Role of micromorphology in paleopedological research

The current role of micromorphology in paleopedological research is reviewe d. Examples are discussed which illustrate its value in the initial identif ication of paleosols and in their interpretation leading to detailed paleoe nvironmental and pedosedimentary reconstructions. Problems concerned with t hin-section sampling, description and interpretation are highlighted. These critical issues need to be confronted if the technique is to continue enjo ying such high regard amongst specialist and non-specialists alike. (C) 199 8 Published by INQUA/Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.