoretical Approach.- Interval Graphs and Stratigraphic Contradictions.- The UA Method and the Uagraph Program.- Transgressive-Regressive Cycles and Benthic Foraminifera.- Comparison Between the Uagraph and Conop Programs.- Lower Jurassic Radiolarian Biochronology and Evolutionary Rates.- Calibrating Biochronological Zones with Geochronology.- Statistical Pseudo-Improvements of the UA Method.- Conclusions.