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Microfaunal analysis of Cretaceous and Paleogene sediments collected over several decades from Western Siberia has illuminated the diversity, stratigraphic distribution, and paleoecological signifi cance of the rare low trochospiral benthic foraminiferal genus Bagginoides. Here, we describe two new species B. yamalensis n.sp. and B. tibeisalinella n.sp [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stratigraphy of Campanian deposits in the stratotype of the Kudrinskaya Formation in the Southwestern Crimea is revised. For the first time, integrated sedimentological, biostratigraphic (ichnofossils, cephalopods, inoceramids, foraminifers, dinocysts, nannoplankton, gilianelles), isotope-geochemical, paleo- and petromagnetic characteristics of the section were obtained. The boundary of the lower and upper Campanian is substantiated and confirmed by U–Pb dating of zircons from the well-known bentonite (kil) clay bed in the interval of 77–80 Ma. It is proposed to accept the Campanian Substage boundary of the General Stratigraphic Chart (for bipartite stage subdivision) at the top of the Chron C33r, located near the δ13C isotopic excursion "MCaE" – Mid-Campanian Event, near the first occurrence of the benthic foraminifer Brotzenella monterelensis and a number of other traditional biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stratigraphy of the Kerch–Taman region has been refined based on foraminiferal assemblages from the clay pulp of the Semigorsky, Andrusov, and Borukh-Oba mud volcanoes. Comparison with the fauna from the reference section of the Paleogene along the Belaya River (Republic of Adygea) enabled us to reveal deposits of the Middle Eocene (Cherkessk and Kuma formations of the Lutetian and Bartonian stages); Lower Oligocene (Pshekha Formation, Rupelian Stage), confirmed by finds of remains of pteropods; and Middle Miocene (Konkian and Sarmatian stages of the Eastern Paratethys regional scale of the Miocene). Cretaceous deposits (Semigorsky Volcano) are attributed to the Late Campanian–Maastrichtian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiostratigraphic assessment of the benthic foraminiferal record at International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Site U1513 in the Mentelle Basin (southeast Indian Ocean, offshore western Australia), yielding a Turonian through Santonian deep-water benthic foraminiferal assemblage is presented. Predominantly calcareous deep-water benthic foraminifera are recovered, whereas agglutinated benthic taxa show a rare occurrence. Epifaunal benthic foraminifera make up ~50% of the total assemblage during the Turonian to Santonian. The most frequently recorded taxa are gavelinellids and gyroidinoids. Adistal, bathyal depositional environment is inferred. Two distinct benthic foraminiferal associations, the Gavelinella berthelini association and the Notoplanulina rakauroana association, were identified in the 160 m-thick succession, and together they yield over 190 taxa. At Site U1513 the occurrence of important benthic foraminiferal markers such as Gavelinella berthelini and the Notoplanulina lineage allows a good correlation with other localities in the southern hemisphere and tentatively with the Pacific Realm. Gavelinella bethelini, which is present from the base of the Turonian succession, shows its last occurrence shortly after the Turonian/Coniacian boundary. Notoplanulina rakauroana is recorded to range from the lower Coniacian through the uppermost Santonian. Throughout the Southern Hemisphere, a similar sequence of benthic foraminiferal bioevents in the Upper Cretaceous can be identified at the Walvis Ridge, in South Africa, Argentina, Southern India, the Kerguelen Plateau, the Great Australian Bight, and in New Zealand. This study aims at contributing to the development of an Upper Cretaceous calcareous benthic foraminiferal zonation applicable to the Southern Hemisphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithological, paleontological and biostratigraphic characteristics of the Turonian–Coniacian deposits of the Lower Bannovka section, the stratotype of the Bannovka Formation (Volga region, Turonian) are presented. Magnetostratigraphic characteristics of thе sediments have been supplemented and elaborated. Petromagnetic data contribute to more refined stratigraphy of the section and facilitate the revealing of depositional rhythmicity. Paleomagnetic data combined with benthic foraminifera data enable the most detailed correlation of the Turonian–Coniacian deposits in the Volga region. Results of a comprehensive study of this stratigraphic unit within the southeastern arch of the Ulyanovsk-Saratov trough revealed patterns in the distribution of the Gubkino Horizon, determined by regional tectonics and processes preceding deposition in the Coniacian and Santonian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New data on the taxonomic composition and stratigraphic distribution of benthic and planktonic foraminifera in the Campanian–Maastrichtian interval of the Beshkosh section (Southwestern Crimea) are presented. Samples were collected using the "sample-to-sample" method for different types of analysis. Zones and Beds were established on the basis the foraminiferal succession. The Angulogavelinella gracilis LC 18 Zone, Bolivinoides draco LC 21 Zone, Brotzenella praeacuta LC 22 Zone and Beds with Gavelinella sahlstroemi were recognized using benthic foraminifera and Beds with Laeviheterohelix glabrans, Guembelitria cretacea Zone were recognized using planktonic foraminifera. All recognized biostrata are correlated with magnetostratigraphic, palynomorph and macrofauna events. Beds and zones recognized based on benthic foraminifera are correlated with Campanian–Maastrichtian bioevents in sections of the European paleobiogeographic region. Planktonic foraminiferal data are correlated with the International Stratigraphic Scale (Tethys Region) and the regional stratigraphic scheme of Poland. For the first time, 15 species of nine planktonic foraminifera genera and 38 species (25 of which were found for the first time) of 25 benthic foraminifera genera have been identified in the Beshkosh section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of microfacies, with special emphasis on the significance of larger benthic foraminifera, is used to interpret the occurrence of different marine subenvironments into a mixed carbonate-siliciclastic platform from the upper Campanian in the Prebetic domain, representing the southeastern margin of the Cretaceous Iberian paleoisland. Four foraminiferal assemblages have been recognized, each one specifically assigned to a depositional systems: (1) the outer to middle shelf with Neorotalia? pinetensis, Goupillaudina spp., gavelinellids, Orbitoides