U/Mo ratios and δ98/95Mo as local and global redox proxies during mass extinction events

When used in conjunction with trace metal redox proxies, the use of U/Mo ratios and δ98/95Mo values can considerably enhance the interpretation of ocean oxygenation trends both locally and globally. This is illustrated with studies from two, biogenic-chert dominated records of mass extinction: the Ordovician–Silurian boundary and the Late Permian in sections from the Yangtze Block in South China. The latest Ordovician mass extinction is well known to coincide with oxygenation episode in the Hirnantian Stage here revealed by trace metal proxies (V/V + Ni, V/Cr, Ni/Co) that show it sandwiched between anoxic/euxinic black shales. The predominantly anoxic/euxinic Ordovician–Silurian strata provide a record of seawater δ98/95Mo values that are seen to gradually rise during the interval from 0.5 to 1.0‰. The exception to the δ98/95 Mo stability is the datum of the slight negatively δ98/95Mo, associated with decreasing of V/Cr and V/(V + Ni) ratio suggesting the Hirnantian oxygenation event. The Upper Permian chert succession at Shangsi reveals an overall better ventilated record in which the best oxygenated strata show the highest U/Mo values that is interpreted as relative enrichment of U in suboxic conditions. At a few levels anoxic/euxinic conditions show the δ98/95Mo values to be ~ 2‰, close to modern values, implying that latest Permian oceans were as well ventilated as those today. The well-known end-Permian oceanic anoxic event is therefore suggested to only develop at the end of this period.

► Investigated the variation of palaeo-oxygenation indexes and δ98/95Mo during two extinction events
► Calibrated the U/Mo ratio using established redox trace metal proxies
► The used in conjunction with trace metal redox proxies and δ98/95Mo values
► Enhanced the interpretation of ocean oxygenation trends both locally and globally