As part of our continuing organic geochemical studies of sediments recovered by the Deep Sea Drilling Project, we have analyzed the types, amounts, and thermal alteration indices of organic matter in samples collected from the California continental margin on Leg 63. Some of the samples were frozen core; others were canned on site. Canned samples were analyzed for gas content using methods described by Mclver (1972). Our main objective was to see if the changes in surface circulation that had occurred through time off the California coast were reflected in changes in the type and amount of organic matter accumulating on the sea floor.

Supplement to: Gilbert, Deborah; Summerhayes, Colin P (1981): Distribution of organic matter in sediments along the California Continental Margin. In: Yeats, RS; Haq, BU; et al. (eds.), Initial Reports of the Deep Sea Drilling Project (U.S. Govt. Printing Office), 63, 757-761