CIRCUM-ANTARCTIC PALAEOBATHYMETRY: ILLUSTRATED EXAMPLES FROM CENOZOIC TO RECENT TIMES

Abstract

We use a revised set of seafloor spreading isochrons and updated plate tectonic reconstructions to produce palaeo-age and basement depth grids for the Southern Ocean. The palaeo-depth maps illustrate the evolution of the ocean basins (widening and deepening) and oceanic gateway development surrounding Antarctica. We provide examples of palaeo-basement depth profiles at selected times between 45 Ma and the present across the Tasman Gateway and Drake Passage. The digital grids provide improved boundary conditions for palaeoceanographic circulation models as well as for backtracking sediments from ODP drilling. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.