Applications of biomarkers for delineating marine paleoclimatic fluctuations during the Pleistocene

Abstract

Reports on the use of n-alkanes and n-alkanols, carboxylic acids, alkenones, alkyl alkenoates and alkenes, and sterols as palaeoclimatic indicators. The characteristics of the biomarkers are outlined, along with mode of occurrence, global distribution and what they can reveal. Biomarker abundance can also be statistically assessed to reveal any past climate trend. A discussion of future biomarker potential and scope concludes the chapter. -R.Gower