tissoti-media, Praesiderolites douvillei, and Navarella joaquini; (2) the upper part of the middle shelf with the presence of seagrass meadows Orbitoides tissoti-media, "Orbitoides" concavatus, Lepidorbitoides campaniensis, Planorbulina cretae, Sirtina ornata, Praesiderolites douvillei, Pseudosiderolites vidali, and Rotalia baetica; (3) the upper photic zone of the inner shelf, with constant wave agitation, inhabited by Orbitoides cf. megaloformis, Lepidorbitoides campaniensis, and Wannierina vilavellensis; and (4) the paralic shallow protected shelf with alternating marine/freshwater influences characterized by charophytes and Suturina minima. Results on larger foraminifera distribution show the similarities and differences with the benthic communities shallow water platform assemblages of the nearby Pyrenean paleobioprovince. This allows to rise the Upper Cretaceous shelfs of the Betic area as a fundamental biogeographic piece for larger benthic foraminifera migration patterns between the Tethyan domain and the other marine domains during the Late Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cretaceous deposits containing pelagic red beds (CORBs - Cretaceous Oceanic Red Beds) are developed in the Ukrainian Carpathians. CORBs have a global distribution, they are sharply depleted in organic matter and their formation is associated with periods of cooling and intensive circulation of cold, oxygen-enriched deep-sea currents that oxidize organic carbon. CORBs in the Ukrainian Carpathians are common in the Upper Cretaceous, while the Lower Cretaceous sediments, especially in the Outer (Flysch) Carpathians, are often enriched in organic matter (in particular the black shales of the Shypot and Spas formations). Such change in sediments enriched and depleted in organic matter may be associated with regular climate changes. In the Inner Carpathians, in the both the Peniny Klippen Belt and the Marmarosh Klippen Zone, CORBs are represented by thick (100-200 m) mostly red-colored marls and shales that make up the Turonian - Maastrichtian Puchov Formation. A fragment of the Puchov Formation of the Turonian age is presented in the Marmarosh Massif. Stratigraphically, the lowest CORBs represented by layers of pink marls are noted in the upper part (Middle-Upper Cenomanian) of the Tysalo Formation in the Peniny Klippen Belt. Deposits containing CORBs in the Peniny Klippen Belt are intensively deformed, in some places they are transformed into thin shale rocks or friction mud and are part of the tectonic mélange, while in the Marmarosh Klippen Zone they lie monoclinally and are weakly deformed. In the Outer Carpathians, CORBs are represented by: Turonian-Paleocene variegated shales and marls of the Holyatyn Beds (Subsilesian Nappe); Turonian-Coniacian red-colored and variegated shales belonging to the lower member of the Yalovets Formation (Dukla, Chornohora, Svydovets, and Krasnoshora nappes); and pack of Turonian variegated marls included in the Sukhiv Formation (Burkut nappe). CORBs represented by red-brown interlayers, occur both in the uppermust Albian-lower Cenomanian (Eiffellithus turriseiffeli Zone) of the Sukhiv Formation, and in the Santonian upper member of the Yalovets Formation. CORBs in the Outer Carpathians are deformed to a greater or lesser extent, plastic marls of the Sukhiv Formation are especially strongly deformed, which makes it much more difficult to establish their stratigraphic sequence. The age of the deposits of the Ukrainian Carpathians, which contain CORBs, has been clarified. The studied sediments are correlated with the Geologic Time Scale (2020) on the basis of nannoplankton and planktonic foraminifera. The biozonal scale based on nannoplankton of A.M. Romaniv is compared in the range BC27/UC0 (upper Albian - lower Cenomanian) - UC20 (upper Maastrichtian) according to the first appearance of zonal species according to the scale of J. Barnett (1998). Accordantly, the Eiffellithus turriseiffeli Zone (uppermost Albian-Lower Senomanian); Gartnerago obliquum Zone (Middle Senomanian-lowermost Turonian); Eiffellithus eximius-Marthasterites furcatus Zone (Lower Turonian-lowermost Upper Coniacian); Micula staurophora-Tetralithus obscurus-Broinsonia parca Zone (Upper Coniacian-lowermost Middle Campanian); Tetralithus aculeus Zone (Middle Campanian); Tetralithus? trifidus (Middle Campanian-lowermost Upper Campanian); Nephrolithus frequens (Upper Campanian-Upper Maastrichtian) are distinguished. The biozonal division of the Upper Cretaceous of the Carpathians according to planktonic foraminifera after N.I. Maslakova was modified and compared with the biochronozones of a typical section of the Tethys region (Coccioni, Premoli Silva, 2015). In the studied sediments, the following zones are distinguished: Thalmanninella reicheli (middle part of the Lower Cenomanian), Rotalipora cushmani (middle part of the Lower Cenomanian-Upper Cenomanian), Helvetoglobotruncana helvetica (lower part of Turonian), Dicarinella concavata (top of Turonian-lowermost Santonian), Contusotruncana fornicata (most of Santonian), Globotruncanita elevata (lower part of the Campanian), Contusotruncana morozovae (middle part of the Campanian), Globotruncanita stuarti (top of the Campanian-lower part of the Maastrichtian), Abathomphalus mayaroensis (upper part of the Maastrichtian); beds with Thalmanninella globotruncanoides (lower part of the Lower Cenomanian), assemblage with Marginotruncana schneegansi, Marginotruncana sigali, Marginotruncana renzi (upper part of Turonian). Benthic foraminifera Uvigerinammina jankoi Zone (Turonian); Spiroplectinella costata Zone (Coniacian-Lower Santonian); Caudammina gigantea Zone (Upper Santonian-Lower Campanian); Rzehakina inclusa Zone (Upper Campanian-Maastrichtian); Rzehakina fissistomata Zone (Paleocene) were identified accordantly to zonal schemes of L.D. Ponomaryova and B. Olszewska. The lower boundary of the CORBs in the Ukrainian Carpathians is correlated with the Senomanian-Turonian boundary on the basis of appearance of planktonic foraminifers of Helvetoglobotruncana helvetica Zone and benthic foraminifers of Uvigerinammina jankoi Zone in the base of both Puchov Formation (Pieniny Klippen Belt) and Holyatun Beds (Subsilesian Nappe), as well as in the lowermost part of the Yalovets Formation (Dukla, Chornohora, Svydovets and Krasnoshora nappes). