The long-chain alkenones present in the shallow sediment of Hotong Qagan Nu
r Lake in China are reported. According to the similarity of compositions a
nd distributions of the alkenones determined commonly in the sediment secti
on to those of marine sediment, it is reasonably referred that the alkenone
s might also originate from Prymnesiophyceae. In addition, the parameter U-
37(k)' of alkenone is in positive correlation to delta(18)O values of authi
genic calcium and magnesium minerals. This indicates that the parameter U-3
7(k)' of long-chain alkenone is also available to indicate paleoclimate of
high-salinity alkaline lake.