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Comment on "Revised paleoaltimetry data show low Tibetan Plateau elevation during the Eocene"
Paul J Valdes1, Ding Lin2,3, Alex Farnsworth4
1School of Geographical Sciences and Cabot Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1SS, UK. p.j.valdes@bristol.ac.uk.
This study challenges the Eocene Tibetan Plateau elevation estimates. We argue that previous conclusions were based on flawed climate models and data comparisons, suggesting a higher plateau.
Area of Science:
- Paleoclimatology
- Geological Sciences
- Climate Modeling
Background:
- Previous research suggested a low Eocene Tibetan Plateau elevation (<3000m).
- This conclusion was based on oxygen isotope proxy data and climate model simulations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the proposed low elevation of the Eocene Tibetan Plateau.
- To identify and address flaws in the methodology used in prior studies.
Main Methods:
- Critical analysis of isotope-enabled climate model simulations.
- Re-examination of oxygen isotope proxy data interpretation.
- Comparison of modeling outputs with geological evidence.
Main Results:
- Identified significant failings in the climate models used.
- Found discrepancies in the comparison between proxy data and model simulations.
- The methodology used to support a low Eocene plateau is considered inadequate.
Conclusions:
- The previously suggested low Eocene Tibetan Plateau elevation is not supported by robust evidence.
- Flaws in climate modeling and data interpretation undermine prior conclusions.
- Further research with improved methods is needed to determine Eocene Tibetan Plateau elevation.
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