Multi-proxy geochemical records of the Middle Cenomanian Event in the Xigaze forearc basin: Implications for methane seepage in a restricted marginal sea
Description
Oceanic anoxic events (OAEs) represent abrupt perturbations of the global carbon cycle, characterized by widespread bottom-water anoxia and the transient yet globally extensive deposition of organic-rich black shales. Moreover, the substantial release of methane into the ocean–atmosphere system can significantly exacerbate environmental deterioration during OAEs, thereby promoting organic matter burial. However, the specific processes and feedback mechanisms coupling OAEs and methane seepage remain poorly constrained. In this study, we investigate host rocks, embedded carbonate concretions, and pyrite enclosed within these concretions from a representative Middle to Late Cenomanian section in the Xigaze forearc basin to identify the occurrence of an OAE and further evaluateits interrelationship with methane seepage.