Local δ34S variability in ∼580 Ma carbonates of northwestern Mexico and the Neoproterozoic marine sulfate reservoir

Many δ34S records have been produced from carbonate-associated sulfate (CAS) in order to understand the oxidation state of the Neoproterozoic oceans, but interregional correlation is complicated by the absence of robust chronostratigraphic markers. Here, a globally correlatable stratigraphic interval containing the Wonoka–Shuram (W–S) δ13C excursion was analyzed to explore variability in the sulfur isotope record. In the excursion-containing units, the local δ34S record from multiple, closely spaced sections in Sonora, Mexico, was examined to explore potential heterogeneities, and then these were compared to more distant sections elsewhere.In Sonora, the inception and isotopic minimum of the W–S excursion is located in the Clemente Formation and coincides with an extensive oolite marker bed. Five sections containing this marker bed span ∼25 km of lateral distance, exhibit significant variability in δ34SCAS (range: +18.6 to +27.6‰ VCDT) and high variability in CAS concentration (range: <30 to >1200 ppm). Unlike the δ34SCAS values, CAS concentrations show strong negative correlation with Mn/Sr ratios and Fecarb concentrations, consistent with CAS removal upon diagenetic recrystallization and an absence of an accompanying sulfur isotopic fractionation. Indeed, samples containing low CAS concentrations exhibit petrographic characteristics consistent with diagenetic recrystallization including fabric destructive neomorphism and relatively coarse-crystalline textures.Coeval W–S strata in Death Valley, Oman and the least altered Sonora samples record a decrease in δ34SCAS and an increase in CAS concentration; however, the magnitude of the changes are distinct, perhaps reflecting differential response to a transient oxidation event. In contrast, time equivalent facies of South China do not exhibit a decrease in δ34SCAS nor a relative increase in CAS concentrations. The variability in geochemical characteristics likely developed from local and/or regional marine δ34Ssulfate heterogeneity.Although Neoproterozoic oceanic heterogeneity in δ34Ssulfate has been proposed, it has not been reported on such close spatial scales. In addition, the existence of variability among the Sonora sections in which strata were all deposited at similar depth indicates that heterogeneity could have occurred laterally. Finally, these findings demonstrate that while CAS concentrations may be drastically affected by diagenesis, δ34SCAS may retain primary signatures.

► Proximal, ∼580 Ma units in NW Mexico show trace sulfate and δ34S variability. ► Trace sulfate (CAS) partially affected by diagenetic removal, δ34S unaffected. ► Suggests localized, lateral oceanic δ34Ssulfate heterogeneity at ∼580 Ma. ► Comparison to sections globally demonstrates variability at all scales.