Isotopic signatures of mercury contamination in latest Permian oceans

• DOI: 10.1130/g38487.1
• Publication Date: 2016-11-09T12:52:17Z
• Authors: Stephen E. Grasby; Wenjie Shen; Runsheng Yin; James D. Gleason; Joel D. Blum; Ryan F. Lepak; James P. Hurley; Benoit Beauchamp
• Keywords: Mercury

Abstract Sedimentary records from the northwest margin of Pangea and Tethys show anomalously high Hg levels at latest Permian extinction boundary. Background δ202Hg values are consistent with normal marine conditions but exhibit negative shifts coincident increased concentrations. isotope mass-independent fractionation (Δ199Hg) trends volcanic input in deep-water environments. In contrast, nearshore environments have Δ199Hg signatures enhanced soil and/or biomass input. We hypothesize that signature represents an overall global increase this is overwhelmed locations due to terrestrial sources. High-productivity regions may experienced stressed ecosystems loading.