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In the present pioneering and comprehensive study from offshore of the northeast Indian Ocean on the sediment core drilled in the Andaman and Nicobar Basin (NGHP-01-17A), four radiolarian events/zones have been identified from 684.09–220.37 mbsf. At 8.77 Ma, the first occurrence (FO) of Diartus hughesi and evolutionary transition (ET) from Didymocyrtis laticonus to Didymocyrtis antepenultima morphotypes of radiolarians have been recognized. The last occurrence, i.e., LO of Diartus hughesi has been demarcated at 7.70 Ma. The evolutionary transition (ET) from Didymocyrtis antepenultima to Didymocyrtis penultima morphotypes has been marked at ~7.63 Ma. At 6.71 Ma, ET from Diartus delmontensis to Stichocorys peregrina and ET from Didymocyrtis penultima to Didymocyrtis avita morphotypes have been recognized. Some biostratigraphically important radiolarian species in the assemblage are Acrobotrys disolenia, Botryostrobus auritus–australis, Cornutella profunda, Siphocampe lineate, Acrobotrys cribosa, Acrobotrys tritubus, Anthocyrtidium zanguebaricum, Eucyrtidium acuminatum, etc. The analyzed section of the core has been dated as Tortonian–Messinian and the age for the base of the sediment core (684.09 mbsf) is estimated as 9.86 Ma, and the topmost sample (220.37 mbsf) is assignable to an age around 6.71 Ma or slightly younger. It has been observed that the overall preservation quality, diversity, and abundance of radiolarians are moderate to good during the Tortonian period in comparison to the Messinian period. This may be correlated to the high sedimentation rate, ocean upwelling, and high nutrient supply during Tortonian. Analysis of the nassellaria/spumellaria ratio of radiolarians indicates that nassellarians are predominant over spumellarians throughout the studied sequence, indicating a deep-water environment. To quantify the diversity and dominance of radiolarian taxa, a diversity analysis has been conducted, correlating it with the silicified phytoplankton – diatoms from the same sequence. From a palaeogeographic point of view, the radiolarian assemblage, as well as the occurrence of index radiolarian taxa, the correlation has been made with the earlier reported late Miocene assemblages from different deep-sea drilling sites of the Indian Ocean, Equatorial Pacific Ocean, and South China Sea as well as recorded earlier from the outcrops of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new bear specimen was recovered from the Ghurban site near the Sakhi Sarwar area in Koh-Sulaiman, Pakistan. The fossil site belongs to the Litra Formation dated as Late Miocene (11–6 Ma). The Koh Sulaiman range comprises Permo-Triassic to Quaternary deposits with a rich fossil record. Fossils of mammalian families, including Elephantidae, Suidae, Equidae, Cervidae, Bovidae, and Tragulidae, are reported from the Sulaiman range. Here, we describe a fossil specimen of the family Ursidae belonging to the genus Indarctos based on a comparative analysis of dental morphological and metric dimensions with other taxa and assigned to species I. cf. atticus. This research aims to report the first document of Indarctos from there and update its stratigraphic distribution from the Koh-Sulaiman Range, South Punjab, Pakistan. The paleoenvironment during the Late Miocene of the Litra Formation in the Ghurban site suggests an open habitat, with a cooler climate than before, prominence of the monsoon system, and expansion of C4 grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed taxonomic study of fossil mammals from five different localities including Nagri, Padhri, Markhal, Dhok Pathan type locality and Hasnot, from the Miocene of Middle Siwalik, Punjab, Pakistan, has been conducted. Bovidae described here are represented by thirty-six specimens including horns core, isolated teeth, fragments of maxilla and mandibles. Thirteen specimens belong to Gazella lydekkeri, including one horn core which are described first time from the Padhri and Markhal localities. Additionally, ten specimens belong to Pachyportax latidens and three specimens belong to Selenoportax vexillarius. Quantitatively, the bovids were more distributed than other taxa, provide evidence of medium (Gazella) size bovids from the Middle Miocene mammalian fauna. The palaeoenvironment of Nagri Formation was most humid with extensive forest and grasslands, while Dhok Pathan Formation has fluvial deposits indicating a wetland environment with mosaic of marshes, forests and woodlands. The dominance of fossil specimens of family Bovidae suggests an extremely moist environment with small, abundant standing water bodies. Biogeographically, the Miocene mammalian fauna of the Middle Siwalik resembled to Eurasian and African Miocene fossil localities. The composition of fauna from our studied sites suggests Late Miocene age. The described fossil remains indicate that large-sized fauna was present here during the Miocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Brachypotherium is an extinct rhinoceros that has been mainly found in the Miocene in Eurasia and Africa. Among of them, the taxonomic status of the East Asian Brachypotherium is controversial. Here, the study re-describes tooth fragments of rhinoceros from the Upper Miocene locality in Japan. This specimen (KPM-NNV 50) has been previously identified as Brachypotherium sp. Compared with the Asian Miocene rhinoceros, KPM-NNV 50 is re-identified as Aceratheriinae gen. et sp. indet. in this study. Both previous studies and the present study suggest that the Late Miocene Japanese rhinoceroses are ranging from about 10 Ma to 5.5 Ma, indicating that a large gap of the rhinocerotid fossil records (16 Ma to 10 Ma) between the Early and Late Miocene. We summarise the taxonomic status of Brachypotherium in East Asia, resulting that the East Asian ‘Brachypotherium’ are possibly different species. The present study confirms that the genus Brachypotherium existed throughout the Miocene in Europe, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, and possibly persisted into the African Pliocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New cervid and bovid material from Yongdeng, Gansu Province, China, is described here. It should be attributed to Cervavitus cf. C. shanxius and 'Gazella' paotehensis. At least 12 mammal species occur at the Xingjiawan locality, and the coexistence of Stegodon sp., Chilotherium habereri, Chleuastochoerus stehlini, Cervavitus cf. C. shanxius, and 'Gazella' paotehensis indicates a typical Baodean fauna. Age of Xingjiawan mammalian assemblage is also supported by the reinterpretation of the palaeomagnetic correlation, about 6.54 to 6.62 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed taxonomic study of all known fossil specimens assigned to Procyonidae from sediments of Cerro Azul Formation (early Huayquerian Stage/Age, Late Miocene) outcroping at La Pampa and Buenos Aires provinces (Argentina) is presented here. Our study led us to propose a new species, Cyonasua zettii sp. nov. coming from La Pampa Province. In addition another six specimens studied, coming from La Pampa and Buenos Aires provinces, are assigned