Geochemistry of trace elements in calcite from Ostracodes: Principles, limitations and possibilities of a method for quantified reconstruction of paleo-environments

Ostracods are aquatic microcrustaceans with calcitic, bivalved carapaces. R ecent studies highlighted relationships between trace-element (mainly Sr an d Mg) contents in ostracod valves and the temperature and chemistry of the host. water. These reiationships were successfully applied by several autho rs for quantification of paleoenvironmental reconstructions. This paper rev iews the basics of the geochemical study of the ostracod shells and briefly describes new factors that play a role in the uptake of trace-elements and make the interpretation of the trace-element contents in fossil valves mor e complex. More geochemical studies through monitored laboratory cultures w ill provide better controls on ostracod shell chemistry and thus a better e fficiency of the method for the quantification of paleoenvironmental and pa leoclimate changes.