Silicification of trace fossils in carbonates; evidence from Permian Kaibab Formation, southwestern Utah
Silicification in carbonates, particularly silicified trace fossils, has received relatively little previous study. Chert comprises a significant percentage of the upper Fossil Mountain Member of the Kaibab Formation, a Permian epicontinental limestone. Distribution and origin of this chert were studied from outcrops in southwestern Utah. The origin of much of this chert is believed to be as silicified Thalassinoides burrows. Field evidence for trace fossil silicification includes (1) silicified cylindrical tubes with Y-shaped branching patterns as well as hollow tubes, and (2) polygonal box-work patterns of tubes. In addition, brachiopods, bryozoans, and abundant specimens of the sponge Actinocelia maendrina Finks are also silicified. Recognition of silicified trace fossils in carbonates provides a different approach to the study of early diagenetic silica precipitation. These silicified trace fossils also represent new information on bioturbation in ancient carbonates, a subject that has, until recently, been relatively unstudied.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Southern California, Los Angeles (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 6027182
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-8905132-
- Journal Information:
- AAPG (Am. Assoc. Pet. Geol.) Bull.; (United States), Vol. 73:4; Conference: AAPG-SEPM-SEG-SPWLA Pacific Section annual meeting, Palm Springs, CA, USA, 10 May 1989
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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