Sédimentologie et cyclicités de la limite Dévono-Carbonifère

Is there a link between astronomical forcing and mass extinctions in the ocean during the Devonian-Carboniferous transition and the Lower Carboniferous?

The Devonian-Carboniferous boundary event (DCBE), also known as the Hangenberg Crisis, was one of Earth's major mass extinctions, marked by widespread oceanic anoxia, sea-level fluctuations, and global cooling. This event, followed by smaller anoxic events like the Lower Alum Shale Event (LASE) and mid-Tournaisian carbon isotope excursion (TICE), reshaped marine ecosystems and global climates. Understanding the timing and causes of these anoxic conditions is crucial. This project examines the Chanxhe and Anseremme records in Belgium, as well as the Drewer section in Germany, a key geological site, using advanced techniques like portable XRF and spectral analysis. By studying the cyclicity of sedimentary deposits this research project aim to link orbital cycles with oceanic anoxia and determine the pace of environmental changes. This work could shed light on how astronomical factors, such as Earth’s orbital shape, contributed to ancient climate crises, with broader implications for understanding planetary climate dynamics.

Participants

Anne-Christine da Silva

Amine Talih

Jarno Huygh

Dhoha Boukhalfa

Michiel Arts

Michel Crucifix