A paleopedologic and ichnologic perspective of the terrestrial Pennsylvanian landscape in the distal Appalachian Basin, U.S.A.

摘要: Abstract The Conemaugh Group of southeastern Ohio contains numerous ichnofossil-bearing paleosols in both the lower Glenshaw and upper Casselman formations, which were deposited during Kasimovian Gzhelian (305–301 Ma) along distal edge Appalachian basin. This study examined small-scale ( Twenty four stratigraphic sections measured from ten sites Athens County, thirty identified described. Detailed field descriptions allowed differentiation distinct pedotypes; one Formation three Formation. Pedotype (GPT) is a Vertisol that formed on proximal to floodplain. pedotypes represent Entisols/Inceptisols (CPTI) Alfisols (CPTII) Vertisols (CPTIII). All types contain evidence alteration by post-pedogenic processes such as ‘drowning’ migrating river channels or rising sea level gradual transition alluvial subenvironment another result channel migration. Eight morphologically ichnofossils observed including rhizoliths, lined unlined, vertical subhorizontal shafts, chambers, sinuous burrows with without bioglyphs, general burrow mottling. These occur assemblages form unique ichnocoenoses within each pedotypes. They produced various plants, arthropod detritivores, carnivores, herbivores well amphibians early reptiles temporary permanent members complex soil ecosystems. Pedogenic properties combined ichnofossil diversity, abundance, distribution increase understanding complexity Late Pennsylvanian ecosystems provide details variations due short-term autogenic changes environments. Although broad, regional studies across 10 2 –10 3 kilometers are important, small scale over less than 1 km needed understand effects localized hydrology, topography, organisms, sedimentary formation biodiversity. Consideration these also vital when attempting interpret global-scale aspects environment climate paleosols.