Stratigraphy, Depositional Environments, and Palaeogeography of the Koobi Fora Formation

Abstract Studies of the geology of the Koobi Fora deposits have been under way for nearly two decades. Over that span of time, a great deal of information has accumulated, and many arguments have been raised and laid to rest. In recent years our understanding of the Koobi Fora sequence has changed dramatically through geochemical correlation of volcanic ashes, improved age control by reliable isotopic age determinations, continued study of the stratigraphical features of the deposits themselves, and, perhaps most importantly, secure correlation of the Koobi Fora sequence with those of the lower Omo Valley and along the west side of Lake Turkana. As a result, we are now able to outline our knowledge of the sequence at Koobi Fora in far greater detail than was possible only a few years ago, and to present a summary of some important revisions to earlier discussions.