New methods for analyzing the microfossil Tasmanites from the Devonian biotic crisis in Kentucky
Title
New methods for analyzing the microfossil Tasmanites from the Devonian biotic crisis in Kentucky
Subject
Biology
Creator
Kendall, Lee
Date
2019-2020
Contributor
Falk, Amanda (Mentor)
Language
English
Abstract
The Late Devonian extinction is believed to have eliminated at least 70% of the species on Earth. However, it remains unclear if this mass extinction took place over a short or extended period of time. The goal of this research project is to shed light on the general ecological conditions of the Devonian period, so that we can better understand the length of the Late Devonian extinction. To accomplish this, we plan on performing a stable nitrogen isotope analysis on algal specimens from the genus Tasmanites, dating from the middle of the Devonian period. This requires chemically cleaning Tasmanites specimens in bulk, as residual rock matrix would interfere with the analysis. Here we tested multiple potential methods for processing Tasmanites specimens in large quantities, in preparation for an eventual stable nitrogen isotope analysis.
Collection
Citation
Kendall, Lee, “New methods for analyzing the microfossil Tasmanites from the Devonian biotic crisis in Kentucky,” RICE (Research, Internships, and Creative Endeavors) Symposium, accessed April 29, 2024, https://ricecentrecollege.omeka.net/items/show/93.