Paleogeographic Maps, a Status Report
Published 1990 · W. Hay, C. Wold, C. A. Shaw
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Abstract
The factors which most critically affect paleogeographic maps are: 1) the spatial resolution of the data base; 2) the map projection; 3) the initial fits and rotations of the major continental blocks; 4) the number of plates rotated independently for the reconstruction; 5) the number of terranes shown; 6) palinspastic reconstruction of continental margins and interiors, and palinspastic reconstruction of terranes; and 7) the reference frame. Because refinements arecontinually being made as new data becomes available and incorporated into the reconstructions, it is impossible to set specific rules to be followed. Most importantly, text accompanying the reconstructions should describe the factors listed above. The basis for paleogeographic features, such as the shoreline, topography and paleobathymetry should also be explicitly stated. The sea level position used to plot the shoreline, whether at maximum transgression, some intermediate or average position, or at regression, should be clearly stated.