Selenium isotope evidence for progressive oxidation of the Neoproterozoic biosphere

Philip A. E. Pogge von Strandmann (), Eva E. Stüeken, Tim Elliott, Simon W. Poulton, Carol M. Dehler, Don E. Canfield and David C. Catling
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Philip A. E. Pogge von Strandmann: Institute of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University College London and Birkbeck, University of London
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

Nature Communications, 2015, vol. 6, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: 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.

Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10157

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