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-six species of radiolarians recovered from the Upper Cretaceous Smoking Hills and Mason River formations in the Northwest Territories represent the first assemblage of this age from mainland Arctic Canada. Four interval zones and two subzones, calibrated to radiometric ages, are proposed based on the lowest and highest occurrence of index radiolarian species. These are 1) the Santonian/early Campanian Kuppelella aff. cayeuxi Zone, 2) the middle Campanian Diacanthocapsa aff. rotunda Zone (subdivided into the Kreuzstella vierkantiga and Lithostrobus borealis subzones), 3) the late Campanian Canadasphaera inuita Zone, and 4) the early Maastrichtian Stichomitra cf. communis-Xitus sp. B Zone. Integration of these radiolarian biozones with previously reported diatom, silicoflagellate, palynological and foraminiferal biozones and new radiometric ages indicate a middle Coniacian-middle Campanian age for the Smoking Hills Formation and a middle Campanian-late Maastrichtian (probably Paleocene) age for the Mason River Formation. The radiolarian assemblages reported here resemble those of the North Slope of Alaska and western Siberia, allowing for biostratigraphic correlations within the Arctic Realm. • Highly diverse Cretaceous radiolarian assemblage recovered from the Canadian Arctic. • Four radiolarian biozones identified, spanning Santonian to lower Maastrichtian. • Age refined using correlation with siliceous microfossils and radiometric dating. • Potential for an Upper Cretaceous radiolarian biozonation in the Arctic Realm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of a comprehensive study of the boundaries of the Turonian–Coniacian in the Upper Cretaceous deposits of the Abinskii region of the Northwestern Caucasus, composed of rhythmically constructed carbonate strata of the hemipelagic type, are presented. Biostratigraphic analysis of foraminifera complexes made it possible to identify zones in the section that are comparable to those proposed for the Point of the Global Stratotype of the boundary of the Coniacian in Germany. On the basis of chemostratigraphic (isotope) studies, the levels of abiotic events traced in the section and other territories have been established. The Shapsug section, after further study, can be proposed as a possible Hypostratotype (Limitotype) of the Turonian–Coniacian boundary for the territory of the Russian Federation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of integrated study of the Turonian–Coniacian sediments from the Abinsky district (Northwest Caucasus), which are represented by a rhythmic terrigenous-carbonate sequence, are discussed. The use of microfacial, X-ray diffraction, isotope, and micropaleontological analyses allowed us to reveal important changes in abiotic and biotic evolution during this interval. The peculiarities of carbonate sedimentation, as well as changes in the composition of foraminiferal assemblages, helped to establish fluctuations in the relative sea level, whereas isotopic studies assisted in defining climatic fluctuations. During the periods of accumulation of carbonate and clayey material, the area was occupied by a relatively deep-water open-sea basin with normal salinity. In the background of high temperatures, cooling pulses are also recorded within the studied interval. The position of the Turonian–Coniacian boundary in the section is revised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of foraminifera from the Igumale Formation of the southern Benue Trough was undertaken to determine the paleoecology and depositional environment of the sedimentary successions. The studied sections span a total stratigraphic thickness of 86.44 m comprising 85.34 m of drill core and 1.10 m outcrop section. The lithologies of the subsurface section are composed of massive to laminated grey shale with subordinate grey to cream limestone in the upper part of the section. The recorded foraminiferal microfauna consists mainly of benthic forms with few planktic taxa. A total of 17 species comprising 12 benthic and five planktic and representing 84 and 16%, respectively, of total foraminiferal abundance were identified. The benthic group is composed of 11 agglutinated species of Ammobaculites, Ammotium, and Haplophragmoides genera and one calcareous benthic species belonging to the genus Anomalinoides. The benthic microfauna is dominated by Ammobaculites and Ammotium. The planktic taxa are represented by Planoheterohelix, Muricohedbergella, and Pseudotextularia. The assemblages are characterized by low diversity and high dominance. Based on taxonomic composition, diversity indices, planktic/benthic foraminifera (P/B) ratio, and test morphotypes alongside sedimentological characteristics, brackish to shelf depositional environment with paleodepths ranging from shallow inner to middle neritic is deduced for the studied section of the formation. Bottom water oxygenation conditions varied intermittently between oxic and dysoxic with possible more oxic conditions towards the top of the borehole section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertical ranges of inocerams, belemnites, ammonites, echinoids, sponges, and brachiopods from lithologically monotonous carbonate rocks have been studied in the Kommunar section. The results obtained in the study of macrofaunistic assemblages confirm and complement the benthic foraminifera research data of distinguished units of the middle–upper Turonian, Coniacian, lower and upper Santonian, and lower Campanian basal horizon. The stratigraphically full upper Coniacian–lower Santonian interval in the Kommunar section has been identified in the Volga region for the first time. The defined macro- and microfaunistic biostratigraphic units have been correlated and discussed. The Boreal–Tethyan magnetochronological correlation of the Santonian–Campanian makes it possible to conclude that the Santonian lower boundary in different regions differs by about a million years, which is comparable to the duration of the Santonian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakhtiariella, a new genus of Larger Benthic Foraminifera is described from the upper Maastrichtian Tarbur Formation of Iran. The new taxon is characterised by a trochospirally coiled initial test part with angular chamber margins, later uncoiling and becoming rectilinear and presenting a coarse subepidermal network of horizontal and vertical partitions. Appearing as an extension of the subepidermal alveolar layer (exoskeleton), the pseudotriangular-shaped main partitions extend inwards and stretch downwards to the chamber floor where their arrangement is related to the inner margin of the central area with irregularly distributed pore-like foramina. Together with Persiacyclammina, which also displays such peculiar 'subepidermal septula', Bakhtiariella is included into the new family Bakhtiarellidae, and further compared with the Jurassic–Lower Cretaceous Hauraniidae. The new family gives further evidence for the diversification and pronounced endemism (Arabian Plate) of Larger Benthic Foraminifera within the final phase of the so-called Upper Cretaceous Global Community Maturation Cycle. This leads to the conclusion that both Persiacyclammina and Bakhtiariella can be considered 'Key Mesozoic Benthic