Kiselskelett

Kiselskelett is a term used in the field of geology to describe a type of sedimentary rock that is composed primarily of the skeletal remains of marine organisms. The term is derived from the Russian words "kisel" meaning "shell" and "skelet" meaning "skeleton." These rocks are typically formed in shallow marine environments where the accumulation of organic debris is high.

The most common organisms whose skeletal remains contribute to kiselskelett are mollusks, such as clams and snails, as well as other invertebrates like corals and foraminifera. The skeletal fragments are often composed of calcium carbonate, which is relatively resistant to weathering and diagenesis, the processes that transform sediment into rock.

Kiselskelett rocks are often characterized by their fine-grained texture and the presence of fossils. They can vary in color from white to gray or brown, depending on the type of organisms and the degree of diagenesis. These rocks are important in the study of paleoenvironmental conditions, as they can provide insights into the composition of ancient marine ecosystems and the processes that shaped them.

The term kiselskelett is not as widely used in English-language literature as some other geological terms, but it is recognized in the Russian and other Slavic-speaking scientific communities. It is a useful term for describing a specific type of sedimentary rock and contributes to the broader understanding of the geological history of marine environments.