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Thermal alteration of the Earth's oldest fossils

Author

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  • Józef Kazmierczak

    (Institute of Paleobiology, Polish Academy of Sciences)

  • Barbara Kremer

    (Institute of Paleobiology, Polish Academy of Sciences)

Abstract

Microscopic carbonaceous structures found in ancient rocks could provide clues to early life on Earth if they turn out to be genuine fossil microorganisms. Here we show that thermal alteration of microbial remains embedded in a mineral matrix may significantly change their original morphology and produce structures that resemble those of what are claimed to be the Earth's oldest fossils1. These observations may shed light on the controversy2,3 that surrounds these microfossils from the 3,465-Myr-old Apex Chert of the early Archaean Warrawoona Group in northwestern Australia.

Suggested Citation

  • Józef Kazmierczak & Barbara Kremer, 2002. "Thermal alteration of the Earth's oldest fossils," Nature, Nature, vol. 420(6915), pages 477-478, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:420:y:2002:i:6915:d:10.1038_420477b
    DOI: 10.1038/420477b
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