Kussiella cf. kussiensis: Stromatolites of the Paleoproterozoic Taltheilei Formation, Canada
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Stromatolites represent some of the earliest and most compelling evidence of life on Earth. Among these ancient microbial structures, Kussiella cf. kussiensis stands out as a significant fossil type preserved within the Taltheilei Formation of the Northwest Territories, Canada. Dated to approximately 1.88 billion years ago, these stromatolites provide a rare glimpse into the ecosystems of the Paleoproterozoic Era and the role of cyanobacteria in shaping Earth’s biosphere.
Geological and Palaeobiological Context
The Taltheilei Formation, located near Blanchet Island in Great Slave Lake, is a sequence of Precambrian rocks that records shallow marine environments during the Paleoproterozoic. Within this formation, stromatolitic structures attributed to Kussiella cf. kussiensis are preserved as laminated domical and columnar forms. These structures were created by microbial mats, primarily cyanobacteria, which trapped and bound sediment while precipitating calcium carbonate. Their morphology reflects both biological activity and environmental conditions, offering valuable data for reconstructing ancient ecosystems.
These stromatolites formed approximately 1.88 billion years ago, during the Paleoproterozoic Era, a critical interval in Earth’s history. At this time, oxygen levels were rising due to cyanobacterial photosynthesis, culminating in the Great Oxidation Event. Stromatolites such as Kussiella cf. kussiensis are therefore not only fossils of microbial communities but also enduring markers of planetary transformation.
Morphological Characteristics
Specimens of Kussiella cf. kussiensis display finely laminated growth patterns, often visible in polished slabs. The domical to columnar morphologies suggest stable, shallow-water environments where microbial mats could thrive. These structures demonstrate accretionary growth, with successive layers recording cycles of microbial activity and sediment deposition. Such features are critical for understanding stromatolite taxonomy and distinguishing Kussiella from other genera.
Scientific Significance
The study of Kussiella cf. kussiensis contributes to several fields of geobiology. Firstly, it provides evidence of microbial community organisation approximately 1.88 billion years ago, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of cyanobacteria. Secondly, it informs evolutionary studies by demonstrating the persistence of stromatolite-forming organisms across geological time. Finally, it offers geochemical insights into ancient environments, as stromatolites are used to reconstruct palaeoecological conditions such as water chemistry, sedimentation rates, and microbial metabolism.
Availability
Today, specimens of Kussiella cf. kussiensis are most often presented as polished slabs for educational or display purposes. Stromatolites like these are naturally formed fossils from very specific localities — in this case, the Taltheilei Formation in the Northwest Territories of Canada. Because they are tied to one deposit, supply depends entirely on whether material has recently been collected. As a result, they appear on the market only occasionally, rather than in a steady supply.
Crystal World currently has a limited selection available, making these rare stromatolites accessible to collectors.
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References
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Crystal World Sales. Kussiella cf. kussiensis, Paleoproterozoic, Canada ZKK034. Product description, Devon Meadows, VIC.
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FossilEra. Polished Stromatolite (Kussiella) Slab – 1.88 Billion Years. Fossil listing and locality details.
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Fossils‑UK. Rare 1.88 Ga Palaeoproterozoic Stromatolite from Canada (Kussiella cf. kussiensis). Product and locality information.
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PicClick AU. Stromatolite Kussiella cf. kussiensis, Paleoproterozoic, Canada S1071. Collectables listing.