Numerical correlation of speleothem stable isotope records using a genetic algorithm

The correlation of geological records is commonly based on subjective and arbitrary interpretation by a researcher. Geological data are usually collected as a series on a depth scale, and then chronologies of the profiles are constructed. The correlation of geological records based on matching quality indicators requires an efficient method of searching for the best position. GenCorr is a software based on a genetic algorithm, for correlation of records with or without accompanying chronological control. Where their age information is available, points on both records may be moved in the range limited by the age uncertainties. GenCorr has been developed by the authors in Borland RAD Studio 2007 environment. The authors tested the impact of matched record length, noise level, sampling resolution, or additional linear components and hiatuses on the correlation results using artificial test data. Finally, the genetic algorithm was applied to stable isotope records obtained from two stalagmites collected from the Demianova Cave System (Low Tatras, Slovakia). The results show that the genetic algorithm correlation method is similar to that used in pattern recognition by the human eye without prior knowledge of the ages. The genetic algorithm is able to correlate in multidimensional space and is free from human biases, but we accept that there are also occasions where additional expert opinion may be also important. GenCorr can be run on every PC with MS Windows operating system, the package was not tested in Mac environment. GenCorr is available as a freeware from the authors. For downloading, please contact: dzeq@twarda.pan.pl. •We tested genetic algorithm as a possible correlation tool.•Genetic algorithm is able to find the best position based on a numerical indicator.•Genetic algorithm uses for correlation only isotopic information.•Genetic algorithm is able to correlate in multidimensional space.