Lithodemes in the new millenium: a bibliographical survey

The term “lithodeme” was proposed 30 years ago for the purpose of crystalline rock stratigraphy. However, there are inconsistencies in its understanding. For example, it is unclear whether it is suitable to apply this term to layered intrusions or not: different specialists/organizations offer different approaches. A bibliographical survey of the geological literature published after 2000 demonstrates that the term “lithodeme” is used too rarely, although its use for magmatic and metamorphic rocks is well balanced. In addition 65% of all papers considering lithodemes deal with North and South America. Moreover, some specialists employ genesis and age when they delineate lithodemes, whereas other do not. If modern geology really still needs the lithodemic approach, researchers should work towards reaching consensus on what the term “lithodeme” means, and they should also devote effort to promote this approach internationally.