The Palaeoproterozoic era (2500-1600 Ma) is a critical period of Earth history, with dynamic evolution from the deep planetary interior to its surface environment. Several lines of geological evidence suggest the existence of at least one pre-Rodinia supercontinent, named Nuna or Columbia, which formed near the end of Palaeoproterozoic time. Prior to this assembly, there may have been an older supercontinent (Kenorland) or perhaps only independently drifting supercratons. The tectonic records of amalgamation and dispersal of these ancient landmasses provide a framework that links processes of the deep Earth with those of its fluid envelope. The sixteen papers in this volume present reviews and new analytical data that span the geological record of Palaeoproterozoic Earth. The volume is useful as a reference book for students and professional geoscientists interested in this important period of global evolution.

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SP318 Earth Accretionary Systems in Space and Time
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ISBN: 978-1-86239-278-6
Publication Date: July 2009
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Accretionary orogens form at convergent plate boundaries and have been active throughout Earth history. They provide an important constraint on the initiation of horizontal motion of lithospheric plates on Earth and have been responsible for major growth of the continental lithosphere through the addition of juvenile magma.

SP321 Extending a Continent: Architecture, Rheology and Heat Budget
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In controlling continental break-up, extensional tectonics is one of the most fundamental processes that shape the face of our planet. Extension and break-up is key to understanding the evolution of continents, and the origin of sedimentary basins and their hydrocarbon potential, as well as the thermo-haline circulation in the oceans and thus global climate.

SP308 Geodynamic Evolution of East Antarctica: A Key to the East-West Gondwana Connection
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This volume presents reviews and new research from localities across East Antarctica, especially from Dronning Maud Land to Enderby Land, where the geological record preserves a history that spans the Archaean and Proterozoic.

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