to Cyonasua longirostris and four specimens are assigned to Cyonasua sp. because its fragmentary nature prevents a determination at species level. The specimens described here are among the oldest records for the Order Carnivora (Mammalia) in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a detailed taxonomic study of mammalian fossil fauna from five localities situated within the Middle Siwalik subgroup including the Nagri and Dhok Pathan formations in Punjab, Pakistan. Twenty‐three euungulate specimens comprised of isolated teeth, and maxillary and mandibular fragments, are described. This collection includes the bovid, Elachistoceras; a very rare faunal element in the Siwaliks of Pakistan, as well as Elachistoceras khauristanensis, Pachyportax latidens, Giraffa punjabiensis, Bramatherium grande, Merycopotamus dissimilis, Dorcatherium minus, Dorcatherium majus, Hippopotamodon sivalense, Sivalhippus theobaldi, Sivalhippus nagriensis and Brachypotherium perimense These fossil remains add important new insights into the taxonomy and diversity of Late Miocene mammal faunas of the Middle Siwaliks. The data is important for understanding the biogeographical and palaeoenvironmental history of the region. The characteristics of the fossils described in this study further support the currently hypothesised presence of a massive open land environment with variable wet and dry seasons alike to that of the current climate in Eurasia and Africa. The variable habitat niches of these co‐existing fauna also give further support to the supposition that there was a much more mixed array of palaeoenvironments ranging from a prevalence of woodland to expansive savannah territory during the deposition of Nagri and Dhok Pathan formations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcupines, members of the Hystricidae family, represent a unique group of herbivorous mammals. This study details the identification of a newly discovered mandible fragment of Hystrix primigenia, along with a right cheek tooth series from the middle Turolian Kemiklitepe‐A fossil locality. While Hystrix fossils are found in numerous localities, the materials are often limited to a few dental fragments or isolated teeth, posing challenges to systematic investigations. The examination of this lower tooth series prompted a comprehensive review of all H. primigenia findings across Eurasia, shedding light on its adaptive characteristics over time and space. Our paleobiogeographical analysis indicates the absence of H. depereti in Late Miocene Türkiye, while the dispersal range of H. primigenia is broader than that of H. depereti in Eurasia. Additionally, the study delves into the discussion of H. primigenia and H. depereti findings in Eurasia, ultimately refining the categorization of Late Miocene Hystrix discoveries in Türkiye to two species: H. primigenia and H. kayae. Our review suggests the possibility of an additional H. kayae finding from Samos, Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Myrtaceae family is predominantly distributed in the Southern Hemisphere, in particular in Australia and South America. This study describes two fossil woods with distinctive Myrtaceae anatomy from the Late Miocene of South America. The specimens were preserved by siliceous cellular permineralization. The anatomic features of Uruguayanoxylon ragoneseae sp. nov. and Uruguayanoxylon aff. striata Bolzon & Cardoso Marchiori 2002, were described in detail. Uruguaianoxylon ragoneseae sp. nov. shows strong similarities to Myrcia DC. ex Guill., while Uruguaianoxylon aff. striata is more closely related to Blepharocalyx salicifolius (Kunth) O. Ber. The presence of Myrtaceae fossil woods in the Miocene sediments of Entre Ríos, Argentina, expands our understanding of their evolutionary history and palaeobiogeography, indicating wider historical distributions potentially linked to humid or seasonally dry tropical and subtropical forests. These results underline the significant climatic and environmental changes that have occurred since the Miocene and have influenced the distribution and diversity of Myrtaceae species. Also, their remarkable ability to adapt to different humid conditions. This study provides new insights into the taxonomic composition of the palaeoflora in the Ituzaingó Formation from Entre Ríos Province, Argentina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the archaic arvicoline-like cricetid rodent Microtodon is described from the Hoye Canyon Local Fauna (LF), Douglas County, Nevada, U.S.A. This occurrence represents the first record of Microtodon and only the second record of ancient arvicolid-like cricetids from North America. The first, Ellesmereomys haringtoni, was described from the Strathcona locality, Canadian Arctic, about 4.0 Ma. The new Microtodon is characterised by a short anteroconid complex, shallow fourth lingual re-entrant angle (LRA4), and narrow anteroconid width on the first lower molar (m1). The new species resembles other Microtodon species and differs from Baranomys and all Promimomys species by lacking LRA1 on m3. Based on biostratigraphic correlations, the Hoye Canon LF was deposited about 5.8–5.6 Ma, roughly at the same time as the first Promimomys, P. mimus from the McKay Reservoir assemblage of Oregon, entered North America. Neither the Hoye Microtodon nor Ellesmereomys haringtoni are likely ancestral to Promimomys, but the two arvicoline-like cricetids attest to a previously unknown late Miocene – early Pliocene dispersal of these taxa into North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Höyük is the property of Turkish Historical Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The charismatic sabretooth cat Amphimachairodus has numerous but largely fragmentary records across late Miocene deposits of Africa, Eurasia and North America. The genus has a complex taxonomic history, and the majority of Amphimachairodus materials come from isolated localities, often studied without stratigraphic context. Here, we analyse the long, continuous records from the classic Chinese Baode strata, which produce Amphimachairodus throughout the section, and demonstrate that an A. palanderi-horribilis chronospecies succession represents a continuum of in situ anagenetic evolution of increasing size. We then synthesise chronological occurrences of Amphimachairodus from all Holarctic records and reframe their evolution as a case of chronospecies succession. Two parallel anagenetic lineages are evident: a Eurasian A. giganteus-palanderi-horribilis chronospecies succession and second, a North American A. coloradensis-alvarezi chronospecies succession following an immigration event in the early Hemphillian. In addition to greater hypercarnivory evidenced by dental specialisation, the Eurasian lineage shows a trend towards a large body size, whereas the North American lineage decreases in size. We take this opportunity to describe materials of Amphimachairodus alvarezi from Yepómera (latest Hemphillian) in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, and previously undescribed materials from San Miguel de Allende Basin. We review taxonomic status of Chinese A. horribilis and related taxa.

