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Biomarkers in the Precambrian: Earth’s ancient sedimentary record of life

April 1, 2022

The hydrocarbon remnants of biologically diagnostic lipids inform our understanding of Earth’s early ecosystems, particularly where morphological vestiges of biology are absent or ambiguous. Yet both the analysis and interpretation of ancient biomarkers require scrutinous approaches. Here, we describe the status quo of Precambrian biomarker geochemistry with four examples that highlight current challenges and opportunities.

Publication Year 2022
Title Biomarkers in the Precambrian: Earth’s ancient sedimentary record of life
DOI 10.2138/gselements.18.2.93
Authors Christian Hallmann, Katherine L. French, Jochen J. Brocks
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Elements
Index ID 70238573
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Central Energy Resources Science Center