Abstract
This study reassesses the reliability of magnesium to calcium (Mg/Ca) ratios as palaeotemperature proxies in Atlantic limpet shells. Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), the authors analysed modern and archaeological shells of Patella vulgata, Nacella deaurata, and Nacella magellanica. Elemental maps and isotope data confirm that Mg/Ca ratios reliably reflect sea surface temperature (SST) when intra-incremental heterogeneity is controlled. The study shows strong correlations between Mg/Ca ratios and δ18O values and recommends LIBS-based mapping as a cost-efficient screening method to improve the temporal resolution and reliability of palaeoclimate reconstructions.
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