Enhanced terrestrial runoff during Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 on the North Carolina Coastal Plain, USA

Abstract. A global increase in the strength of hydrologic cycle drove an flux terrigenous sediments into ocean during Cenomanian–Turonian Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2) and was important mechanism driving nutrient enrichment thus organic carbon burial. This change is primarily known from isotopic records, but average data do not tell us anything about changes at any particular location. Reconstructions local can help understand role regional shifts precipitation these trends. The proto-North Atlantic basin one epicenters enhanced burial OAE2, so constraining particularly this region; however, few records exist. Here, we present two new OAE2 Coastal Plain North Carolina, USA, recognized with calcareous nannoplankton biostratigraphy isotopes. We use / nitrogen ratios to constrain relative contribution marine terrestrial matter; both cores find elevated vascular plants beginning just before continuing through event, indicating a locally strengthened cycle. Terrigenous decreased brief isotope values as Plenus excursion; it then increased remained latter part OAE2. Total (TOC) reveal relatively low inner shelf, contrast black shales open ocean. Organic content on shelf appears offshore direction, highlighting need for middle outer shelf.