Ambient Inclusion Trails (AITs) from the Neoproterozoic Gangolihat Formation, Lesser Himalaya, India

Discovery of well-preserved Ambient Inclusion Trails (AITs) is reported for the first time in India from stromatolitic dolomite unit of the Neoproterozoic Gangolihat Formation, Kumaun Lesser Himalaya. AITs are distinct microtubular structures formed by migration of a mineral in a rock substrate. They exhibit several noncrystallographic morphologies such as curved and helical types among others. Mode of field occurrence, association, and petrographic textures suggest that AITs are indigenous to the host rock. Based on the physico-chemical conditions necessary for the formation of AITs, involvement of a biological process is considered for the genesis of AITs in the Gangolihat Formation.