Clay templates in Ediacaran vendotaeniaceans: Implications for the taphonomy of carbonaceous fossils

Abstract Although rare, sedimentary deposits containing exceptionally preserved fossils (i.e., Lagerstätten) have shaped our view on the history of life at particular intervals, such as those recording Cambrian radiation animals. Therefore, understanding processes that lead to fossilization unmineralized tissues is crucial better interpret these fossil assemblages. A key issue linked role clay minerals in high-fidelity preservation recalcitrant and soft tissues. Here, we show for first time, an association unusual fibrous clays with carbonaceous (Vendotaenia) late Ediacaran Tamengo Formation (Mato Grosso do Sul State, western Brazil). The vendotaeniaceans occur laminated mudstones/siltstones interpreted being deposited outer distal mid-ramp depositionary settings. are characterized by ribbon-shaped compressions 0.56 mm mean width. obliquely oriented respect bedding plane, follow orientation tectonically deformed structures. Our mineralogical, geochemical, petrographic data demonstrate mainly composed chlorite-smectite mixed layered minerals, >50% chlorite. Altogether, results suggest formed late-diagenetic zone lower anchizone, reinforcing previous idea associated not necessarily related Instead, initial preservative pathway was probably restricted organic matter conservation reducing fine-grained sediments, similar other fossils. This newly established mechanism, which involves formation templates zone, likely a more widespread phenomenon than previously thought.