Fragments of two skulls of young cetotheriid baleen whales were described from the Fortep'yanka 2 locality (Russia, Republic of Adygea, Maikop district, Fortep'yanka River valley, Upper Miocene, Upper Sarmatian, Blinovskaya Formation). The finds were attributed to Kurdalagonus maicopicus (Spasskii, 1951) based on the morphology of the posterior (mastoid) process of the petrosal bone, the structure of the posterior edge of the temporal fossa, and the S-like shape of the supraoccipital ridges. The skull proportions and the degree of suture closure made it possible to determine the individual age of the whales within a year. New finds significantly complement the data on the structure of the sutures of the lateral wall of the skull and age-related variability of cranial morphology in representatives of the genus Kurdalagonus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arcuate Mazatagh thrust belt (MTB) in the central Tarim Basin is one of the key regions for understanding the Cenozoic intracontinental deformation in response to the India–Eurasia collision. However, whether it was formed due to oroclinal bending and its kinematic processes remain unclear. Here, we present a detailed paleomagnetic rotation study at Hongbaishan in the middle MTB to shed new light on the deformation in this region. Positive fold and reversal tests of 50 site means suggest primary magnetizations. The paleomagnetic declinations indicate ∼14.6 ± 8.5° absolute clockwise rotation at Hongbaishan since the late Miocene (∼7.6 Ma). Together with the rotation results calculated from Hongbaishan‐1 and Mazatagh magnetostratigraphic data sets in the southeastern MTB, these results reveal an increasing magnitude of clockwise rotation along the belt toward its southeastern tip. Positive oroclinal tests along the MTB suggest the occurrence of oroclinal bending that curved the originally straight MTB before and during the deposition of its lower part, and nearly half of the bending had occurred during the deposition of its upper part. This oroclinal bending is mostly attributed to the northward indentation of the West Kunlun Mountains along the décollement salt‒gypsum layers and further implies ∼7.9° absolute clockwise rotation of the Tarim Basin since the late Miocene. Integrating these findings with other lines of geological evidence around the Tarim Basin, we propose that episodic widespread tectonic deformation with basinward propagation occurred since the late Miocene due to the far‐field effect of the continuous northward indentation of the Indian Plate into Eurasia. Plain Language Summary: To understand the process of formation of the arcuate Mazatagh thrust belt and the far‐field effect of the India–Eurasia collision, we investigated the vertical‐axis rotations (VARs) of the Hongbaishan, Hongbaishan‐1 and Mazatagh profiles along the Mazatagh thrust belt in the central Tarim Basin via detailed paleomagnetic studies. The results reveal an increasing magnitude of clockwise rotation from northwest to southeast along the belt and indicate the occurrence of oroclinal bending of the Mazatagh thrust belt since the late Miocene (∼7.6 Ma). This oroclinal bending was probably attributed to the northward indentation of the northeastward convex West Kunlun terrane along the décollement salt‒gypsum layers to the interior of the Tarim Basin since the late Miocene, as they share similar geometric features. Together with other available geological evidence within and around the Tarim Basin, widespread episodic tectonic deformation with basinward propagation since the late Miocene is proposed as the distant response of India's indentation into the Asian continent. Key Points: ∼14.6 ± 8.5° absolute clockwise rotation occurred in middle Mazatagh thrust belt after the late Miocene (∼7.6 Ma)Increasing clockwise rotation to the southeast is attributed to the oroclinal bending of the Mazatagh thrust belt since the late MioceneLate Miocene oroclinal bending of Mazatagh was due to northward indentation of West Kunlun Mountains in response to India–Eurasia collision [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A mammutid is described here for the first time from the Late Miocene (MN12 equivalent) deposits of Abkhareh village, Varzeghan region, in the North-Western part of Iran. It is identified as “Mammut” cf. obliquelophus and is represented by an isolated and moderately worn upper third molar with a zygodont crown pattern typical of mammutids. In addition, two upper incisors found associated with the molar and probably belonging to the same individual are assigned as Mammut. The studied material expands the geographic distribution of “Mammut” obliquelophus into Western Asia.

Anatolia has played a crucial role as a crossroads for the evolution of terrestrial mammals throughout the paleogeographic history of the Eurasian and African faunas. The fossil record of equids is significant in tracing intercontinental dispersal patterns by contributing to the evaluation of evolutionary processes and biochronological correlations. Systematic studies on fossil Equidae taxons contribute to elucidating the connections between their functional anatomies, age distributions, the paleoenvironments of faunas, and regional climate changes. The Hipparion taxon, known as the three-toed horses of the Late Miocene, was first observed in the early Vallesian in Anatolia and exhibited significant diversity, especially during the Turolian. In this context, studying Anatolian faunas is notable for understanding Eurasian Hipparion evolution and for Equidae systematic paleontolog y studies. Hippotherium brachypus is known as the large hipparionine species of the Turolian and was first reported from Pikermi. This paper discusses the presence of the Hippotherium brachypus and the paleoenvironments of regions based on the systematics of maxillary specimens as well as isolated series collected from the Late Miocene mammal localities of Muğla-Yatağan-Şerefköy (MN12), Uşak-Eşme-Kemiklitepe (MN11-12), and Kütahya-Bayat (MN11-12). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palaeogiraffa is a poorly understood giraffid genus from the Vallesian of Axios Valley (Northern Greece), Turkish Thrace and Central Turkey. The Axios Valley remains come from three non-contemporaneous Vallesian faunas from the localities: Pentalophos, Ravin de la Pluie, and Xirochori, whereas the Turkish remains come from the Vallesian faunas of Middle Sinap, Yulafli, and Küçükçekmece. Remains from Pentalophos and Ravin de la Pluie were described as congeneric with the Iberian Deccenatherium, although they were later attributed to a new, distinct genus known by three different species: Palaeogiraffa macedoniae , Palaeogiraffa pamiri , and Palaeogiraffa major. The type species of the genus, Pg. macedoniae, was based on the most abundant Pentalophos material, while the rest of the species was established mainly on size difference criteria. Here we provide a review of the Palaeogiraffa material in order to (i) test its validity, (ii) re-discuss hypotheses about the genus phylogenetic relationships with other Late Miocene giraffids, and (iii) re-explore intrageneric