Foraminifera of the Middle East'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, selected the Kometan Formation (Late Turonian - Early Campanian) from the Dokan area, NE-Iraq. In this formation studied Ostracoda and identified fifteen open Ostracoda species belonging to ten genera (Bairdia, Bairdiacypris, Bythocypris, Bairdoppilata, Cavellina, Cypridina, Cytherella, Haplocytheridea, Pterygocythereis, and Paracypris). The goal of the present study is to identify Ostracoda species under polarizing microscopes for the first time in the Kometan Formation in the Dokan area. The Ostracoda assemblage such as Bairdia, Bairdiacypris, Cytherella, Cypridina, and Paracypris with foraminifera species Globotruncana linneiana, Globotruncanita stuartiformis, Marginotruncana schneeansi, and Dicarinella asymetrica indicate the Kometan Formation deposited in the deep marine environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study area is located in Tang-e Bagh at Kuh-e Genu, approximately 69 km, northern Persian Gulf. The age relationships of Sarvak, Gurpi, and Pabdeh formations were unclear in the study area because of the low-resolution biostratigraphy. Therefore, 152 samples were collected. All samples contain well-preserved foraminifers that permit clarification of the age of these formations. Nine benthic species (5 genera) and sixty-eight planktonic foraminiferal species (29 genera) were identified that were arranged eleven biozones with high resolution of biostratigraphy. Biozone I corresponds to the total range of Orbitolina qatarica in the Mauddud Member of Sarvak Formation, suggesting the Cenomanian (middle Cenomanian) age. The biozone II is characterized by the total range of Dicarinella asymetrica in the basal part of Gurpi Formation, indicating the Santonian age. Therefore, there is a hiatus between the Sarvak and Gurpi formations that includes part of the Mauddud Member, the whole Ahmadi Member, and the Ilam Formation. This hiatus encompasses the late Cenomanian to Coniacian that is marked by a few meters of Fe-stained deposits in the Kuh-e Genu; the interval range zones III to VII as well as Abathomphalus mayaroensis zone VIII (TRZ) are present within the rest of Gurpi Formation and suggests the Campanian to Maastrichtian. The biozones IX-XI are present within the Pabdeh Formation that corresponds to a Not Zone and two interval range zones (P1b, P1c-P2), suggesting Danian. Based on microfacies, texture, and paleontological analysis, a deep-water environment suggests for Gurpi and Pabdeh formations and shallow marine conditions for Sarvak Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of microfaunistic (benthic foraminifers) and magnetostratigraphic (paleomagnetic and petromagnetic) studies obtained in the lower part of the Upper Cretaceous deposits of the Kommunar section are presented. On the basis of the study of benthic foraminifers, the section consists of middle and upper Turonian, Coniacian, lower and upper Santonian, and basal horizon of the lower Campanian. In addition, all Coniacian zones and subzones of the East European Platform have been established. These data confirm the importance of the Kommunar section as a stratotype of the Volsk Formation (Coniacian of the Middle and Lower Volga region). In the Kommunar section, the Turonian and Coniacian are characterized by a normal polarity, and the Santonian and lower Campanian are characterized by a reversed polarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper Maastrichtian Tarbur Formation of the Zagros Zone, SW Iran, contains a rich assemblage of larger benthic Foraminifera including agglutinating, porcelaneous, and lamellar-perforate taxa. The occurrence of such a diversified foraminiferal fauna represents a prominent high diversity that took place in the Arabian platform during the latest Cretaceous. Several new species have been reported in the past decades from these carbonates, whereas many others have been described in recent times. However, the list of unknown taxa is still far from being complete. In the present contribution, we describe a new taxon referred to the miliolid genus Idalina. Idalina praecaenozoica n. sp. displays the typical basal layer that characterises the genus, whereas it differs from the other well-known Cretaceous and Paleogene allies by some morphometrical parameters. Compared to the dispersal of other Maastrichtian larger Foraminifera, the paleogeographic distribution of Cretaceous Idalina appears less extensive. Pseudonummoloculina kalantarii, another characteristic miliolid from the Tarbur Fm. is here figured with poorly known axial sections. The latest representative of the Siderolitidae, the late Maastrichtian marker taxon Canalispina iapygia is here reported as well. All such taxa give further evidence to the enhanced biogeographic radiation especially in this area before the K-Pg boundary extinction event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Upper Cretaceous Shiranish Formation outcropped close to Bade village and Bekhere anticline, Kurdistan region at northern Iraq and consists of alternating mixed tough grey limestone, marly limestone, marl beds interpreted as a middle - outer shelf - upper bathyal environments (basinal) depositional environment. Fifteen thin sections were studied under a polarized microscope to find out the petrographic component, fauna content, and for microfacies analysis. The major petrographic constituents are fossils, bioclastic grains, micrite matrix, and extraclast (quartz grains). Planktic foraminifera and nannofossils are the major particles within wackestone and packstone microfacies types. The planktonic foraminifera biozones from previous study (such as Globotruncana aegyptiaca, Gansserina gansseri, Racemiguembelina fructicosa, Plummerita hantkeninoides) and the recorded calcareous nannofossils biozones of Broinsonia parca, Reinhardtites levis, Arkhangelskiella cymbiformis, suggest a late Campanian to late Maastrichtian age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moncharmontia apenninca (De Castro 1966) is widely reported in the Upper Cretaceous (Turonian-Campanian) shallow- water successions of the Neotethyan realm (e.g., Italy, Croatia). With its "First Appearance Datum" (FAD) in the lowermost Turonian, it is considered a newcomer taxon in the aftermath of the Cenomanian/Turonian boundary (CTB) extinction event, and therefore a member of the Upper Cretaceous Global Community Maturation Cycle. Its common presence in the middle-pro parte upper Cenomanian Sarvak Formation and time-equivalent strata in Mexico (Valles-San Luis Potosí Platform) document that it represents a CTB extinction survivor taxon like Dicyclina, Nezzazata, Reticulinella and several others. The different local "FAD's" of Moncharmontia might possibly be linked to latitudinal differences, i.e., an earlier evolution of the species in the near-equatorial area (Mexico, Iran) compared to the low-middle latitudinal occurrences in the peri-Mediterranean realm (e.g., Italy, Turkey). