S.A. DUB (IGG UB RAS)

On methods of stratigraphic division of the Precambrian. A view from the Phanerozoic

Principles of the Precambrian stratigraphic subdivision are considered. It is shown that it is impossible to solve problems of the Upper Precambrian stratigraphy in Russia and adjacent countries by exclusively regional investigations. Precambrian fragment of the General Stratigraphic Scale (GSS) should have a chronostratigraphic framework, like the Phanerozoic Scale. The necessity of concentrating the efforts of specialists aimed primarily at improving the Precambrian GSS as a reference point for all researchers in the regions is substantiated. Particular attention is paid to the discussion of establishing the Riphean/Vendian boundary.
Keywords: Upper Precambrian, chronostratigraphy, stratotype, limitotype, GSSP, Riphean, Vendian.