diversity and number of recognized species based on the available Eastern Mediterranean samples. We confirm Palaeogiraffa as a distinct genus from other Late Miocene giraffids based on its unique proportions, as well as its dental and postcranial morphology. Furthermore, we endorse the likelihood of Palaeogiraffa being phylogenetically linked to the sivatherine lineage, based mainly on its dental and metatarsal morphological features. The generic attribution of specimens from Xirochori, Ravin de la Pluie, Middle Sinap, Yulafli and Küçükçekmece to Palaeogiraffa is adequately supported by the present data. Nevertheless, the recognition of three species is more open to discussion, though they should be retained until more material is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe Phalacrocorax bakonyiensis n. sp. an extinct member of the cormorants (Phalacrocoracidae). The fossil was found in 2021 by geologist János Futó in the sediments of a small cave cavity on the side of Várhegy in Sümeg, a part of the Bakony Mountains of West Hungary, where Late Miocene (MN11–12) vertebrate fossils have been found in the past decades. The total number of bone fragments collected was 14, of which only three can be identified. Two of these belong to adults and one, due to its poor preservation and size, to a very young specimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No suid remains have been reported from the Miocene site of Can Missert (Terrassa; Vallès-Penedès Basin, NE Iberian Peninsula), variously correlated to MN7+8 (late Aragonian) or MN9 (early Vallesian) due to the uncertain presence of hipparionin equids. The recent donation of fossils collected decades ago by amateur naturalists has confirmed the presence of Hippotherium and enabled the description of a sample of 27 suid teeth from Can Missert 2. They are here attributed to the suine Propotamochoerus palaeochoerus and the tetraconodontine Parachleuastochoerus valentini, while Listriodon splendens is also recorded from Can Missert based on a previously unpublished male upper canine. The co-occurrence of Pr. palaeochoerus and hipparionins at Can Missert strengthens the view that the former is a biochronological marker of the Vallesian. In turn, the described tetraconodontine remains support the distinction of Pa. valentini from Conohyus simorrensis—considered its senior subjective synonym by some authors—but do not contribute to the ongoing debate about their potential congeneric status. The co-occurrence of Pr. palaeochoerus and Pa. valentini has also been recorded from the earliest Vallesian sites of Creu de Conill 20 and Castell de Barberà within the same basin. However, the composition of the Can Missert 2 suid assemblage more clearly differs from that of Castell de Barberà, where both Listriodon splendens and Albanohyus castellensis are also abundant. Given the restricted size of Can Missert sample, it is uncertain whether such differences are indicative of more open and/or seasonal paleoenvironmental conditions at Can Missert or just the result of sampling biases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The provenance of the Upper Miocene sandstones from the Sava and Drava depressions of the North Croatian Basin was investigated using petrographic, geochemical, and heavy mineral analyses, including Raman spectroscopy. The study of these sandstones, which represent important oil and gas reservoirs in Croatia, allowed the reconstruction of the Late Miocene source-to-sink model of the Lake Pannon drainage system and the evolution of the southwestern Pannonian Basin. The studied feldspatho-litho-quartzose sandstones consist of a mixture of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous detritus. Heavy-mineral assemblages are dominated by almandine-rich garnet with apatite, epidote, tourmaline, rutile, zircon, staurolite, and zoisite, indicative of low to medium-grade metamorphic source rocks. Higher concentrations of Ca and Mg than in the Upper Continental Crust standard (UCC) additionally reflect the abundance of limestone and dolostone rock fragments as well as carbonate cement. Geochemical compositional variations between sandstone samples from the Sava and Drava depressions primarily stem from diagenetic processes. CIX and alpha values indicate only minor weathering. Compositional features indicate an orogenic source located in the Eastern Alps and primarily represented by Austroalpine and Penninic nappes. This research offers a novel perspective to distinguish the Upper Miocene reservoirs from other sedimentary units within the basin, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the regional geological dynamics and supporting future exploration projects also related to energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rudarsko-Geolosko-Naftni Zbornik is the property of Faculty of Mining, Geology & Petroleum Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Spanish Journal of Palaeontology is the property of Socieadad Espanola de Paleontologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Chelydropsis is a genus of the clade Pan-Chelydridae, which existed and was distributed in Eurasia from the Eocene to the end of the Pliocene. The Chelydropsis fossil record of North of the Alps is particularly rich throughout the Miocene. In this study, we describe a new Chelydropsis species from the Late Miocene (Vallesian, MN9) fossiliferous site of Höwenegg in southwestern Germany. The new species is based on a nearly complete Chelydropsis skeleton, which stands out among the best preserved and most complete specimens ever found until now. The new species, Chelydropsis heweneggensis sp. nov. is of particular importance. It differs from the coeval Chelydropsis murchisoni, which recent studies suggest is the only Chelydropsis species known to have existed in Europe from the Middle Miocene to the Pliocene. The species described herein thus adds to the diversity of the European Neogene Chelydropsis record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Liupan Mountains, one of the important mountain ranges in western China, are located on the boundary between the northeastern Tibetan Plateau and the Ordos Block. The uplift history of the Liupan Mountains remains controversial. Loess deposits are good tracers of regional tectonic and geomorphic changes, because loess is sensitive to erosion and the formation and preservation of loess requires relatively flat highlands and relatively stable tectonic environments. We investigated the distribution of Neogene loess deposits on the western piedmont of the Liupan Mountains and examined a near-continuous loess section (Nanping section) on the piedmont alluvial highlands. Correlation of magnetic susceptibility stratigraphy with the QA-I Miocene loess sequence dates this 56-m section covering the interval from ~8.1 to 6.2 Ma. The lower boundary age of this section, together with previously reported Zhuanglang red clay (sand-gravel layers with intercalated loess during ~9–8 Ma and near-continuous loess during ~8–4.8 Ma) and Chaona red clay (~8.1–2.58 Ma), indicates that the Liupan Mountains were uplifted in the late Miocene (~9–8 