Major element analysis in sedimentary rocks from the Middle Mississippian–Middle Pennsylvanian La Joya section in Sierra Agua Verde, Sonora, Mexico
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Abstract
The Sierra Agua Verde is a significant paleontological site in northwestern Mexico. While numerous stratigraphic and paleontological studies have been conducted in this area, a lack of geochemical research has hindered a complete understanding of its paleoenvironmental context. Our study primarily focused on examining the fossiliferous limestone from the Middle Mississippian to Middle Pennsylvanian periods in the region. By utilizing X-ray fluorescence (XRF), we measured major element oxide concentrations in bulk rock limestone samples. This analysis helped us infer the paleoenvironmental conditions through elemental ratios and correlation coefficients. The samples displayed calcium enrichment, with some also exhibiting high magnesium/calcium (Mg/Ca) ratios. The silicon/aluminum (Si/Al) ratio, akin to Si/Ca, was interpreted as indicative of productivity, potentially attributed to the presence of siliceous sponges. Nevertheless, elevated silicon values could also result from continental weathering processes. Peaks in elemental values apart from calcium may indicate episodes of riverine influx onto the carbonate platform where these sediments settled. We related the curve of major elements to previous stable isotope studies to determine if detrital element input aligned with global or regional climate conditions. Our hypotheses were corroborated by statistical analysis, yielding dendrograms that highlighted associations between elements such as Al and K, as well as Fe and Ti (Morisita Index). This could suggest the precipitation of minerals like orthoclase/illite and ilmenite. Moreover, the increasing divergence between Mg and Mn in comparison to the Al-K clade, along with Si, might explain the strong Fe-Ti connection, reflecting the tendency of both Mn and Ti to form oxides. The co-precipitation of Si and P might also be linked to productivity episodes. However, the Si content could indicate either quartz input or biogenic silica contribution.
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