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The Mochras core, UK, an historic reference site for the study of Early Jurassic calcareous nannofossils, has been reinvestigated here across the Hettangian to Lower Pliensbachian. Both relative and absolute abundances of 24 calcareous nannofossil species reveal patterns and occurrences that define not less than 37 defined biohorizons. However, due to the low abundance of many of those species towards the base and top of their stratigraphical range, we observe large inconsistencies in first and last occurrences of these species. Instead, we consider records of first consistent and last consistent occurrences (FCOs and LCOs), as well as base and top of acme events, as more reliable biohorizons. Accordingly, we assess the reliability of our biohorizons and show that, in addition to previously established zonal and sub-zonal biomarkers, nine non-zonal biohorizons prove to be robust. Based on that, an updated biozonations scheme with additional subzones for NJB has been proposed and tested against other localities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A peculiar record of previously undescribed and/or rarely described nannoliths from the Hettangian to lower Pliensbachian of the Llanbdr (Mochras Farm) core, Wales (UK) is documented here. Some of the observed morphotypes are assigned to didemnid ascidians, commonly observed in the upper Rhaetian, as evidence of the resilience of ascidian tunicates during the end‐Triassic mass extinction. One newly described nannolith present throughout the Hettangian and Sinemurian, Quadrifolium hesselboi, is similar to forms previously observed in the upper Rhaetian, and is therefore considered to be a new nannofossil survivor from the end‐Triassic mass extinction. High‐amplitude changes observed in the absolute and relative abundances of nannoliths, schizosphaerellids and coccoliths across the Hettangian suggest a recovery interval from the end‐Triassic crisis spanning the planorbis–liasicus ammonite zones in four distinct steps with high volatility in environmental conditions, followed by the establishment of more stable environmental conditions in the angulata ammonite zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated biostratigraphic (foraminifera, calcareous nannofossils, crinoids), chemostratigraphic (stable carbon isotopes) and magnetostratigraphic study of the Bocieniec section (southern Poland) is presented here. The section presents a continuous and lithologically monotonous sedimentary record across the Santonian–Campanian boundary transition. A large number of macrofossil, foraminiferal and calcareous nannofossil bioevents along with several well-identified carbon-isotope excursions of the upper Santonian and lowermost Campanian are documented. The base of the Campanian is well-constrained by the last occurrence (LO) of the crinoid Marsupites testudinarius , and correlates to the onset of the first δ 13 C positive peak of the Santonian–Campanian Boundary Event (SCBE peak a). A presumable primary Cretaceous paleomagnetic signal highlights the potential presence of the C34N/C33R magnetic reversal although its exact position remains uncertain between peaks a and b of the SCBE. The planktic foraminifer Dicarinella asymetrica is very rare at Bocieniec but a potential LO of this important marker may be recorded in coincidence with peak b of the SCBE. The first occurrence (FO) of calcareous nannofossil Broinsonia parca parca coincides with the lower part of chron C33R and with the early Campanian pilula zone event. A large set of additional nannofossil events and benthic foraminifer events further constrain the stratigraphy of the section and along with the carbon isotopes, allows for correlation with other important sections of the Boreal realm. Although the Bocieniec section is relatively thin and condensed (5.5 m), the successive order of events and presence of all past proposed stratigraphic criteria for the Santonian-Campanian boundary makes it the most complete reference section for this interval at the European and at the global scale. Moreover, this section allows for a precise correlation of the Tethyan and Boreal domains. The Bocieniec section fulfils the geological criteria to be a potential boundary stratotype candidate for the base of the Campanian Stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundance and size changes in the calcareous nannofossil Schizosphaerella are investigated throughout the upper Sinemurian to lowermost Toarcian of the Sancerre-Couy core (Paris Basin). Measurements from 116 samples are compared to 487 and 411 measurements of CaCO 3 content and total organic carbon (TOC) content, respectively. Our results confirm that Schizosphaerella was better adapted to proximal areas than coccoliths as expressed by the stepwise rise in abundance of Schizosphaerella , followed later on by the rise in abundance of coccoliths during the major