Precambrian fossils from the Hamersley range, Western Australia, and their use in stratigraphic correlation

Abstract

The palaeontology, correlation and sedimentation of the Proterozoic sequence in the Hamersley Range, Western Australia, are discussed. Fossil calcareous algal growths, such as stromatolites and onkolites are described, as well as possible medusoid impressions. These indicate shallow water accumulation of the sediments and provide evidence of the extensive existence of plant and animal life in the Late Precambrian of Western Australia. Distinctive stromatolites are shown to characterize various levels in the Proterozoic succession. A descending sequence of stromatolite assemblages is proposed denoted by: Emphasis is placed on the possible significance of these calcareous algae for correlation and age subdivision of the Proterozoic of Western Australia and its relation to other Precambrian successions.