Abstract
Stratigraphic and sedimentologic studies in continental successions do not always devote particular attention to the paleosols, in particular in arid or semi-arid paleoenvironments. The aim of this paper is to: (1) describe in detail the macro- and microscopic pedogenic features of four types of paleosol profiles with calcic horizons of the Marília Formation (Maastrichtian), and (2) elaborate paleoclimatic considerations based on the depth of the nodular calcic horizon and on the molecular weathering ratios of the main oxides. The Marília Formation, which crops out in the eastern portion of the Bauru Basin (São Paulo State, southeastern Brazil), usually contains profiles of calcic paleosols developed over sandstone deposits which formed in a eolian sand sheet paleoenvironment. The type of calcium carbonate accumulation in paleosol horizons varies from thin discontinuous coatings on ped surfaces trough faint filaments in soil matrix to massive accumulations between coalesced nodules, which are associated respectively to the stages I, II, and III of calcic soil development morphology classification. Four carbonate paleosol profiles with prominent calcic horizons (Bk and Ck) and secondary argillic horizons (Bt and Btk) have been studied in Marília Formation: two near the homonymous city and other two around the Monte Alto plateau. Field data and petrographic, geochemical, and clay mineralogy analyses allowed to classify these four paleosol profiles as Aridisols and define some paleoclimate considerations on their development. Molecular weathering ratios relative to calcification, hydrolysis, clay formation, salinization, and hydration of the paleosol profiles has been calculated to define the characteristic of the paleosols and the paleoclimatic proxies. Paleoprecipitations have been estimated by the application of an empirical equation that related this value to the depth of the Bk horizon.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