transgression of the Sinemurian. The new results show that changes in the size of Schizosphaerella were mostly a response to Early Jurassic temperature variations (coldhouse-greenhouse changes). Large average sizes of Schizosphaerella correspond mostly to proximal, cool environmental conditions of the late Sinemurian. Medium average sizes correspond to more distal conditions and cool surface waters whereas small average sizes are associated with warm episodes. These results suggest that the size response of Schizosphaerella to the early Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event and to preceding environmental perturbations of the Early Jurassic was probably not a physiological response to lower calcification but rather represent changes in abundances of different ecophenotypes or (sub-)species related to climate change. The contribution of Schizosphaerella carbonate (CaCO 3schizo ) to the total carbonate (bulk CaCO 3 ) in the Paris Basin was minor (< 6%) and short-term fluctuations of both parameters show no correlation. However, the CaCO 3schizo and bulk CaCO 3 show similarities in their long-term trends, suggesting a possible relationship between the biotic carbonate production and the export of allochthonous carbonate to the Paris Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biostratigraphy of Sinemurian to lower Toarcian calcareous nannofossils has been investigated in the Sancerre-Couy core (Paris Basin), which contains a mixed assemblage of species with affinities to the northern and southern areas of the peri-tethyan realm, thus allowing for the use and calibration of the Mediterranean Province (Italy/S France) and NW Europe (UK) biozonation schemes. This study is based on semi-quantitative analyses of the calcareous nannofossil assemblage performed on 145 samples and the recorded bioevents are calibrated to the NW European Ammonite Zonation and to a new organic carbon isotope curve based on 385 data points. The main bioevents, i.e. the first occurrences of Parhabdolithus liasicus , Crepidolithus pliensbachensis , Crepidolithus crassus , Mitrolithus lenticularis , Similiscutum cruciulus sensu lato, Lotharingius hauffii , Crepidolithus cavus and Lotharingius sigillatus as well as the last occurrence of Parhabdolithus robustus , have been identified. However, we show that a large number of standard biostratigraphic markers show inconsistent occurrences at the base and top of their range, possibly accounting for some of the significant discrepancies observed between the different domains. In addition to the nine main bioevents used for the biozonation of the core, we document an additional 50 distinct bioevents, evaluate their reliability and discuss their potential significance by comparison to previous studies. A total of five significant negative organic carbon isotope excursions are identified and defined in the Paris Basin including the well-documented Sinemurian–Pliensbachian boundary event. One positive excursion is further defined in the Pliensbachian interval. Our calibration of high-resolution calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy to ammonite biostratigraphy and organic carbon isotopes represents a new stratigraphic reference for the Lower Jurassic series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We integrate previous Bayesian and astronomically tuned age calibrations of the calcareous nannofossils events with our large-scale correlations to discuss using the standard calcareous nannofossil zonal schemes in the SW Neo-Tethys platform during a period of significant paleoceanographic, tectonic, and paleoclimatic perturbations (middle Eocene to early Oligocene). Two marine on-land sections extend from NP15 (Nanno-Plankton zone) to lower NP23, equivalent to upper CNE9 (Calcareous Nannofossil of the Eocene) to lower CNO3 (Calcareous Nannofossil of the Oligocene), are studied. Calcareous nannofossils have been investigated at less than 96 kyr resolution between 45.55 Ma and 31.9 Ma. The Souar section covers the Top (T) of the Nannotetrina alata group zone (CNE9, Lutetian) to the Isthmolithus recurvus zone (CNE18, Priabonian) in the Pelagic facies of the Tunisian dorsal. The El Rahma section extends from the Helicosphaera compacta zone (CNE21) to the Reticulofenestra umbilicus (CNO2) zone in the Cap Bon peninsula. The distribution patterns were studied through semi-quantitative counts to test the reliability of the biohorizons used in the standard biozonations schemes (Martini, 1971; Agnini et al., 2014). We discuss 14 biohorizons that span 13.65 Myr to highlight the limitations (absence/scarcity) of the Chiasmolithus group, particularly Ch. grandis, Ch. oamaruensis , and Ch. solitus, as biohorizons in the SW Neo-Tethys. Our study shows that Sphenolithus furcatolithoides , Dictyococcites bisectus, Sphenolithus obtusus, and Reticulofenestra erbae are reliable horizons for large-scale correlations with the northern margins