PROGRESS IN RESEARCHES ON SEA-LEVEL CHANGES IN SOUTH CHINA SEA SINCE MID-HOLOCENE

The researches on sea-level changes in South China Sea since mid-Holocene during the past several decades have been comprehensively reviewed. Some disputes and hot questions are mainly discussed and the conclusions indicate that high sea level in mid-Holocene reached maximally 2~3 m above present mean sea level during 7.0~5.5 kaBP, and the following sea level performed oscillating and fell to present mean sea level, in phase of the Holocene temperature to some extent,suggesting their close relationship. The modern rising rates of sea level in South China Sea resulting from observation of satellite altimeters and tide gauges, are up to 3.9 and 2.4 mm/a respectively, both slightly higher than the corresponding contemporaneous global mean rates. Additionally, some shortages and problems about sea-level researches are listed, and preliminary improving measures concluded include:(1)using more precise dating technology to minimize errors; (2)carrying out researches on tectonically stable locations; (3)adopting more precise sea-level indicators such as microatolls and tubeworm encrustations.