sapropel

views updated May 08 2018

sapropel Organic ooze or sludge accumulated in anaerobic conditions in shallow lakes, swamps, or on the sea bed. It contains more hydrocarbons than peat; when dry it is dull, dark, and tough; it may be a source of oil and gas.

A Dictionary of Earth Sciences AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY

sapropel

views updated Jun 11 2018

sapropel Organic ooze or sludge accumulated in anaerobic conditions in shallow lakes, swamps, or on the seabed. It contains more hydrocarbons than peat. When dry it is dull, dark, and tough and it may be a source of oil and gas.

A Dictionary of Ecology MICHAEL ALLABY