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Upper Cretaceous successions of the Arabian Platform in Batman and surroundings (SE Turkey) comprise the Garzan and Lower Germav formations. Shallow water limestones of the Garzan Formation contain rich benthic foraminiferal assemblages. The conformably overlying LowerGermav Formation consists mostly of marls and includes planktonic foraminifera, which suggest a relatively deeper marine environment. Benthic and planktonic foraminiferal assemblages fromboth formations were studied in 28 samples collected from a 155-m-thickmeasured section. Diverse benthic foraminiferal assemblages are mainly dominated by Orbitoides megaloformis Papp and Küpper, O. media (d'Archiac), Omphalocyclus anatoliensis Özcan, Dicyclina schlumbergeri Munier-Chalmas, Trochospira avnimelechi Hamaoui, Nezzazata simplex Omara, Nezzazatinella picardi (Henson), Antalyna korayi Farinacci and Köylüolu, Fleuryana adriatica (DeCastro), Biconcava bentori Hamaoui,Cuneolina pavonia d'Orbigny,C. ketini Inan, Moncharmontia apenninica (DeCastro), M. compressa (De Castro), Fissoelphidium operculiferum Smout and Vandenbroekia munieri Marie. Themajority of Late Cretaceous taxa are long-ranging. Orbitoides media and O. megaloformis within this assemblage have been documented both in the upper Campanian and Maastrichtian strata fromthe Tethyan Province. The age of theGarzan Formation is determined to be Maastrichtian based on the presence of Antalyna korayi, C. ketini and Fleuryana adriaticia. The abundance of opportunist planktonic foraminifera (i.e., biserial heterohelicids and rugoglobigerinids) throughout the Lower Germav Formation shows that the environmentwas not very deep during the deposition of the unit. Maastrichtian taxa such as Globotruncanita conica (White) and Globotruncanella minuta Caron and Gonzales Donoso appear in the middle part of the Lower Germav Formation, but these are absent from the lower part of the formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Larger benthic foraminifera from the upper Maastrichtian Auradu Formation of Somalia exhibit striking matches with the assemblages from the time-equivalent Tarbur Formation of Iran and other, but less well studied lithostratigraphic units in SE Turkey (e.g., Garzan Fm.). Some taxa, among also new ones, described from Somalia need taxonomic updates (revision, synonymy, re-instatement). Dukhania? cherchii Luger is considered a junior synonym of Acordiella? tarburensis Schlagintweit & Rashidi, and Pseudorbitolina schroederi Luger is re-instated and considered a valid taxon, different from the Campanian P. marthae Douvillé of the western Tethyan domain. The genus Cyclopsinella Galloway is reported for the first time from the upper Maastrichtian of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new larger benthic foraminifera is described as Broeckinella hensoni from the upper Maastrichtian Tarbur Formation of SW Iran (Zagros Zone). In comparison to the type species of the genus, Broeckinella arabica Henson, which also occurs in the Tarbur Formation, the new species has distinctly larger dimensions (e.g., size and thickness of test, chamber height). The first record of a microspheric specimen of B. arabica shows previously unrecorded annular chambers in the final test stage. Therefore, the generic diagnosis is herein emended. In the Tarbur Formation, both B. hensoni n. sp. and B. arabica occur in foraminiferal-algal wackestones. However, B. arabica occurs in a wider range of microfacies, including packstones and grainstones. It is assumed that Broeckinella originated in the Upper Cretaceous with Broeckinella neumannae Gendrot. The upper Albian Broeckinella aragonensis Peybernès is herein transferred to the porcellaneous genus Peneroplis Montfort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most stratigraphically representative section of Turonian–Coniacian in the right-bank part of the Volga region is found at the Kamennyi Brod-1 section (Olkhovka district of Volgograd oblast). The subdivision of carbonate rocks into zones is based on the complexes of benthic foraminifera and other accompanying groups of invertebrates. Regressive-transgressive tendencies in the evolution of the Turonian–Coniacian basin is also reflected in the quantitative ratio between benthic and planktonic foraminifera. The earlier unknown representatives of Turonian and Coniacian marine biota are revealed: silicon sponges, crinoids, starfish, brittle stars, and brachiopods. The magnetostratigraphic (magnetopolar and petromagnetic) characteristic of the section is obtained, and the magnetic zone of anomalous polarity is revealed against the background of normal polarity (N). It is supposed that anomalous directions of magnetization represent the stabilized vector sum of oppositely directed components, one of which (corresponding to reverse polarity) is the primary one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of the foraminifera of the order Rotaliida in the Upper Cretaceous reference sections of Western Siberia is analyzed. The narrow stratigraphic range of most species, a wide geographical distribution, and the reliable diagnostic characters of the majority of the Rotaliida species make them valuable stratigraphic markers and characteristic species of the Upper Cretaceous foraminiferal zonal scale. The taxonomic composition of the zonal complexes is refined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of palynological and micropaleontological studies of the Upper Cretaceous–Cenozoic strata penetrated by Boreholes 23 and 19 of the Aleiskaya area (Altai krai) are presented. The obtained data allowed us to substantiate the age of the deposits, make suggestions concerning their depositional environment, and to clarify the subdivision of geological section into formations. Two palynological assemblages were recognized in the Cretaceous part of the Borehole 23 section: the first one characterizes the Len'ki Formation and is dated as Cenomanian–Turonian; the second one is recognized in the Upper Sym Subformation and is dated as Maastrichtian. The Upper Cretaceous sequence is overlain by the terrestrial Ostrovnoe Formation (Paleogene). In Boreholes 19 and 23, this formation contains presumably Late Paleocene–Early Eocene and Middle Eocene spore and pollen spectra, respectively. Palynological data substantiate the Late Miocene age of sedimentary strata in the upper part of the geological section of Borehole 23 and their belonging to the Pavlodar Formation. The structure of the palynological assemblages, the specific features of the macerate, and the absence of foraminifers indicate the continental genesis of the Upper Cretaceous–Paleogene sedimentary deposits in the southern part of the Kulunda Depression in Altai krai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Tarbur Formation is a Reef carbonate lithostratigraphic unit that outcrops in the Zagros basin. To study biostratigraphy and lithostratigraphy of Tarbur Formation in Zagros basin, Hossein Abad Section was selected. In this section, the Tarbur Formation lies unconformably on the Pre-Campanian radiolarite beds and the Sachun Formation overlies the Tarbur Formation uncorformably. 