North Pacific Late Miocene correlations using microfossils, stable isotopes, percent CaCO3, and magnetostratigraphy

A multidisciplinary approach to stratigraphy based on magnetostratigraphy, stable isotopes, percent CaCO3 and microfossils provides a framework for paleoclimatic and paleoceanographic reconstruction of the equatorial and North Pacific. A high-resolution biochronologic time scale has been achieved through integration of diatom, radiolaria, coccolith and planktic foraminifer datum levels with direct or indirect correlations to the paleomagnetic time scale. Over 70 datum levels have been identified between 12.5 and 5 Ma from low and middle latitudes resulting in an unprecedented time control. This high-resolution biostratigraphic control combined with stable-isotopic and percent CaCO3 analyses permits identification of regional as well as global paleoceanographic events. ?? 1982.