Systematic yet enigmatic depth distribution of the world's modern warm-water carbonate platforms: the 'depth window' |
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| Authors: | A Vecsei |
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| Institution: | Geologisches Institut, Universität Freiburg, Albertstraße 23B, 79104 Freiburg, Germany |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACT The world's modern warm-water carbonate platforms are large-scale topographic features. This paper shows that the distribution of platform depths is systematic. The depths to the seafloor of most isolated banks and continent-attached platforms, and the depths to the lagoon floors of most atolls, are all less than 70 m below present sea-level, so that there is a 0–70 m 'depth window'. The depth distribution reflects the platforms' evolution and its controls. The relation of this distribution to Quaternary sea-level fluctuations and sedimentary dynamics sheds light on these controls. |
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