Ma) and basically formed by ~8 Ma, attesting to no intense mountain building since that time. In addition, based on the information from the Zhuanglang core and the QA-I section, we infer that sizable parts of the Liupan Mountains were uplifted during the late Oligocene–early Miocene and did not experience intense uplift during ~22–9 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though the records of Tetraploa spores from Mesozoic and Cenozoic sedimentary strata along with spore-pollen assemblages are numerous and well documented, no foliicolus Tetraploa macroconidia have been reported to date. Here, we report the first occurrence of conidia assignable to modern Tetraploa Berk. & Broome (Tetraplosphaeriaceae: Pleosporales: Dothideomycetes) on cuticular fragments of compressed monocot leaf recovered from the middle Siwalik sediments (Late Miocene; 12–8 Ma) of Himachal Himalaya, India. We determine their taxonomic position based on detailed macromorphological comparison with similar modern and fossil taxa and discuss their palaeoecological significance in terms of the present-day ecological conditions of modern analogues. This finding also represents an essential data source for understanding Tetraploa 's evolution and diversification in deep time. • The first fossil evidence of foliicolous anamorphic Tetraploa. • Determine their taxonomic position based on macromorphological comparison with similar modern and fossil taxa. • Represents an essential source of data for understanding Tetraploa 's evolution and diversification in deep time. • Interpret paleoecology in Himachal Siwalik. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Çorakyerler fossil locality in Anatolia reveals unique faunal elements. This study introduces Hystrix kayae sp. nov., a new Late Miocene porcupine initially classified as Hystrix sp. Yavuz et al., 2018. This finding expands our knowledge of Late Miocene Anatolian porcupines, bringing the total number of known species to three. H. kayae sp. nov. is larger than Hystrix aryanensis and exhibits greater upper cheek tooth crown height. Its cheek tooth morphology differs from Hystrix depereti, and it possesses distinctive U‐shaped choanae unlike Hystrix primigenia. The Çorakyerler locality may predate sites with H. aryanensis and H. primigenia but aligns temporally with Hystrix parvae localities. This study enhances our understanding of Late Miocene porcupine diversity in Anatolia, emphasizing the importance of Çorakyerler in unraveling the evolutionary history of these fascinating mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes fossil remains of Promephitis lartetii (Mephitidae) from the Upper Miocene (MN 12–13) of Tuva, the Taralyk-Cher locality, which are represented by two nearly complete deformed skulls, mandibular rami, and maxilla, mandible fragments, and isolated teeth. The variability of taxonomically significant characters in the morphology of P4–M1 and the skull of P. lartetii has been studied. The stability of the taxonomic characters of the genus Promephitis has been analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Upper Miocene lacustrine sandstones of the North Croatian Basin, located in the southwestern Pannonian Basin System, represent significant reservoirs for hydrocarbon exploration, yet their diagenetic evolution remains poorly understood. This study offers a comprehensive investigation into the diagenesis of these sandstones, analyzing samples from 14 exploration wells in the Sava and Drava depressions. Using petrographic analyses, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and petrophysical measurements, we aimed to explain the diagenetic processes affecting reservoir quality and hydrocarbon productivity. Our results reveal a consistent grain size distribution, modal composition, and diagenetic alterations across both depressions. Compaction, evidenced by evolving grain contacts and pressure dissolution, leads to a depth-dependent reduction in porosity. Carbonate cements, notably calcite and Fe-dolomite/ankerite, are primary contributors to reduction of primary intergranular porosity, alongside clay minerals, quartz, feldspar, etc. Secondary porosity resulting from dissolution and redistribution processes also significantly influences overall porosity evolution. Clay minerals, detrital and authigenic, exhibit a complex interplay with other diagenetic processes, further reducing porosity and permeability. Authigenic clay minerals, including illite, chlorite, and kaolinite, act as pore-filling cement or coatings, hindering fluid flow. Paragenetic processes delineate the intricate relationship between mineralogical transformations and petrophysical properties, defining reservoir quality. Understanding diagenetic dynamics is essential for predicting reservoir quality, fluid migration pathways, and hydrocarbon productivity. This study fills a crucial knowledge gap regarding the diagenesis of the Upper Miocene lacustrine sandstones in the southwestern part of the Pannonian Basin System, providing insights vital for the energy sector and supporting sustainable resource development in the region.

Abstract On the Island of Samos (East Aegean region, Greece), two sedimentary basins are filled by thick continental series dated to the Late Miocene to Early Pliocene. A multidisciplinary study has been performed including (1) the definition of 21 sedimentary facies, (2) a review of the biological components and (3) carbon, oxygen and strontium stable isotope analyses. The succession is characterised by various depositional settings and hydrochemical compositions. Five main stages of basin evolution have been identified: (1) The Late Serravallian is marked by the development of alluvial fans and fan delta; (2) during the Lower Tortonian, isolated shallow lakes with variable salinity, from fresh to brackish, developed under warm and relatively humid conditions; (3) the Middle to Upper Tortonian is marked by the development of a large and deep lake with saline and alkaline waters, under colder and drier conditions; (4) the Latest Tortonian to Messinian period is represented by an ephemeral alluvial system, developed under a dry climate; (5) during the Zanclean, a palustrine and paludal wetland system, dominated by tufa carbonates, developed under moderately humid conditions. This succession is of particular interest for the reconstruction of the palaeoenvironmental evolution of the transition zone between the Mediterranean domain, and the Paratethys and circum‐Paratethys areas. The geochemical data and the presence of flora (diatoms) and fauna (gastropods) of marine affinity suggest transient ingressions of marine‐related water or groundwater inflows as early as the Lower Tortonian. The Samos succession records the complex interaction between the regional geodynamics and climate. The extensional regime of the Eastern Aegean zone generates subsidence, interrupted in the mid‐Tortonian (9 Ma) by a brief compressive event and a major exposure of the basins. Furthermore, the Late Miocene progressive aridification, followed by a change to a more humid climate (Pliocene) is also a major driver of the sedimentation.