of the Neo-Tethys. Calcareous nannofossils from the SW Neo-Tethys margin were highly affected by the paleo-circulation changes due to the episodic restriction of the westward subtropical Eocene Neo-Tethys (STENT) current (Jovane et al., 2009), followed by the closure of the eastern Neo-Tethys. • Calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy at time resolution below 96 kyr. • Correlation of calcareous nannofossils events between the SW Neo-Tethys and Northern Neo-Tethys (Italy and Turkey). • Reliability of 14 early Paleogene biohorizons between 45.55 Ma to 31.9 Ma. • Sphenolithus furcatolithoides and Sphenolithus obtusus are reliable horizons for correlations with the northern Neo-Tethys. • C hiasmolithus grandis, Ch. oamaruensis , and Ch. solitus are diachronous and inconsistent in the SW Neo-Tethys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated study of magnetic mass susceptibility (MS), bulk stable isotopes and calcareous nannofossil paleoecological changes is undertaken on the late Maastrichtian of the Elles section, Tunisia, spanning the last ca. 1 Myr of the Cretaceous. A cyclostratigraphic analysis reveals the presence of Milankovitch frequencies and is used for proposal of two distinct orbital age models and to provide ages of important stratigraphic horizons, relative to the age of the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary (K-PgB). Principal component analysis (PCA) performed on the nannofossil assemblage reveal two main factors, PCA1, mostly representing fluctuations of D. rotatorius, P. stoveri, Lithraphidites spp., Retecapsa spp., Staurolithites spp., Micula spp., and PCA2, mostly representing fluctuations of A. regularis, C. ehrenbergii, Micula spp., Rhagodiscus spp., W. barnesiae and Zeugrhabdotus spp. Variations in PCA1 and PCA2 match changes in bulk δC and δO, respectively, and suggest changes in surface-water fertility and temperatures and associated stress. The variations in abundances of high-latitude taxa and the warm-water species Micula murus and in bulk δO delineate fast changes in sea-surface paleotemperatures. As in many other sites, an end-Maastrichtian greenhouse warming is highlighted, followed by a short cooling and an additional warm pulse in the last 30 kyr of the Maastrichtian which has rarely been documented so far. Orbital tuning of the delineated climatic events is proposed following the two different age models. Calcareous nannofossil assemblages highlight a decrease in surface-water nutriency, but their species richness remains high through the latest Maastrichtian, indicating, in Tunisia, a weak impact of Deccan volcanism on calcareous nannoplankton diversity before the mass extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New paleoecological data are presented for late Maastrichtian calcareous nannofossil assemblages of the Indian Ocean and the Boreal epicontinental Chalk Sea. These data are compiled with recent results in the tropical Atlantic, Pacific, and Tethys oceans in order to characterize environmental changes by the end of the Cretaceous era. The paleobiogeographic distribution of the warm-water species Micula murus is updated and indicates the existence of major sea-surface currents in the late Maastrichtian Atlantic Ocean similar to the present day. The end-Maastrichtian greenhouse warming is characterized at tropical and subtropical latitudes by an increase in abundance of M. murus and the temporary disappearance of the high-fertility marker Biscutum constans . In the Boreal realm, the greenhouse episode is marked by a contemporaneous acme of Watznaueria barnesiae coincident with very rare occurrences of M. murus and other tropical nannofossil species which have never been reported before at boreal latitudes. A review of cyclostratigraphic and calcareous nannofossil data in the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Tethys oceans points to the following evolution of sea-surface paleotemperatures for the last ca. 350–380 kyr of the Cretaceous: the end-Maastrichtian greenhouse warming lasted on average a little more than 200 kyr and was followed by a ca. 100–120 kyr cooling. In the Tethys, a 30–40 kyr additional pulse of warming is highlighted immediately below the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary. These findings indicate an important instability of the climate system at the end of the Maastrichtian, most likely caused by Deccan volcanism. The calcareous nannofossil species richness dropped during the end-Maastrichtian greenhouse warming, which may indicate environmental stress and/or ocean acidification. However, nannoplankton diversity returned rapidly to higher values after this climatic episode and remained high up to the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary. No significant extinction is recorded in this biotic group prior to the boundary clay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclostratigraphic analysis of the