Recognition of paleobiochemicals by a combined molecular sulfur and isotope geochemical approach

Science. 1992 Apr 17:256:358-62. doi: 10.1126/science.256.5055.358.

Abstract

Study of organic matter in immature sediments from a Messinian evaporitic basin shows that consideration of structures, modes of occurrence, and carbon isotopic compositions of free and sulfur-bound carbon skeletons allow identification of biochemical precursors. Detailed information concerning biotic communities present during deposition of sediments can be retrieved in this way. Moreover, unprecedented biochemicals were recognized; these extend the horizon of biomarker geochemistry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Archaea
  • Carbon / chemistry
  • Carbon Radioisotopes*
  • Dinoflagellida
  • Eukaryota
  • Euryarchaeota
  • Geology / methods*
  • Lipids / chemistry
  • Paleontology / methods*
  • Plants
  • Soil
  • Sulfur / chemistry*

Substances

  • Carbon Radioisotopes
  • Lipids
  • Soil
  • Sulfur
  • Carbon