The earliest Vallesian (~11.2 Ma) site of Castell de Barberà (CB) figures prominently in the paleoanthropological literature because of the co-occurrence of pliopithecoid and hominoid primates. However, the rest of the fauna remains understudied. In the case of suids, fossils of Albanohyus castellensis and Listriodon splendens have been described in detail, but those of suines and tetraconodontines need revision. Here, we describe more than 200 remains (both published and unpublished) of these suid subfamilies from CB, including mostly isolated teeth and some dentognathic fragments, to justify their taxonomic attribution. We conclude that CB records the suine Propotamochoerus palaeochoerus and the tetraconodontines Parachleuastochoerus valentini and Versoporcus steinheimensis—contrasting with previous reports that the latter was the only large tetraconodontine present there. The remains of Pa. valentini confirm the distinctiveness of this species and reinforce the contention that it is not a junior synonym of Conohyus simorrensis, while those of Versoporcus lead us to conclude that Versoporcus grivensis is a junior subjective synonym of V. steinheimensis. We further conclude that many remains previously included in Conohyus doati belong instead to Pa. valentini, although the species is considered a nomen dubium because its lectotype might belong to either Conohyus or Versoporcus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large collection of dicerorhine rhinoceros remains, here identified as Pliorhinus ringstroemi, were studied from the Late Miocene deposits of the Linxia Basin, eastern Asia. The new specimens include several complete skulls with for the first-time preserved premaxillae, providing new knowledge on the morphology and allowing a preliminary investigation of the intraspecific variation of the species. The morphological study supports Pliorhinus ringstroemi as a valid species and phylogenetic analyses place it as the sister group of P. megarhinus and P. miguelcrusafonti. Compared with P. megarhinus, the unique characters of P. ringstroemi include the better developed and oval I1, tusk-like i2, complex secondary folds on upper cheek teeth, convex base of the mandibular corpus, and slightly different skull shape as supported by the geometric morphometric study. Our findings confirm the gradual reduction of incisors, elongated nasal, retracted nasal notch, and, finally, a developed bony nasal septum previously reported for Dicerorhina. The early age and primitive traits suggest that Pliorhinus could have originated in Asia and migrated to Europe at the latest Miocene, taking the niche of closely related species Dihoplus pikermiensis in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Catalan locality of Can Llobateres 1 (early Vallesian, MN9) shows a remarkably rich diversity just prior to the mid-Vallesian crisis, including 23 species of Carnivora. Similarity maps using the Raup-Crick index and covering the Middle to Late Miocene (16–5.3 Ma) show that the origin of this carnivoran chronofauna lies to the north of the Iberian Peninsula, gradually making its way south. The chronofauna built up through migrations during the Aragonian, but shows a major influx during the early Vallesian, leading to a biodiversity hotspot. At the end of MN9, the mid-Vallesian turnover, the chronofauna collapses. This is mainly because of the extinction of parts of the fauna, and the retraction of some species to the north, disappearing from Spain. Thus, the rich fauna is an amalgamation of persisting older elements, northern elements having a brief temporary presence and new elements coming in. All these were supported by the unique rich ecosystem of the Vallès-Penedès Basin during the early Vallesian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have recovered disease-symptomatic monocot leaves from the middle Siwalik (late Miocene; 12–8 Ma) sedimentary strata of Himachal Pradesh, western Himalaya, India. Information about disease symptoms linked to fossil monocot leaves, however, is lacking. The present study therefore aims to elucidate their identity through the analysis of morphological characteristics of the plant pathogenic fungi (causal agent) associated with these disease symptoms. Black mildew disease caused by foliicolous fungal fossil-genus Meliolinites Selkirk ex Janson. and Hills (fossil Meliolaceae) is detected on infected host Siwalik monocot leaves. In the study presented here, we provide formal descriptions and illustrations for the fossil-genus. The pathogen Meliolinites is recognized by the presence of appressoria, phialides, mycelial seta, black non-ostiolate ascomata, and four-septate, five-celled ascospores. This is the first report of melioloid fungus causing black mildew disease on fossil monocot leaves. Here, we also reconstruct a possible disease cycle of black mildew pathogen on Siwalik monocot leaves. The in-situ evidence of Meliolinites on the monocot leaf cuticles indicates the possible existence of a biotrophic relationship in Himachal sub-Himalaya's ancient warm and humid tropical forest during the time of deposition. • Evidence of disease-symptomatic monocot leaves recovered from Himachal Siwalik. • First evidence of melioloid fungus causing black mildew disease on fossil monocot leaves. • Reconstruct a possible disease cycle of Meliolinites on host monocot. • Existence of a biotrophic relationship between monocot and Meliolinites since Miocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Caucasus is one of the most important areas for the study of Paratethyan Neogene phocids, with a number of 'paleorookery' sites that are still poorly studied. In this study, the remains of a fossil phocine from the Late Miocene locality of Eldari I (late Vallesian/late Sarmatian s.l.) in the Southern Caucasus are described and compared with other Paratethyan phocines. The new materials obtained from the site consists of the right complete forelimb bones along with the carpal and metacarpal bones in natural anatomical articulation and a right innominate bone fragment. Additionally, published remains of 'Phoca' procaspica from Eldari I are analysed. Based on morphological and morphometric studies, the Eldari I phocine is assigned to the genus Praepusa. The skeletal material demonstrates a distinct combination of diagnostic traits that can be attributed to the smallest representative of the subfamily, Praepusa procaspica. During the early Late Miocene (10 Ma.), major palaeoecological and palaeogeographic changes took place in the Eastern Paratethyan basin, which significantly decreased the diversity of phocids and had a negative impact on the remnant taxa; this was expressed in the Eldari I and Küçükçekmece seals by the decrease in body size and a change in the feeding apparatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restudy of the fossil eggshells originally identified as Struthio karingarabensis indicates that they are more likely to belong to the extinct oogenus Diamantornis than to Struthio. Remeasurement of the entire sample of eggshell fragments from the type locality reveals that the range of variation in thickness is slightly different from previously published estimates. In particular the holotype is thinner than originally reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equisetum (Equisetaceae) has long been a focus of attention for botanists and palaeontologists because, given its extensive and well-documented fossil record, it is considered the oldest extant vascular plant and a key element in understanding vascular plant evolution. However, to date, no authentic fossil evidence of Equisetum has been found from the Indian Cenozoic. Here, we describe a new fossil species, namely, E. siwalikum sp. nov., recovered from the middle Siwalik (Late Miocene) sediments of Himachal Pradesh, western Himalaya. We identified fossil specimens based on morphological and epidermal characters. In addition, X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to determine the mineral composition of compressed stems of Equisetum. The close affinity of our recovered Siwalik fossils to Equisetum is supported by the presence of both macromorphological and epidermal characters. Because Equisetum generally grows in wet conditions around water reservoirs, our findings indicate that the fossil locality was humid and surrounded by swamp and lowland regions during deposition. Ample fossil evidence indicates that this sphenopsid once existed in the western Himalaya during the Siwalik period. However, at present Equisetum is confined to a particular area of our fossil locality, probably a consequence of severe environmental changes coupled with competition from opportunistic angiosperms. Our discovery of Equisetum fossils in appreciable numbers from the Siwalik sediments of the Himachal Himalayas is unique and constitutes the first reliable recognition of Equisetum from the Indian Cenozoic.

