Agnostoid tribolites are proving to be among the best indices for global correlation of Cambrian strata. A taxonomic monograph of the Middle Cambrian agnostoids of North America and Greenland is in progress, and is an indispensable foundation for concurrent synthesis of a global agnostoid zonation. Continuing taxonomic a study will be based on numerous agnostoid collections already in hand, new collections to be obtained, and many collections of the Canadian, Greenland, and United States geological surveys. Collections from a representative, agnostoid-rich, Middle Cambrian section in central China are being studied for comparison. Arrangements have been made to begin a similar biostratigraphic investigation of poorly known agnostoid faunas in Argentina. Results of the project are expected to be of value to a working group of the Cambrian Subcommision, whose goal is the establishment of a meaningful biochronological division of Cambrian time. An ancillary project is the continuing description and analysis of associated fossils of extraordinary interest, especially soft-bodied animals and non-calcareous algae.
