Temporal and spatial dynamics of paleo-redox conditions across the
Triassic-Jurassic boundary
Abstract
The end-Triassic mass extinction was among the most severe biotic crises
of the Phanerozoic. It has been linked with the global expansion of
marine anoxia, and the prolongation of these conditions within epeiric
seas has been proposed as a cause for the suppression of biodiversity
during the Hettangian. Testing this interpretation is complicated by
spatially heterogenous patterns of local marine redox conditions within
the western Tethys European Epicontinental Shelf. In this study we
assess the redox state within this region by focusing on two carbonate
successions in Italy. Based on I/Ca ratios, these locations record
distinct local background redox conditions, with Val Adrara showing
notably lower pre-extinction oxygen saturation state compared to Mount
Sparagio. To better explain these differences, δ44Ca and trace element
analyses were used to identify the roles of mineralogical and diagenetic
effects on the preservation of primary redox signals. A framework of
multiple elemental (Sr, Mg, Mn, I) and isotopic (δ13C, δ18O, δ44Ca,
δ238U and δ34SCAS) ratios was developed to identify factors that could
influence carbonate geochemistry. Both sites probably retain some
primary variation in δ238U, δ34SCAS and I/Ca, but they are likely also
shaped by changing mineralogy and early diagenetic conditions which
complicates interpretations of the seawater composition. Where the redox
signals are largely preserved, we interpret differences in
pre-extinction I/Ca between the two sites to reflect distinct local
oxygenation states. Model simulations show that ocean circulation and
hydrological regime could have been important drivers of spatial
heterogeneity in paleo-redox conditions across the European
Epicontinental Shelf.