The aim of constructing 3D computer models of outcrops of the Mount Messenger Formation using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) drone technology was to enable better visualization and potential for analysis of deep-water sedimentary systems in Taranaki Basin, New Zealand. The Late Miocene-aged strata crop out along the north Taranaki coast of western North Island, New Zealand. The Mount Messenger Formation sandstone and siltstone beds are outstanding examples of deep-water sedimentary strata. These strata can be observed in outcrop sections, as well as in offshore drillholes (wireline logs) and in seismic reflection data acquired immediately offshore of the north Taranaki coastal section. In previous research undertaken on the Mount Messenger Formation in North Taranaki Basin, geologists used photographs and coupled these with observations and descriptions of strata in the field. Modern UAV drone technology now enables 3D perspectives to be obtained of outcrop sections, which greatly improves geometrical analysis of the rocks. This type of analysis, coupled with mapping of seismic reflection data in the immediate offshore area has enabled us to better understand the nature of Mount Messenger Formation deep-water sedimentary strata and to interpret the associated paleogeography with implications for energy resource exploration and evaluation.Using UAV drone photogrammetry, we acquired ∼3000 images of the Mount Messenger Formation outcrop at four locations along the north Taranaki coast. Drone surveys were conducted using a real-time kinetic (RTK) global positioning system (GPS) for accurate geolocation. The surveys were conducted on a DJI Phantom 4 drone, with a focal length of 24 mm with a 20-megapixel resolution. Survey images overlapped by 80–90%. The drone work adhered to the rules and regulations of the Aviation Security Service and the University of Waikato, New Zealand. Images were captured using programmed flight paths where the drone faced the outcrops at distances ranging from ∼3–7 m.3D computer models were constructed using Pix4Dmapper version 4.4.12 to generate dense 3D point clouds, digital surface models (DSMs), triangle meshes, and orthomosaic images of the outcrops (i.e., 3D models). Once the 3D computer models of the outcrops were constructed, they were exported out of Pix4Dmapper as ArcGIS Scene Layer Package format (.slpk) and loaded into ArcGIS Pro version 3.0.3 for further analysis.The 3D computer models comprise a rich and valuable scientific dataset that can enhance geological analysis of sedimentary strata beyond the capabilities of photographs and manual fieldwork. These models allow desktop analysis of the geology and “virtual fieldwork” by imaging areas that are commonly inaccessible on foot due to their high elevation above ground level, location in rugged and steep terrane, as well as periodic intertidal flooding. This electronic geological dataset is stored in commonly used spatial format and plain-text ASCII files, allowing the preservation of geological data in digital records, especially when the outcrops are prone to erosion and cover by vegetation. The drone model dataset can be reused by the scientific community for virtual geological fieldwork, as petroleum and water reservoir analogues, as well as for research on coastal, environmental and geotechnical topics.

Here we report a well-preserved isolated physeteroid tooth of Late Miocene age from Liessel, the Netherlands. The presence of several morphological features allows attribution to the macroraptorial physeteroids. Size and morphology are to some extent comparable to Zygophyseter and almost identical to the primarily tooth-based Tortonian taxon Scaldicetus caretti. However, the genus Scaldicetus was declared unutilizable, which is supported here with an overview of modern classifications of Scaldicetus species and specimens. Despite the restrictions, the type species S. caretti is still valid, although the name is to be restricted to the type material. Based on its morphological resemblance, the tooth is identified as Physeteroidea indet. cf. Scaldicetus caretti.

The paper provides an overview of the Chilotherium Ringström, 1924 fossils from Romania, which are recorded so far in three different Upper Miocene localities of the Eastern Carpathians Foreland: mammal localities of Reghiu, Bacău and Pogana. The fossils include a partial skull, several maxillary and mandible fragments and isolated teeth. They have been partially illustrated, but never described excepting the isolated teeth of Pogana. The previous assignments were confusing, ranging from Chilotherium schlosseri (Weber, 1905) and C. cf. sarmaticum for Reghiu specimens to an indeterminate species close to C. sarmaticum Korotkevich, 1958, C. kiliasi (Geraads & Koufos, 1990), and C. kowalevskii (Pavlow, 1913) for Pogana teeth. Based on descriptions and comparisons with other Chilotherium remains, all specimens from Romania can be referred to C. schlosseri. Chilotherium schlosseri is the most widespread species of the genus, ranging from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. The presence of this genus in Romania, and more globally in Eastern Europe, attests to a transition area between the more closed and wooded environments of Western Europe (where Chilotherium is absent) to the more open ones in Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trapa L. (Lythraceae J. ST.-HIL) is a genus of annual free-floating plant, widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. The Qaidam Basin is regarded as an ideal region to understand the Cenozoic palaeoclimatic and palaeobiological evolution of the northern Tibetan Plateau. A few records of Trapa have been previously mentioned from the Cenozoic deposits of the Qaidam Basin, northern Tibetan Plateau. Here, we describe some fossil fruits of Trapa from the late Miocene Shangyoushashan Formation of southeastern Qaidam Basin (Tuosu Lake area), which were identified as Trapa qaidamensis sp. nov. based on their morphology. Extant species of Trapa usually live in the environments with mean temperature of warmest quarter (MTWQ) ranging from 14.9°C to 30.9°C, as well as mean temperature of warmest month (MTWM) ranging from 19.6°C to 37.3°C in the living areas of Trapa. Compared with MTWQ 16.5°C and MTWM 17.5°C in current fossil locality, the present fossil site was warmer during the Miocene than in the present day [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successions deposited under rifting and post-rift settings of an isolated epicontinental basin often exhibit contrasting characteristics. Facies linked to transgression during basin rifting are typically locally sourced fan deltas transporting coarse-grained sediment, whereas the post-rift setup generally involves a normal regression marked by more extensive catchments, sediment sourced from greater distances, and an overall decrease in average grain size compared to the transgressive facies. In this study, we present a specific scenario based on a sedimentological, stratigraphic, and authigenic 10Be/9Be analysis of the Nemčiňany Formation, an Upper Miocene fan deltaic succession in the eastern Danube Basin, Slovakia. Deposition of the Nemčiňany Fm. was initiated shortly after ~11.6 Ma by the fourth rifting phase of the Pannonian Basin System, triggering the transgression of Lake Pannon. The depositional system persisted until ~9.6 Ma, likely balancing the increased accommodation rate with sediment supply in the shallow lake area situated on a basement high. Subsequently, a relative decrease in the accommodation rate prompted the progradation of shelf-slope scale clinoforms, originating from the Nemčiňany depositional system, toward the center of the Komjatice depression at ~9.4 Ma, resulting in a normal regression of Lake Pannon. The persistence of the Nemčiňany fan delta system, unlike common stratigraphic patterns, was associated to the high