TRACE-ELEMENTAL DISTRIBUTION IN OSTRACOD VALVES, FROM SOLUTION ICPMS AND LASER ABLATION ICPMS ANALYSES TO MICROPROBE MAPPING

We have come a long way from the first attempt at analyzing the trace element composition of ostracod valves. Cadot and Kaesler’s work using a single point microprobe was long ignored by people who preferred to analyse single calcitic valves by solution ICPMS. In-vitro experiments helped us understand the relationship between the shell chemistry and physico-chemical conditions in which ostracods formed their valves.

Parallel to these investigations were the examinations of the ostracod valves which we now know consist of 3 distinct layers; a very different mode of calcification from single-celled foraminifera.

The recent use of laser ablation ICPMS and microprobe mapping of ostracod valves from distinct phylogenetic groups highlights the heterogeneity of trace element distribution in ostracod valves. Recent findings now confirm the original findings of Cadot and Kaesler.

This presentation is to pay tribute to Rick Forester, an innovative researcher of the ostracod and with a superb flair for ’things geochemical’ and with a very critical scientific mind.