Possible noncalcareous algae in the upper part of the bell canyon formation (Permian), New Mexico

Abstract

A new genus and species of alga called Sinoglypha nassichuki is identified and described from Guadalupian rocks of the Delaware Basin, New Mexico. It occurs in tilted to almost upright position in laminites generally accepted as being deposited in deep, anoxic water. The fossils are noncalcareous, having a wavy nature. They are not classed as trace fossils of animals. They are leafy, 2–5 cm long and may be preserved in original position.

If Sinoglypha is an alga it leads to the tentative, but not new, conclusion that perhaps the water was not deep but shallow enough for light penetration—30 meters for the upper part of the Bell Canyon Formation.

Key words:

• Delaware Basin
• Bell Canyon Formation
• Sinoglypha
• noncalcareous algae
• depositional environment

Notes

Geological Survey of Canada Contribution No. 11192