sediment supply yielded by the paleo-Hron river, which entered the basin in the study area. These observations underscore the need for caution in predicting provenance shifts during changes in geodynamic stages of a basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On the Island of Samos (East Aegean region, Greece), two sedimentary basins are filled by thick continental series dated to the Late Miocene to Early Pliocene. A multidisciplinary study has been performed including (1) the definition of 21 sedimentary facies, (2) a review of the biological components and (3) carbon, oxygen and strontium stable isotope analyses. The succession is characterised by various depositional settings and hydrochemical compositions. Five main stages of basin evolution have been identified: (1) The Late Serravallian is marked by the development of alluvial fans and fan delta; (2) during the Lower Tortonian, isolated shallow lakes with variable salinity, from fresh to brackish, developed under warm and relatively humid conditions; (3) the Middle to Upper Tortonian is marked by the development of a large and deep lake with saline and alkaline waters, under colder and drier conditions; (4) the Latest Tortonian to Messinian period is represented by an ephemeral alluvial system, developed under a dry climate; (5) during the Zanclean, a palustrine and paludal wetland system, dominated by tufa carbonates, developed under moderately humid conditions. This succession is of particular interest for the reconstruction of the palaeoenvironmental evolution of the transition zone between the Mediterranean domain, and the Paratethys and circum‐Paratethys areas. The geochemical data and the presence of flora (diatoms) and fauna (gastropods) of marine affinity suggest transient ingressions of marine‐related water or groundwater inflows as early as the Lower Tortonian. The Samos succession records the complex interaction between the regional geodynamics and climate. The extensional regime of the Eastern Aegean zone generates subsidence, interrupted in the mid‐Tortonian (9 Ma) by a brief compressive event and a major exposure of the basins. Furthermore, the Late Miocene progressive aridification, followed by a change to a more humid climate (Pliocene) is also a major driver of the sedimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Weihe Basin, situated in the central part of Shaanxi Province between the Qinling and Weibei Mountains, falls under the influence of the Asian monsoon system. The basin's thick and continuous Cenozoic sedimentary layers offer a valuable repository for investigating environmental changes within a typical monsoon climate. Based on previous chronological research, our study delved into the microcharcoal concentration (MCC) of the samples extracted from Bahe Formation. This analysis aimed to reconstruct the paleo-fire and drought history during the late Miocene, shedding light on the region's evolutionary trajectory. Our findings unveil five distinct peaks in the microcharcoal record, occurring at approximately 9.9–9.7 million years ago (Ma), ∼9.5 Ma, ∼8.1 Ma, ∼7.6 Ma, and 7.4–7.2 Ma. These peaks signify high-frequency fire events, primarily taking place during periods of aridity. The combustion of broadleaved and coniferous trees was the predominant source of fuel for fires during 9.9–9.7 Ma, ∼9.5 Ma and ∼8.1 Ma, with elevated temperatures acting as the principal ignition catalyst. In contrast, the subsequent two fire events (∼7.6 Ma, and 7.4–7.2 Ma) coincided with drier climatic conditions, featuring xerophytic herbs s as the primary biomass. Drought emerged as the pivotal driving force behind these fire occurrences in this phase. The microcharcoal records of the Bahe Formation reveal a noteworthy pattern: the MCC during the latter two periods surpassed that of the initial three, indicating an escalated frequency of fires during dry intervals. This trend signifies a transition towards a dry and cold climate post ∼8.0 Ma. The expansion of grasslands and the occurrence of drought events since the late Miocene (∼8.0 Ma) can be attributed to the weakening of the Asian Monsoon. In summary, our investigation of microcharcoal concentration in the Bahe Formation provides valuable insights into the late Miocene paleo-fire and drought dynamics. By deciphering the interplay between vegetation, climate, and fire occurrences, our study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the environmental evolution within the Weihe Basin under the influence of the Asian monsoon system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continental Late Miocene is relatively well represented in North Africa, but stratigraphic gaps are present in the Vallesian due to the scarcity of localities from this time. In this paper, we present the small mammal association from the section of Guefaït 1, in the Aïn Beni Mathar Basin (Jerada, eastern Morocco). This sequence contains three successive fossiliferous levels: Guefaït 1A, Guefaït 1B and Guefaït 1C. The small mammal association of the richest level, Guefaït 1A, includes insectivores (Schizogalerix sp., Lartetium cf. africanum), bats (cf. Hypsugo sp.) and rodents of the families Gerbillidae (Zramys salemi, Myocricetodon seboui, Myocricetodon aff. trerki, Myocricetodon sp.), Muridae (Progonomys cathalai), Gliridae (Microdyromys cf. chaabi) and Sciuridae (Atlantoxerus sp.). Large mammals are scarcely represented by Gazella sp. and Hipparion sp. The rodent association, characterised by the occurrence of Progonomys cathalai and Zramys salemi, indicates an early Late Miocene, latest Vallesian age for the sites of Guefaït 1. The novel small mammal combination from this site constitutes a significant finding that improves our understanding of evolution of terrestrial Late Miocene faunas from northern Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Anatolian region has an important position in terms of the richness of the Miocene Epoch fossil fauna on a global scale. During this epoch, favorable conditions allowed for faunal migrations between the continents of Africa, Europe, and Asia. Cebirli Locality is an important site in Anatolia, like other fossil sites, to observe the effects of these migrations. Cebirli Locality, which contains Late Miocene fossil fauna, is located in the Cebirli Neighborhood of Evren District, Ankara Province, right on the shore of Hirfanlı Dam Lake in the Darlık Locality and at an elevation of approx. 850m. The Cebirli Late Miocene fossil locality was discovered on the shores of Hirfanlı Dam in 2009 by Raif Şanlı and a few individuals during a boat trip. The General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration conducted an excavation in this area in the year 2009. In the examinations conducted in this area as part of the “Ankara Province and Districts Surface Research” supervised by Prof. Dr. Mehmet Sağır in 2019, it was observed that the revealed fossil remains in the area were heavily damaged. Therefore, a rescue excavation was conducted in 2020 under the supervision of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and an excavation work was carried out again in 2021, also under the supervision of the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. As of the year 2022, the Cebirli Excavation that has obtained the status of “Excavation by Presidential Decree” is continuing. As a result, 143 identifiable fossils were obtained during the excavation work conducted in three seasons from 2020 to 2022 and 154 identifiable fossils were obtained during surface cleaning work. As a result of preliminary studies, it was observed that the fauna in the locality contains multiple species including horses (Equidae), rhinoceroses (Rhinocerotidae), proboscideans (Proboscidea), giraffes (Giraffidae), pigs (Suidae), bovids (Bovidae), deer (Cervidae), and carnivores (Carnivora), and that there is an abundance of fossil remains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]