Objective Kinneyia structure, as one of the classic types of microbially induced sedimentary structures (MISS), have attracted extensive attention due to their enigmatic formation mechanisms. Previously documented predominantly in marine to marginal−marine carbonate–clastic successions, this study focuses on the Kinneyia structure specimen developed on bedding surfaces of continental siltstone–fine sandstone across the Permian–Triassic transition in the Jiyuan area, western Henan Province, with the aim of supplementing the geological record of this structure in terrestrial environments and providing new evidence for elucidating its formation mechanism and broader geological significance.

Methods Based on detailed outcrop section observations and specimen description, combined with previous research findings, the diagnostic features, formation mechanisms, spatio−temporal distribution characteristics, and paleoenvironmental implications of these structures are discussed.

Results The Kinneyia structure exhibit millimeter−scale, irregularly sinuous ripple−like morphology with relatively stable ridge width and height. The ridges are predominantly parallel−oriented, with margins protruding outward into finger−like extensions. The structure is typically coated with an iron−rich “mudskin” and is commonly associated with various other types of MISS.

Conclusions This study documents Kinneyia structure developed in continental depositional environments during the Permian–Triassic transition, enriching the known range of sedimentary environments for this structure and offering new insights into paleoenvironmental evolution across the Paleozoic–Mesozoic transition.