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Selenium isotope evidence for progressive oxidation of the Neoproterozoic biosphere

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  • Philip A. E. Pogge von Strandmann

    (Institute of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University College London and Birkbeck, University of London
    Bristol Isotope Group, School of Earth Sciences, Bristol University)

  • Eva E. Stüeken

    (University of Washington)

  • Tim Elliott

    (Bristol Isotope Group, School of Earth Sciences, Bristol University)

  • Simon W. Poulton

    (School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds)

  • Carol M. Dehler

    (Utah State University)

  • Don E. Canfield

    (NordCEE, University of Southern Denmark)

  • David C. Catling

    (Bristol Isotope Group, School of Earth Sciences, Bristol University
    University of Washington)

Abstract

Neoproterozoic (1,000–542 Myr ago) Earth experienced profound environmental change, including ‘snowball’ glaciations, oxygenation and the appearance of animals. However, an integrated understanding of these events remains elusive, partly because proxies that track subtle oceanic or atmospheric redox trends are lacking. Here we utilize selenium (Se) isotopes as a tracer of Earth redox conditions. We find temporal trends towards lower δ82/76Se values in shales before and after all Neoproterozoic glaciations, which we interpret as incomplete reduction of Se oxyanions. Trends suggest that deep-ocean Se oxyanion concentrations increased because of progressive atmospheric and deep-ocean oxidation. Immediately after the Marinoan glaciation, higher δ82/76Se values superpose the general decline. This may indicate less oxic conditions with lower availability of oxyanions or increased bioproductivity along continental margins that captured heavy seawater δ82/76Se into buried organics. Overall, increased ocean oxidation and atmospheric O2 extended over at least 100 million years, setting the stage for early animal evolution.

Suggested Citation

  • Philip A. E. Pogge von Strandmann & Eva E. Stüeken & Tim Elliott & Simon W. Poulton & Carol M. Dehler & Don E. Canfield & David C. Catling, 2015. "Selenium isotope evidence for progressive oxidation of the Neoproterozoic biosphere," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 6(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:6:y:2015:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms10157
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10157
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