Palynofacies evidence of dysoxia and upwelling in the Turonian of the Sergipe Basin, Brazil

This paper presents the integrated results of palynofacies and geochemical analyses in Turonian carbonate strata from the Sergipe Basin, Brazil. Forty-three outcrop samples were analyzed from sections of the Cotinguiba Formation in the Votorantim and Rita Cacete quarries. Our results allow for the characterization of the organic matter and interpretation of the environments of deposition. Together with the existing geochemical data, the results allow for recognition of oxic and dysoxic intervals and inferences pertaining to local oceanographic conditions to explain these environmental changes. The palynofacies groups are dominated by marine palynomorphs and amorphous organic matter (AOM), with minor amounts of terrigenous palynomorphs and phytoclasts. The total organic carbon (TOC) and δ13C ratio are directly correlated with the dominant palynofacies elements, particularly AOM. The upper section in Rita Cacete quarry has the most complete data set, and the TOC, δ13C and marine-derived AOM in this section tend to decrease upsection and serve to differentiate the oxic and dysoxic intervals. The sections also contain abundant, low-diversity dinoflagellate assemblages composed primarily of Trichodinium boltenhagenii, Cribroperidinium? muderongense, Canningia reticulata and Xenascus plotei. The palynofacies and dinoflagellate assemblages indicate deposition in shallow marine to outer neritic environments. The dysoxic events are recognized by an increase in TOC and δ13C, high amounts of AOM, an abundance of the low-diversity dinoflagellate assemblages and the lowest amounts of terrestrial components. The changes in marine productivity seem to be related to periods of low-intensity upwelling, which likely decreased the levels of dissolved oxygen in the basin.