Long-chain alkenones in Hotong Qagan Nur Lake sediments and its paleoclimatic implications

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.