A total of 1826 samples were taken from Cores 165-998A-1H through 36X (339.4 meters below seafloor [mbsf]), 165-999A-1H through 61X (566.1 mbsf), and 165-1000A-1H through 59X (553.2 mbsf). Smear slides were prepared using standard techniques. Nannofossils were observed in a transmitted light microscope under cross-polarized light at a magnification of 1500 x. These observations were used to determine Neogene and Quaternary datums in three holes (Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4).
The relative abundance of nannofossil species in the Neogene sections of Holes 998A and 999A was obtained based on detailed assemblage counts. Three hundred specimens were counted in most of the samples; in few samples with sparse nannofossils, 100-200 specimens were counted. Only quantitative assemblage data from Hole 998A are listed in Appendix B (back pocket). The overall preservation of nannofossils was described by using one of the following three designations: G = good preservation (fossils lack evidence of dissolution or overgrowth); M = moderately good preservation (fossils slightly etched are often observed); and P = poor preservation (most fossils are deeply etched or dissolved).
Florisphaera profunda, a small nannofossil species present throughout the late Neogene and Quaternary, was not counted because this species is extremely abundant. The length of specimens of Reticulofenestra was measured using an eyepiece micrometer. The size distribution patterns of Reticulofenestra specimens are summarized in Figure 5 and Figure 6.