What geological term refers to sediments that originate from biological activity?

The term that refers to sediments originating from biological activity is "oozes." Oozes are typically composed of the remains of organisms such as foraminifera, diatoms, and other microorganisms. These sediments accumulate in oceanic environments and can consist of calcium carbonate or silica, depending on the biological sources contributing to their formation. The presence of oozes indicates areas with high biological productivity, where the remains of these organisms settle on the ocean floor over time.

In contrast, authigenic deposits form through chemical precipitation or alteration of minerals that occur in situ, rather than from biological activities. Minerogenic deposits are derived from the physical and chemical weathering of rocks, and clastic sediments are fragments derived from the erosion of pre-existing rocks. These terms highlight different processes of sediment formation, distinguishing oozes as unique representatives of biogenic activity.