Geology and Depositional Characteristics of Early-Middle Miocene Fossil Woods (Central Türkiye)

Why It Matters

The findings reveal a unique record of Miocene ecosystems preserved by hydrothermal processes, offering insights for paleoenvironmental reconstruction and modern geothermal resource assessment.

Key Takeaways

• Fossil woods found in GVC transitional zones
• Silicification preserved original textures of wood and host rocks
• High‑temperature silica fluids caused widespread permineralization
• Modern geothermal activity persists, indicating ongoing tectonic heat

Pulse Analysis

The Galatian Volcanic Complex, stretching across north‑western Central Anatolia, serves as a geological bridge between volcanic edifices and adjacent Neogene basins. Within this transitional belt, researchers identified discrete horizons of silicified wood fossils across seven sites. The varied configurations—layered, scattered, or densely packed—provide clues about depositional dynamics, distinguishing between in‑situ burial and post‑depositional transport. Such fossil assemblages are rare, granting scientists a window into the Early‑Middle Miocene flora that once thrived under a markedly different climate regime.

A striking feature of the study is the extensive silicification that envelops both the fossilized timber and its surrounding host rocks. High‑temperature, silica‑rich geothermal fluids percolated the sedimentary and pyroclastic layers, precipitating quartz through permineralization and preserving fine‑grained textures up to 250 meters thick in the Akpınar Formation. This diagenetic overprint not only fossilized organic material but also locked in sedimentary structures, offering a unique case study of hydrothermal alteration in a tectonically active setting. Modern measurements confirm that the geothermal system, though diminished, continues to circulate silica‑laden fluids, underscoring the longevity of the heat source.

The implications extend beyond academic curiosity. Silicified wood horizons act as natural analogs for subsurface mineralization, informing exploration models for silica and associated ore deposits. Moreover, the persistent geothermal gradient highlights potential for low‑temperature energy extraction, aligning with Turkey’s renewable energy targets. By linking paleo‑environmental data with active tectonics and hydrothermal processes, the research bridges deep‑time ecology and contemporary resource development, reinforcing the strategic importance of the GVC region in both scientific and economic contexts.