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Definition of Biopetrology and biopetrological palaeogeography

biopetrology,microbialite,biolith,biomineralization,reef

Biopetrology is a new interdisciplinary science dealing with the features, formation, environment, and economic significance of bioliths, i.e., the biogenic rocks. Currently it includes the five different but related research fields: biomineralization, modern reefs, ancient reefs, modern microbial rocks, and ancient microbial rocks. Research of biomineralization and modern bioliths provides the base for the study of ancient bioliths. Because present-day biosphere and environments are different from the ancient, the research results of modern bioliths and biomineralization cannot be directly applied to the ancient. The research results of the ancient bioliths can provide ideas for designing the research of modern bioliths and biomineralization. The related disciplines include biology, microbiology, paleontology, paleomicrobiology, sedimentology, sedimentary petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry. Biopetrological research needs the knowledge of these disciplines. Different bioliths form in different environments, and have different significance in reconstruction of palaeogeographic environments.