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Unique Preservation of Fossil Ghost Fish in the Green River Formation

by Amanda L Meacham

Institution:	Loma Linda University
Year:	2017
Keywords:	Earth Sciences; Geology; Physical Sciences and Mathematics; Green River Formation; Fossils; Paleoecology; Marine animals - fossil; Ghost Fish beds; Microbial mat activity; Carbonaceous compressions; Fossil fish preservation
Posted:	02/01/2018
Record ID:	2159989
Full text PDF:	http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/403

Abstract

Two beds with unique fossil fish preservation occur within the predominantly evaporite-rich, fossil poor Angelo Member in the Green River Formation in Fossil Basin, Wyoming. These two beds, termed Ghost Fish beds, contain fossil fish that are two-dimensional carbonaceous compressions with no bone and detailed soft part preservation. These beds were measured and samples were collected from 8 quarries and 19 additional locations. Stratigraphic sections and fossil content were recorded at each quarry location. Analysis included XRD, stable isotope, XRF, TOC, and SEM analysis. Results were inputted into tables, graphs, and spatial maps to show trends, interpret the paleoenvironment, and examine the unique preservation. Interpretation of the results suggests freshwater entering the lake from the SW region of the study area during the UGF bed deposition. This research suggests that the unique style of preservation found in the Ghost Fish beds is the result of high alkalinity, salinity, and microbial mat activity. Advisors/Committee Members: Nick, Kevin E., Gaines, Robert R., Leggitt, V. Leroy.