Recognition and Analysis of Beddingand Sediment Fabric Features

Abstract

The first step in any investigation of a lacustrine paleo-archive is the detailed visual de- scription of the core or outcrop section. This careful visual description accompanied by core photography will usually form the basis for further studies and, most importantly, for developing an analytical strategy for the investigation. In this chapter we give an account of the further methods available for extending the visual description of bedding features from the macroscopic to the microscopic. A number of case studies are included to illustrate the various scenarios possible and strategies for identifying the origins of fabric elements. The purpose of this chapter is to take the reader sequentially through the step by step core description methods normally employed in the study of lacustrine sediments. While many of the techniques and examples given have been employed on marine sediment cores and reflect the experience of the authors, the methods are equally applicable to lacustrine sediments. This compilation builds on previous work by the authors to which the reader is also referred including Pike & Kemp (1996) and Dean et al. (1999).