Maastrichtian limestone–marl alternations of Bidart (SW France) allows the hypothesis of orbital control on lithological cycles to be evaluated. Magnetic susceptibility (MS), oxygen and carbon isotope measurements, sampled at a high resolution, are analyzed using various cyclostratigraphic tools. A statistically significant orbital signal is detected, with a remarkable record of the precession corresponding to the limestone–marl couplets. This well expressed orbital forcing allows the building of a relative cyclostratigraphic time scale for the MS and δ13C records based on the 100kyr eccentricity cycle. The total duration of the section is estimated at 1.44±0.22Myr. Correlation based on calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy and comparison of the scaled Bidart δ13C record to the astronomically calibrated δ13C signal of ODP Hole 762C shows that the studied section extends from −71.5 to −70Ma, covering the upper part of Chron C32n.1n and 2/3 of Chron C31r. Oxygen isotope data suggest a 2°C cooling of sea-surface temperatures during the studied interval. When placed on the long-term δ18O trend of the Bidart section, this interval is here recognized as the onset of the early Maastrichtian cooling event. With its excellent record of the precessional forcing, the Bidart section, along with other sections of the Basque Country, is a useful tool for the refinement of the Maastrichtian timescale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: High-resolution carbon isotope stratigraphy of the upper Campanian–Maastrichtian is recorded in the Boreal Realm from a total of 1968 bulk chalk samples of the Stevns-1 core, eastern Denmark. Isotopic trends are calibrated by calcareous nannofossil bio-events and are correlated with a lower-resolution δ13C profile from Rørdal, northwestern Denmark. A quantitative approach is used to test the reliability of Upper Cretaceous nannofossil bio-events and provides accurate biohorizons for the correlation of δ13C profiles. The Campanian–Maastrichtian boundary (CMB) is identified through the correlation of dinoflagellate biostratigraphy and δ13C stratigraphy between Stevns-1 and the Global boundary Standard Stratotype-section and Point at Tercis les Bains (SW France), allowing the identification of new chemical and biostratigraphic markers that provide a precise placement of the stage boundary on a regional scale. The boundary interval corresponds to the third phase of a stepwise 0.8‰ negative δ13C excursion, lies in calcareous nannofossil subzone UC16dBP, and encompasses the last occurrence of nannofossil Tranolithus stemmerikii and first occurrence of nannofossil Prediscosphaera mgayae. Fifteen δ13C events are defined and correlated to sixteen reliable nannofossil biohorizons, thus providing a well-calibrated standard high-resolution δ13C curve for the Boreal Realm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The taxonomy of the calcareous nannofossil Arkhangelskiella is revised using the results of a biometric analysis performed on 599 specimens from various stratigraphic levels throughout the upper Campanian-Maastrichtian of the Stevns-1 borehole, Denmark. Combined qualitative labelling and biometric measurements suggest that this genus comprises at least three distinct morphogroups in this stratigraphic interval, with possibly one additional morphotype. The results show that the descriptions formerly used for the erection of these groups as distinct species do not fit to their observed range in the coccolith length and in the rim width, and that the central opening is an important additional parameter allowing distinction between the different morphogroups. Biometric analysis shows, however, that the morphogroups are strongly overlapping on all measured parameters. Therefore, the three distinct variants of Arkhangelskiella cymbiformis (var. NT, var. N and var. W) formerly described by Varol are reintroduced and emended rather than using distinct species. In addition, a fourth variant is described, A. cymbiformis var. SW. Using observed relationships between the parameters as well as stratigraphic ranges of these groups throughout the latest Cretaceous, evolutionary trends are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The response of calcareous nannofossils to the end-Cretaceous warming is investigated in the Tropical Pacific DSDP Site 577A (Shatsky Rise) through the record of species richness, Shannon diversity, distribution patterns and statistical treatments. This event is marked by a strong acme of the tropical species Micula murus and is accompanied by a decrease of Placozygus spiralis, the disappearance of Biscutum constans and a decrease in bulk δ 13C, indicative of a decrease in primary productivity. An increase in abundance of other Micula species at Site 577A and a drop in species richness recorded in all sites of Shatsky Rise, suggest stressed environmental conditions coincident with the end-Cretaceous