Research Project
Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
We performed detailed studies on Archean microfossils collected from multiple localities in the 3.0 Ga Farrel Quartzite (FQ) in the Pilbara Craton, Western Australia, with referring to the 3.4 Ga Strelley Pool microfossils (stored in Nagoya University). The PI has discovered some very important specimens including large lenses with single to several objects inside, which provide constraint on biological affinity (eukaryotic) of lenticular microfossils. Also high resolution SEM analyses revealed that sheet-like appendage (flange) is composed of fine meshwork, which suggests the possibility that the structure is constructed and maintained by cytoskeleton. Also carbon isotopic values of individual microfossils were determined, revealing that their data are distinct from the isotopic values of the matrix carbonaceous particles. Concentration of phosphorous and nitrogen in the structures was also confirmed. With these results, the biogenicity of FQ microfossils is firmly established.
All 2015 2013
All Journal Article (3 results) (of which Peer Reviewed: 3 results) Presentation (5 results)
Geology
Volume: 41 Issue: 6 Pages: 651-654
10.1130/g34055.1
Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta
Volume: 112 Pages: 66-86
Volume: ？
