Late Pliocene sea–surface temperature data–model comparisons: A historical perspective.

The evolution of PlioMIP  (Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project) marine data-model comparisons (DMC) is closely coupled with the historical development of PRISM (Pliocene Research, Interpretation and Synoptic Mapping) paleoenvironmental reconstructions. Chronology, correlation, mode of reconstruction, availability and type of proxy estimates, boundary condition choices, and model development, have all played significant roles in refining DMC. A brief history of the collaboration between disciplines provides insight into the comparison of proxy-based sea surface temperature estimates with model results. In particular, I stress the importance of large-scale gradients and regional indicators of climate over locality-based comparisons. Lessons learned from both the data and modeling communities may offer guidance for future PlioMIP3 DMC efforts.