39 foraminifera species belonging to 27 genera were identified from the Hossein Abad section in the Tarbur Formation. Orbitoides media, Orbitoides cf. concavatus, Orbitoides apiculata, Orbitoides sp., Omphalocyclus macroporus, Omphalocyclus sp., Pseudomphalocyclus blumenthalis, Lepidorbitoides sp., Antalyna korayi, Dicyclina shlumbergeri, Archaecyclus midorietalis and Goupillaudina shirazensis are the most significant foraminifers. Based on faunal assemblages, three biozones were proposed: Archaecyclus midorietalis range zone (late Campanian), Orbitoides—Goupillaudina assemblage Zone (early Maastrichtian and Antalyna korayi range subzone (late Maastrichtian). Foraminiferal assemblage of the Tarbur Formation supports late Campanian to late Maastrichtian age in section of Hossien Abad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new microgranular-imperforate foraminifera, attributed to the family Pfenderinidae, is described as Pseudochablaisia subglobosa gen. et sp. nov. from the upper Maastrichtian Tarbur Formation (Zagros Zone, SW Iran). It occurs in inner platform wackestones/packstones associated with other larger benthic foraminifera (e.g., Loftusia , Omphalocyclus , Gyroconulina) and dasycladacean green algae (e.g., Cymopolia , Dissocladella , Thyrsoporella). Pseudochablaisia gen. nov. is compared with possible ancestral morphotypes, the Middle Jurassic to Oxfordian homeomorph Chablaisia Septfontaine, 1978 and sections of a taxon classically assigned to the middle-Late Cretaceous " Nezzazatinella " Darmoian (1976) which type-material is incompletely known from loose isolated specimens. These two homeomorphic taxa and the new genus Pseudochablaisia possess a trochospirally coiled test, with a pseudokeriothecal wall texture (sometimes hardly visible). The central structure of the test comprises an umbilical ("siphonal") hollow columella in early stages continuing in a deep umbilical cavity in later stages. The chamber interior is occupied by a zone of coalescence of the septa and a septal button, lacking in sections of " Nezzazatinella ". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes and interprets Upper Cretaceous volcaniclastics interbedded with hemipelagic to pelagic limestones, marls, and turbidites from the Western Pontides, northwestern Turkey. The Dereköy Formation, the Unaz Formation (red pelagic limestone unit), and the Cambu Formation can be distinguished, overlain by the turbiditic Akveren Formation. Biostratigraphic ages from the predominantly volcaniclastic Dereköy Formation indicate Turonian (Dicarinella concavata planktonic foraminifera zone, CC13/UC8-9 nannofossil zones) to middle/late Santonian ages up to CC17/UC13. The Unaz Formation, deposited during the late Santonian (UC13, Dicarinella asymetrica Zone), is overlain by the volcaniclastic Cambu Formation of latest Santonian (CC17b/UC13) to early/middle Campanian (CC20/UC15a) age. However, turbidite intercalations are already present diachronously from CC19/UC14d onwards, and the turbiditic Akveren Formation ranges up into the late Maastrichtian (Abathomphalus mayaroensis Zone). Geochemistry of the volcaniclastic units reveals information about the volcanic series and tectonic setting, although element mobility has to be considered. An overall trend of calc-alkaline to high-K calc-alkaline series and basaltic to basalt-andesitic rock types was identified. A negative Nb anomaly with respect to Th and Ce in all samples confirms the existence of a volcanic arc, also indicated by a negative Ti anomaly. Biostratigraphic age constraints give evidence for volcanic arc activity mainly between Turonian and early Campanian, ca. 91 - 79 Ma. Various geochemical data, especially element variations normalized to N-MORB, show two types of volcanic arc basalts (VAB): (1) Calc-alkaline to high-K calc-alkaline VAB have increased Nb and Zr values, (2) more tholeiitic VABs are depleted in Nb, Zr, Ti, V. The volcaniclastics successions were deposited in an arc setting triggered by different stages of subduction of the Neotethys Ocean to the south and contemporaneous spreading in the Western Black Sea Basin to the north. An extensional regime caused formation of small but deeper-water sedimentary basins along the southern shore of the Black Sea where volcaniclastic complexes interfingered within short lateral distances with pelagic and mass-flow deposits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anew pfenderinid taxon is described as Pachycolumella nov. gen. with the two species P. elongata n. sp. (type-species), and P. acuta n. sp. The type material comes from the upperMaastrichtian Tarbur Formation of the Zagros Zone, SWIran. Areconstruction of Pachycolumella nov. gen is presented including allmorpho-structural elements such as a conspicuous central columella. The wall of the elongate and triserially coiled test is microgranular-agglutinated displaying a pseudokeriothecal texture. Pachycolumella species are also reported from the Paleocene (Danian-early Thanetian) of Turkey,Oman, Iran (this paper), India, and Pakistan, thus representing aK-Pg survivor taxon. In Iran Pachycolumella is reported from various localities belonging to both the former northern and the southern Neo-Tethyan margin. In the western Neo-Tethyan realm (e.g., Adriatic Carbonate Platform), Pachycolumella seems to be absent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anew larger benthic foraminifera is here described as Neodubrovnikella maastrichtiana n. gen., n. sp. from thin-sections of the upperMaastrichtian Tarbur Formation of southwestern Iran (Zagros Zone). This Maastrichtian genus is homeomorphic to the Middle Jurassic Dubrovnikella Schlagintweit and Velié. Differences are due to the type of foramina and the coarseness/fineness of the pores in the wall. Neodubrovnikella n. gen. represents the second taxon ascribed to the Biokovinidae besides Zagrosella Schlagintweit and Rashidi due to the presence of a pseudokeriothecal wall texture. Representatives of this family exhibited a latest Cretaceous "revival" before finally becoming extinct at the K/Pg boundary. In agglutinating conical forms however the pseudokeriotheca may be still present in the Early Paleogene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a biostratigraphic scheme for the Upper