The Quaternary: Its character and definition

Abstract

The Quaternary is characterised by the development of widespread glaciations in mid-northern latitudes. As a chronostratigraphic term it has attracted vigorous debate. The Quaternary, as accepted by the International Union for Quaternary Research and proposed by the International Commission on Stratigraphy, begins at 2.6 Ma within a 2.8-2.4 Ma interval of profound change in Earth's climate system. The base of the Gelasian Stage at 2.588 Ma offers an existing global stratotype section and point to define the base-Quaternary, and this will necessitate lowering the base of the Pleistocene from its current 1.8 Ma to that of the Quaternary to maintain hierarchical order This proposal recognises the distinctive qualities of the Quaternary, complies strictly with the hierarchical requirements of the geological time scale, and respects the historical and widespread current usage of the term Quaternary.