Updated: 07 June 2006

Australian Stratigraphic Units Database - Stratotypes

Definitions
Reference
Using the Stratigraphic Units Database
Stratigraphic Nomenclature
Enquiries and feedback

Definitions

The International Stratigraphic Guide gives the following definitions of various kinds of stratotypes:

Holostratotype: the original stratotype designated by the original author at the time of proposing a stratigraphic unit or boundary.
Parastratotype: a supplementary stratotype used in the original definition by the original author to illustrate the diversity or heterogeneity of the defined stratigraphic unit or some critical feature not evident or exposed in the holostratotype.
Lectostratotype: a stratotype for a previously described stratigraphic unit selected later in the absence of an adequately designated original stratotype (holostratotype).
Neostratotype: a new stratotype selected to replace an older one which has been destroyed, covered, or otherwise made inaccessible.
Hypostratotype: a stratotype proposed after the original designation of the holostratotype (and parastratotype) in order to extend knowledge of the unit or boundary to other geographic areas. It is always subordinate to the holostratotype.

Reference

SALVADOR, A. (Editor), 1994, International Stratigraphic Guide: A guide to stratigraphic classification, terminology, and procedure. International Union of Geological Sciences and the Geological Society of America, Boulder, Colorado, 2nd Edition, 214 pp.

[back to top]

Using the Stratigraphic Units Database

Stratigraphic Nomenclature

Enquiries

Online Enquiry form / Feedback form

For more information contact: stratnames@ga.gov.au

[back to top]