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Letter BGeology glossary

Biogenic Sediments

Biogenic sediments are formed from the accumulation of organic material, such as the remains of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Common types include limestone, formed from marine organisms’ shells and skeletons, and coal, derived from compressed plant material. These sediments are crucial for understanding past environmental conditions, the carbon cycle, and the formation of fossil fuels.

Fossilized worm burrows in sedimentary rock surface (biogenic sediments)
Fig. 1 Fossilized worm burrows in sedimentary rock surface (biogenic sediments)

Source Hedges, J. I., & Keil, R. G. (1995). “Sedimentary Organic Matter Preservation: An Assessment and Speculative Synthesis.” Marine Chemistry, 49(2-3), 81-115.

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