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Acritarch-like Microorganisms from the 1.9 Ga Gunflint Chert, Canada
A L González-Flores1,2, J Jin1, G R Osinski1,2
1Department of Earth Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Astrobiology
|April 20, 2022
Summary
This study reveals ancient protists from the late Paleoproterozoic era. Advanced imaging techniques identified unique microstructures in 1.9 Ga fossils, suggesting early eukaryotic life.
Area of Science:
- Paleontology
- Microbiology
- Geology
Background:
- Fossil evidence for early eukaryotic life (older than 1.8 billion years) is debated due to poorly preserved microstructures.
- The ~1.9 billion-year-old Gunflint Chert microbiota, though well-preserved, exhibits cellular degradation hindering structural analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the micro- and ultra-structures of ancient microfossils.
- To provide morphological evidence for the presence of early protists in the late Paleoproterozoic.
Main Methods:
- Utilized extended-focal-depth imaging and scanning electron microscopy.
- Documented large, cyst-like bodies (10-35 μm diameter) from the Gunflint Chert.
Main Results:
- Identified distinctive microstructures including radial internal strands, surface processes (tubular, pustules, podia), and reticulate cell-wall sculpturing.
- Observed internal bodies suggestive of membrane-bound organelles.
- Detailed morphological features provide strong evidence for eukaryotic affinity.
Conclusions:
- The documented microstructures offer compelling evidence for protists in the late Paleoproterozoic.
- This finding contributes to understanding the early evolution of eukaryotic life.
- Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for resolving microstructures in ancient fossils.
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