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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Dataset Open Access |
| Language: | en |
| Published: |
PANGAEA
2016
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.868806 |
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Table of Contents:
- Hydrocarbon seeps harbor copious chemosynthesis-dependent life, the traces of which are preserved in the fossil record within authigenic carbonates. These environments are mostly characterized by seepage of methane-rich fluids, yet numerous crude oil-dominated seeps have been discovered in recent years. Oil seepage has a profound influence on the local fauna, but recognizing such seeps in the rock record remains elusive. This study presents new geochemical data that will allow for a more confident identification of ancient oil-seep deposits. Geochemical data from modern and ancient seep limestones reveal that oil-dominated seep carbonates are enriched in rare earth elements and uranium compared to their methane-dominated counterparts. These trace element patterns have the potential to serve as a basis for an improved understanding of the adaptation of chemosynthetic life to oil seepage, and to better constrain the marine carbon cycle in the geologic past.