Late Pleistocene and Holocene palaeoecological reconstruction of Lake Texcoco (Basin of Mexico) based on its ostracod record

Abstract

AbstractWe present a palaeohydrological reconstruction of Lake Texcoco over the last 32.7 cal ka based on ostracod records consisting of two species, Candona patzcuaro and Limnocytherina axalapasco. Overall, the presence of these species suggests that Lake Texcoco was highly saline and experienced occasional desiccation periods. Moreover, this work helps improve our knowledge of L. axalapasco, an endemic species of central Mexico; their eggs could remain dormant‐resting to survive long dry periods. Four ostracod zones reflect the main environmental changes that occurred during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene. From 32.7 to 30 cal ka bp (Zone 4), Lake Texcoco's water levels were stable and alkaline with saline conditions. Zone 3, representing the period from 30 to 18 cal ka bp, includes a period of enhanced precipitation (greatest abundance of C. patzcuaro) from 30 to 26 cal ka bp. From 26 to 18 cal ka bp, an abundance of L. axalapasco reflects shallower and more saline conditions. The Last Glacial Maximum was characterised by cold and humid conditions with enhanced runoff, especially at 25.3, 21.9, and 20.7 cal ka bp. Zone 2 (18–7 cal ka bp) represents the driest period on record. Finally, shallow and saline lake conditions have prevailed over the last 7 cal ka (Zone 1).