Problems and principles of Tertiary and Quaternary Stratigraphy

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Abstract
Summary: Stratigraphy, both in western Europe and in the Far East, began on the principle of the so-called percentages method. Applied to long-range correlations, however, and hence to the establishment of a valid worldwide succession, this method raises great problems. The use of index fossils for the same purpose makes too high demands on these fossils, which are suitable only for local use. Genera-assemblages of worldwide occurrence may establish correlations, but for a few stratigraphical series only. The use of bio-series may be more successful. Provisional morphogenetic investigations of the foraminiferal genus Lepidocyclina look promising. The period is too short for the evolution of organisms to serve as a basis for a detailed subdivision of the Quaternary. The only reliable basis seems to be climatic fluctuations, and recent progress in palynological research has enabled these fluctuations to be traced in non-glaciated regions. The use of provisional local geological names in Quaternary stratigraphy has been advocated; the succession drawn up for the Pleistocene of the Netherlands is an example. Persistent attempts to force a worldwide succession into a Günz-Mindel-Riss-Würm frame will only increase the present confusion. A great problem in Quaternary stratigraphy is the distinction between a “glacial” and a “cool oscillation”, an “interglacial” and an “interstadial”.

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