Genetic diversity of manganese deposition in the terrestrial geological record

Abstract

Terrestrial manganese deposits formed by hydrothermal, sedimentary and supergene processes. Ancient analogues of modern oceanic hydrothermal deposits formed in spreading centre and subduction-related settings and those deposited from terrestrial hot springs are discussed. Sedimentary Mn oxide deposits formed in shallow water at the margins of stratified oceans above the redoxcline during sea-level changes. Mn carbonate deposits probably formed by diagenesis through Mn oxyhydroxide reduction coupled with organic matter oxidation. Climatic variation, and basin water stratification, responsible for Mn concentration, were manifestations of atmospheric CO₂ content prompted by tectonism. Supergene manganese enrichment in continental weathering profiles was mainly dictated by climate, topography and drainage systems.