Megascopic carbonaceous compression fossils from the Neoproterozoic Bhima Basin, Karnataka, South India

• DOI: 10.1144/sp366.5
• Publication Date: 2012-03-02T07:20:55Z
• Authors: Mukund Sharma; Yogmaya Shukla
• Keywords: 01 natural sciences; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

Abstract An abundant well-preserved assemblage of annulated carbonaceous compressions and impressions has been recorded from the intra-cratonic argillaceous sedimentary sequence Bhima basin in south India. Impressions Hulkal Formation belong to forms similar previously reported Sinosabellidites huainanensis , Protoarenicola baiguashanensis Pararenicola huaiyuanensis China. This paper discusses diversity, systematics, affinity, biostratigraphical potential global significance these remains. The proposed worm-like body fossil affinity for organisms, based on similarity with Chinese assemblage, reinterpreted as pre-Ediacaran epibenthic organisms. Fresh investigations Indian such specimens reveal their close proximity algal affinity. occurrence marker events, phosphatization, presence complicated remains absence stromatolites carbonate sequences basin, collectively indicate a Neoproterozoic, possibly pre-Sturtian age Group.