Cretaceous of the East European Platform on the basis of the distribution in the sections of three groups of microfossils: foraminifera (both planktonic and benthic), radiolarians, and nannoplankton. Most of the stage and substage boundaries are confirmed by macropaleontological data. The most divided units are those distinguished based on benthic foraminifers and nannoplankton. The diversity of these microfossils and their constant presence allowed us to identify zones and subzones, while it is possible to subdivide only the beds by planktonic foraminifers and radiolarians. The most favorable stages in the development of plankton biota can be considered the Turonian-Coniacian interval when the basins of the East European Platform experienced an intensive influence from warm waters of the Tethys Ocean. The global Campanian cooling is clearly recorded, which affected the taxonomic diversity of all microfossil groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sequence biostratigraphic analysis has been done for the Upper Cretaceous-Lower Paleogene sedimentary outcrops at Wadi Raha, Sudr El-Hetan and Wadi El-Giddi areas in west-central Sinai. The sequences are subdivided into four carbonate rock units; from base to top: the Wata, Themed, Sudr and Waseiyit formations. The biostratigraphic analysis of the studied samples led to the identification of two main planktonic foraminiferal zones, three benthic foraminiferal zones with the ammonite zone. Eleven microfacies associations are recorded in the rock units. Nine constitutes a limestone facies with one constitutes a dolostone facies and one a claystone facies. The stratigraphic data, and the facies study support the identification of three major breaks (sequence boundaries) and four depositional sequences. The depositional sequences are subdivided into four supercycles and seven cycles of 3rd order. The oldest break (∼90-88.5Ma.) exists at the top of the Wata Formation coincides with the intra Turonian drop in the global sea level with the initiation of the Syrian Arc inversion phase. The second major break (85 - ∼75Ma.) coincides with the major inversion phase and the evolution of the doubly plunging anticlines. The third major break (∼68 through ∼53Ma.) represents the last phase of the Syrian Arc inversion and complete the missing of Paleocene sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new larger benthic foraminifer is described as Braciana jelaskai n. gen., n. sp. from lower Campanian shallow-water foraminiferal wackestones to packstones of the island of Brač, Croatia. The Late Cretaceous Braciana is roughly homeomorphic to the Liassic taxa Lituolipora (type-species L. polymorpha Gušić & Velić) and Paleomayncina Septfontaine (type-species Mayncina termieri Hottinger). The generic differences to these taxa and other allied forms are discussed. Braciana jelaskai was confused with Pseudocyclammina sphaeroidea Gendrot in the literature with occurrences in the Santonian(?) of Slovenia and Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kocaeli Peninsula (NW Turkey) provides one of the best exposed deep marine Upper Cretaceous-Palaeocene sections in north-western Anatolia. The biostratigraphic framework from three sections, namely Belen, Bulduk, and Toylar, in the southern part of the Kocaeli Peninsula is established by means of planktonic foraminifera. A very rich planktonic foraminiferal assemblage analysed both in thin sections and washed residues records a biozonation ranging from the Contusotruncana contusa (CF6) Zone (Maastrichtian) to the Globanomalina pseudomenardii (P4) Zone (Thanetian). Although a major part of the biozones in the studied interval is clearly defined, the upper three zones (CF1-3) of the latest Maastrichtian and the P0 and P1a zones of the earliest Palaeocene cannot be recognised. These unrecorded biozones are either completely missing or occurred within a very condensed interval in the studied sections. A hardground layer characterised by oxidation and extensive bioturbation might indicate a possible biostratigraphic gap spanning the CF1-3 zones of the uppermost Maastrichtian in the Belen and Bulduk sections. In the Toylar section, on the other hand, the CF1-3 zones still cannot be detected although a hardground layer is not observed. The biostratigraphic resolution across the Cretaceous-Palaeogene (K-Pg) boundary in the studied sections cannot be improved due to the condensed and well-cemented pelagic carbonates of the boundary interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biostratigraphic importance, current zonations, and potential for the recognition of the standard chronostratigraphic boundaries of five palaeontological groups (benthic foraminifers, ammonites, belemnites, inoceramid bivalves and echinoids), critical for the stratigraphy of the Santonian through Maastrichtian (Upper Cretaceous) of extra-Carpathian Poland, are presented and discussed. The summary is based on recent studies in selected sections of southern Poland (Nida Synclinorium; Puławy Trough including the Middle Vistula River composite section; and Mielnik and Kornica sections of south-eastern Mazury-Podlasie Homocline) and of western Ukraine (Dubivtsi). The new zonation based on benthic forams is presented for the entire interval studied. Zonations for ammonites, belemnites and inoceramid bivalves are compiled. All stage boundaries, as currently defined or understood, may easily be constrained or precisely located with the groups discussed: the base of the Santonian with the First Occurrence (FO) of the inoceramid Cladoceramus undulatoplicatus; the base of the Campanian with the Last Occurrence (LO) of the crinoid Marsupites testudinarius and approximated by the range of the foraminifer Stensioeina pommerana; and the base of the Maastrichtian approximated by the FO of the inoceramid bivalve Endocostea typica and the FO of the belemnite Belemnella vistulensis. The positions of substage boundaries, as currently understood, are constrained in terms of the groups discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The larger benthic foraminifera Cretaciclavulina gusici n. gen., n, sp. is described from the lower Campanian Pucisca Formation of the Island of Brae, Croatia. With its elongate test, trochospiral to uniserial coiling, simple chambers, paraporous wall structure, and areal aperture provided with a cribrate apertural plate, Cretaciclavulina is tentatively placed into the family Valvulinidae BERTHELIN, 1880. Besides Neobalkhaniab/gnof/CHERCHI, RADOlClC &SCHROEDER, 1991, Fleuryana adriatica DE CASTRO, DROBNE & GllSlC, 1994, and Reticulinella fleuryiCVETKO, GUSIC & SCHROEDER, 1997, Cretaciclavulina gusici represents the fourth benthic foraminifera newly described from the Upper Cretaceous shallow-water carbonates of Brae Island. