REVEALING MICROBIAL COMPONENTS IN BIOFILM ON AQUATIC INSECT CADAVERS: AN EXPERIMENTAL TAPHONOMIC STUDY

ADRIANA CECILIA MANCUSO; MELINA SIERRA; BUSTOS ESCALONA, EVELYN LUZ; ANDREA BEATRIZ ARCUCCI

REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PALEONTOLOGIA

SOC BRASILEIRA PALEONTOLOGIA

Lugar: Porto Alegre; Año: 2024

1519-7530

The La Cantera Formation, recognized as a Konservat-Lagerstätten, preserves exceptional aquatic insect fossils from the Early Cretaceous. This study explores, using experimental taphonomy, the role of microbial biofilms in the preservational process over aquatic insects. An experimental analysis was proposed to understand the impact of microorganisms on decomposition and preservation. The investigation focuses on aquatic insects as model organisms because they are relevant in the La Cantera insect record. The experiment, conducted in controlled conditions, includes inhibitors targeting algae, bacteria, and fungi, revealing the development of biofilms and their impact on insect preservation. The differential development of microorganisms under each treatment indicates that biofilms, composed of algae and fungi, significantly impact the preservation of corpses by preventing disarticulation and facilitating preservation. This suggests that microbial mats could be crucial in forming exceptional paleontological deposits. By comparing these findings with the fossil record from La Cantera, researchers can gain insight into the potential significance of microbial mats in forming such deposits. This research highlights the importance of understanding the role of microorganisms in preserving fossils and contributes to our understanding of paleontological processes.