warming. The acme of M. murus at Shatsky Rise and in the Atlantic Ocean is recorded within magnetochron C29r and correlates (1) with the intense warming as expressed in intermediate waters through the δ 18O of benthic foraminifera, and in surface waters through poleward migration, reduced diversity and dwarfism in planktonic foraminifer assemblages, (2) with a sharp decline in marine 187Os/188Os, chemical marker of Deccan volcanic activity, and (3) with a rise in the atmospheric pCO2 record of terrestrial plants in Texas, USA, probably triggered by Deccan volcanic degassing. However, a drop of calcareous nannofossil cool-water taxa in the Equatorial and South Atlantic, as well as a first rise in abundance of M. murus in the South Atlantic and Tropical Pacific occur in the topmost part of chron C30n, and correlates with the rise in palaeotemperature record of terrestrial plants in North Dakota, USA. This suggests that initiation of the warming in the atmosphere and surface waters may predate the striking warming of intermediate water masses by 150/200kyr. The coincidence and the links between climate change, volcanism, geochemical and biotic events at the end of the Maastrichtian thus remain to be fully elucidated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Micula murus is one of the main calcareous nannofossil biostratigrapic markers of Tethyan and Intermediate provinces in the upper Maastrichtian (uppermost Cretaceous). A review of its first occurrence at 14 deep-sea sites and sections shows that it is time transgressive from the Tropical Realm of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to the intermediate latitudes of the North Atlantic, South Atlantic, Indian Ocean, and the northern Tethys. M. murus remained confined to the Tropical Realm for ∼1.2 m.y. in the early-late Maastrichtian, thus supporting high-latitudinal thermal gradients. It subsequently spread out in the late Maastrichtian to temperate latitudes and to the Tethys in coincidence with the onset of a thermohaline circulation change ca. 67.5 Ma, suggesting a major change in surface-water circulation and interocean communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy and carbon-isotope stratigraphy on bulk organics of the middle-upper Eocene Souar Formation (Tunisia) allow for a refined stratigraphy of this interval in the southwestern Neo-Tethys margin. The Souar Formation represents the deepest sedimentary deposits of the central northern Tunisian Basin and was only dated previously by coarse data on planktonic foraminifera. Together with our new data, a correlation is proposed to previous Tunisian records of the Halk El Menzal carbonate platform to the NE and shallow-water deposits of central Tunisia to the SW, which leads us to the erection of a synthetic stratigraphic chart of the middle-upper Eocene in central and northeastern Tunisia. Our results allow for a review of the accurate position of the Lutetian / Bartonian and the Bartonian / Priabonian stage boundaries in Tunisia relative to calcareous nannofossil biohorizons. We apply Bayesian statistics to build our age-depth model which points to a hiatus in the Lutetian (CNE12 Zone) that we relate to the middle Lutetian regressive sequence leading to the Lu-4 M-cycle. Radiolarian-rich sediments and cherts of the late Lutetian and early Bartonian are interpreted as a response to an increase in productivity, tied to the seasonal upwelling of nutrient-rich waters. Correlation to other sections in Tunisia highlights the strong contrast in facies between the carbonate-rich sequences of the edges of the dorsal and the silica-rich deposition in the Souar Formation. This contrast is particularly pronounced in the interval before and across the Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO) characterized by a maximum of nummulitic carbonate production on the platform and a minimum of carbonate production in the deep basinal parts of the Tunisian dorsal, rather dominated by silica-rich sediments. • Middle-Late Eocene calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy in the SW Neo-Tethys. • The MECO corresponds to the Reneiche member in the Tunisian stratigraphic chart. • The MECO is characterized by a δ 13Corg excursion and biosiliceous productivity. • Increase in terrigenous flux to the Tunisian dorsale during the MECO. • Major sedimentation rate variations due to changes in the on-land weathering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The Early Jurassic nannofossil Schizosphaerella has displayed major changes in its mean valve size through time. These variations are investigated in detail in the Sinemurian to lowermost Toarcian of the Sancerre-Couy core (Paris Basin), based on previously published measurements of 7050 specimens. Through multivariate morphon analysis and mixture analysis, we decipher three distinct overlapping varieties of Schizosphaerella (small, medium, large) and show that mean size changes of