Paleoclimate Reconstruction in the Amazon Basin Based on Speleothems and Tree Ring Proxies

This project focuses on reconstructing past climate in the Morona Santiago Amazonian province of Ecuador, a region sensitive to climate variability. The main objective is to acquire historical climate data using two key terrestrial proxies: cave mineral formations (stalagmites) and tree growth rings (dendrochronology). The methodology for tree rings involves selecting suitable tropical species, macroscopic analysis, periodicity determination, and confirmation via radiocarbon dating (C-14). For stalagmites, cave exploration and sampling will be conducted, including in-situ measurements of pH and EC, installation of temperature loggers, and collection of rainwater samples for stable isotopes. Laboratory analysis of stalagmites will cover splitting, polishing, and isotopic analysis (δ18Oc, δ13C) using Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS), as well as trace element analysis (LA-ICP-MS) and Uranium-Thorium (U-Th) dating. Integrating this data will provide enhanced tools for climate change decision-making in the region.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To carry out a Paleoclimate Reconstruction in Morona Santiago Province, Amazon Basin, based on land proxies from stalagmites and tree rings.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Sustainable water and soil management