Paleobathymetric reconstructions of the SW Barents Seaway and their implications for Atlantic–Arctic ocean circulation

Abstract Unravelling past, large-scale ocean circulation patterns is crucial for deciphering the long-term global paleoclimate. Here we apply numerical modelling to reconstruct detailed paleobathymetry-topography of southwestern inlet Barents Seaway that presently connects Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Subaerial topography was likely enough block Water from entering in earliest Eocene (c. 55 Ma). The water may have entered middle 47 Ma) as observed major basin subsidence, but paleotopographic highs east hindered connections between two From Oligocene 33 until onset Quaternary 2.7 Ma), shallowing regional shelf uplift blocked Seaway. Our results imply Fram Strait remained sole gateway into Ocean since its opening Miocene Quaternary.