Ostracod-based transfer function shifting to a broad prospect in palaeolimnology and palaeoclimate

The ostracod-based transfer function is a common method in palaeolimnology and palaeoclimate research, serving as an interpreter from fossil record to palaeoenvironment history. However, migration application of the transfer function remains challenging, and it is characterized by the use of the threshold of the transfer function and restriction of the understanding of palaeolimnology and palaeoclimate. Here, we constructed transfer functions for water salinity, alkalinity, and Ca conditions employing ecological information about four key species in the Yamdrok-tso basin. The prediction power of the transfer functions and their migration application in the Pumoyum Co were evaluated. The results show that the prediction power of the transfer functions was maintained according to the statistical indices of the cross-validation (R², root mean square error, R_jack², and root mean square error of prediction). The palaeoenvironment records constructed for the Pumoyum Co using transfer functions are in good agreement with the lake depth, mean grain size, ostracod diversity, and stalagmite δ¹⁸O records, indicating the considerable applicability of the transfer function in different ecosystems. Our study provides fresh insights for the application of transfer functions to palaeoenvironment reconstruction, enhancing the comprehension of palaeolimnology and palaeoclimate.