A new paleotemperature method from biotic proxy indices - An example from the Upper Paleozoic paleogeographic and paleotectonics reconstructions of Siberia

Abstract

Abstract A new method for quantitatively assessing paleotemperatures in the Upper Paleozoic of Siberia based on the taxonomic composition of biota is proposed. This method utilizes a large data set on the geographic distribution and ecology of various biotas in Siberia and surrounding regions from the newly developed PaleoSib database. We developed new tools to analyze the paleotemperatures of the Siberian Platform (Angarida) shallow-water deposits during the Late Paleozoic. The obtained results clarified the dynamics of the paleoclimate and paleo-tectonics of this time in the region. Some lithological indexes were integrated with biotic ones to strengthen the paleotemperature analyses. A wide geologic community dealing with sedimentary geology and paleo-tectonics can utilize the method and the tools. The method can be used by anyone regardless of his or her skill level from students to professionals. We plan to integrate this method into the Paleobiology Database.