High-precision U-Pb age constraints on the Permian floral turnovers, paleoclimate change, and tectonics of the North China block

Abstract The Permian marine-terrestrial system of the North China block provides an exceptional window into evolution northern temperate ecosystems during critical transition from icehouse to greenhouse following late Paleozoic ice age (LPIA). Despite many studies on its rich hydrocarbon reserves and climate-sensitive fossil flora, uncertain temporal constraints correlations have hampered a thorough understanding records geologic, biologic, climatic change block. We present new chronostratigraphy based high-precision U-Pb chemical abrasion–isotope dilution–thermal ionization mass spectrometry (CA-ID-TIMS) geochronology tuffs near-complete latest Carboniferous–Permian succession in China. results indicate that predominance continental red beds, climate aridification, disappearance coals characteristic tropical flora were well under way Cisuralian (Early Permian) block, significantly earlier than previously thought. A nearly 20 m.y. hiatus spanning early Kungurian mid-Guadalupian (or later) is revealed close spatial associations with closure and/or subduction Paleo-Asian Ocean related tectonic convergence. This long was concomitant prominent loss highly diverse abundant Cathaysian floras widespread invasion monotonous Angaran arid conditions Similarities floral shift histories between Euramerica suggest aside regional controls movement, extensive volcanism may played major role global warming aridification aftermath LPIA.