Correlating middle Cretaceous palynological records from the Canadian High Arctic based on a section from the Sverdrup Basin and samples from the Eclipse Trough

摘要: Quantitative palynological analyses undertaken on the middle Cretaceous Hassel Formation of Sverdrup Basin and reputedly equivalent rocks from Eclipse Trough, about 850 km east, provide convincing evidence that they are coeval Late Albian–Cenomanian age. We base this conclusion statistical definition two palynomorph populations occur in both spot samples Trough a measured section at Hoodoo Dome, Ellef Ringnes Island central Basin, which demonstrate broad correlation to previously reported palynofloras North America. By applying ordination techniques, we range variability composition reputed within defined for Formation, Dome. Comparable proportions dicotyledonous angiosperm pollen characterize localities, but diversity relative abundance lower Canadian Arctic deposits than more southern Middle Albian–Cenomanian-aged To explain this, propose restricted continued dominance gymnosperms ferns into Cenomanian reflect relatively cool continental climate conditions or barriers migration, such as Western Interior Seaway.