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphogroup and biofacies analyses were conducted on strata of the Upper Cretaceous (Turonian) Ferron-Notom delta, Central Utah, USA. This study investigates associations between ancient deltaic environments and foraminiferal and testate amoebae assemblages with an assessment of their ecological zonation based on their extant Holocene counterparts. Sixty-six hand samples of mudstone were collected from the three outcrops (Caineville North, Blue Hills, and Steamboat) along strike and dip profiles. Morphological analysis showed four morphogroups with eleven morphotypes of foraminifera and testate amoebae reflecting relationships between test morphology and depositional environment. Morphotypes were used to define the main biofacies of the study sections using cluster analysis. Due to a possible fossilization biases with the calcareous foraminiferal fraction, the biodiversity index is only used as relative measure in defining biofacies. Despite this possible taphonomic bias, the agglutinated foraminifera and testate amoebae morphogroups show plausible trends of salinity both among the outcrops and stratigraphically within each outcrop. The Blue Hills outcrop represents the most landward and thus the lowest salinity environment (tidally-influenced backwater), Steamboat is more coast proximal with a slightly higher salinity found in the delta front and the fluvial/estuarine environment, while the Caineville North outcrop represents the most coast proximal with the highest salinity of the prodelta/delta front and fluvial/estuarine environment. It appears that landward and coastward transport of tests led to a taphonomic bias. Nonetheless, the assemblages provide useful information that correlates with previously documented, lithofacies data. A salinity index, which is a ratio of trochospiral taxa versus testate amoebae taxa, provides a useful measure of coastal proximity that matches lithofacies trends. In addition, an Organic Matter (OM) index, which is the ratio of bolivinid-type taxa versus trochospiral taxa shows relationships with original probable OM content of the sediment inferred from the lithofacies and the plant macrofossils. • Testate amoebae in the Cretaceous show ecological trends with recent estuarine systems. • Cluster analysis of morphogroups corresponds with lithofacies and sequence boundaries. • Taphonomic transport of testate amoebae basinward is similar to Holocene examples. • Caution should be used when interpreting a marine context for testate amoebae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first occurrence (FO) of Marthasterites furcatus was correlated with the FOs of other nannofossils, inoceramid bivalves and foraminifers in the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin and Outer Flysch Carpathians. The correlation showed that the FO of M. furcatus was diachronous, becoming younger from east to west. In the Silesian Unit it appears in the lower Turonian in association with Eprolithus moratus (UC6b nannofossil Zone). In the Pavlovské vrchy klippes it appears in the upper middle Turonian together with Lithastrinus septenarius (UC9 Zone). In the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin, the FO of M. furcatus was observed in the lower upper Turonian just above the FO of Liliasterites angularis. The presence of M. furcatus in Turonian strata is scarce and discontinuous up to its sudden quantitative increase (represented by 5–27% in assemblages) below the FO of the inoceramid bivalve species Cremnoceramus waltersdorfensis and C. deformis erectus in the Turonian–Coniacian boundary interval. The top of the M. furcatus acme was recorded below the FO of Micula staurophora. The second quantitative rise of M. furcatus (12% in assemblage) was found in the lower lower Campanian of the Pavlovské vrchy klippes above the FO of Broinsonia parca parca in the UC14a Zone and the last occurrence of the planktonic foraminifer Whiteinella baltica. Above this second acme M. furcatus disappears. The significantly earlier appearance of M. furcatus in the Silesian Basin may be connected with a southeast-heading surface current from the North European epicontinental sea where the species appeared in the early Turonian too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Foraminiferal assemblages from a Santonian–Campanian submarine fan system in the northwestern Vøring Basin, offshore Norway were investigated with the primary objectives to document the stratigraphic ranges of foraminiferal taxa calibrated with dinoflagellate cysts, and to interpret foraminiferal biofacies of different fan sub-environments previously proposed based on the analysis of ichnofossils. The assemblages are composed of deep-water agglutinated foraminifera (DWAF) without carbonate-cemented taxa. DWAF taxa of high biostratigraphic value are absent, but the complete agglutinated nature of the assemblages and the presence of Gerochammina stanislawi and Rectogerochammina eugubina are similar to those of the lower Campanian Fenestrella bellii Zone of the Norwegian Sea. More reliable dating was provided by palynology, and the age of the interval is estimated to be Santonian to Campanian. The inner to middle fan assemblages contain small numbers of specimens, and consequently the species diversity and relative abundance of morphogroups are inconsistent. Deep infaunal forms may be more common in this sub-environment, but because the abundance is low, this observation should be treated carefully. In contrast, the abundance and diversity of the assemblages of the overbank, fringe and basin plain sub-environments are fairly high. Their morphogroup composition is also similar and comparable to each other when the assemblage size is large. The assemblage from the interval with suggested hydrothermal activity is similar to those from outside the channel sub-environment. The presence of bottom water currents, possibly in the form of a western boundary current, in the basin is suggested based on the abundant occurrence of tubular forms in the overbank, fringe, and basin plain sub-environments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The central idea of this article is the obligation of a micropaleontologist to respect without any doubt the rules and demands stipulated by the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN), in order to avoid taxonomical mistakes. An unusual example of confusion generated by disregard for the ICZN Code rules is the case of Rosalina marginata REUSS. The species Rosalina marginata REUSS, 1845 emend. REUSS, 1854 is here transferred to the genus Dicarinella. Other specimens illustrated as "Marginotruncana marginata" for example the "neotype" established by Jirova (1956) are placed in the new species Marginotruncana pseudomarginata nom. novum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]