this taxon can be mostly related to variations in the relative abundance of these three varieties. Comparison to facies changes and to newly and previously acquired geochemical data (bulk carbonate C and O isotopes and organic C isotopes, %CaCO 3 and TOC) suggest that, whilst sea-surface temperature was indeed an important driver of size changes in Schizosphaerella , it is insufficient on its own to explain the full variability of our dataset. Likewise, sea-level controlled proximal-distal variations and levels of nutrient supply were additional drivers of Schizosphaerella size changes. The small population of Schizosphaerella remains, however, a good indicator for warmer episodes. [Display omitted] • Schizosphaerella is composed of three pseudo-cryptic variants • The 3 variants strongly overlap and are only distinguishable by biometric studies • Sea-level and temperature are main drivers of Schizosphaerella size changes • Bulk δ18O matching global trends limited to late Pliensbachian [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The late Campanian – Maastrichtian (~74–66 Ma) was characterized by a long-term cooling trend that marks a transition from extreme greenhouse conditions associated with the mid-Cretaceous to cooler conditions that precede the Cenozoic climate. Sparse availability of stable isotope data and the low temporal resolution of biozonations hinder our understanding of this interval, especially for open ocean records. Provincialism of calcareous planktonic taxa also occurred during this time, making it difficult to develop a global biostratigraphic scheme. Calcareous nannofossils are sensitive indicators of surface water, making this fossil group a useful proxy for understanding Late Cretaceous climatic events and correlating these events across different ocean basins. This study expands on the work of Thibault and Gardin (2007), that explored the paleoclimatic evolution of late Maastrichtian calcareous nannofossils from Deep Sea Drilling Project (DSDP) Hole 525A in the South Atlantic. The completeness of its late Campanian – Maastrichtian record makes Hole 525A an ideal site for this study. Furthermore, high-resolution stable isotope datasets have been published, making this section useful for correlation to other ocean basins. A total of 72 smear slides from DSDP Hole 525A, spanning approximately 74–66 Ma, were analyzed. Absolute abundances were determined by counting approximately 300 specimens and two additional traverses were scanned for rare species. Given that this is a low middle latitude site, the calcareous nannofossil assemblage is predominantly comprised of cosmopolitan species, with little evidence of provincialism. This means that sea surface temperature changes are not as well expressed at this site. Despite the dominance of cosmopolitan species, abundance increases of "Cool-water indicators" (Ahmuellerella octoradiata, Kamptnerius magnificus and Nephrolithus frequens) are still observed in this section.In addition to the evidence presented for cool surface water conditions prevailing during the late Maastrichtian (Chron C30N) (Thibault and Gardin, 2007), increases in "Cool-water indicators" are also observed at the base of the early Maastrichtian (Chron C32n1r through the middle of Chron C31r) and two peaks during the late early Maastrichtian (uppermost Chron C31r). These fluxes of "Cool-water indicators" further support onset of global cooling during the late Campanian – early Maastrichtian, evidenced by a rapid, positive oxygen benthic foraminiferal isotope excursion recorded at numerous deep ocean sites. Traditionally viewed as a low-fertility indicator, the gradual decrease in abundance of Watznaueria barnesiae is observed throughout the section, seemingly following the gradual global cooling trend. Fluctuations in abundance are superimposed on this general decrease. The highest abundances precede the Campanian/Maastrichtian boundary. Increases in abundance also occur throughout the middle Maastrichtian (Chron 31n through Chron 30r), possibly coinciding with the collapse of rudist bivalve-dominated reef systems and the extinction of inoceramid bivalves during the Mid-Maastrichtian event. ReferencesThibault, N., & Gardin, S. (2007). The late Maastrichtian nannofossil record of climate change in the South Atlantic DSDP Hole 525A. Marine Micropaleontology, 65(3), 163-184. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Northern Calcareous Alps of Austria, Tethyan marls, clays and limestones of the upper Zlambach facies outcrop in excellent conditions in the Roßmoosgraben section (east of Bad Goisern, Oberösterreich). These sediments were deposited in a toe-of-slope to basinal paleoenvironment and thus constitute a rare example of Rhaetian open ocean conditions of the northern Tethys. Calcareous nannofossils are abundant in these sediments and their preservation is generally moderate, allowing for assessing potential changes in assemblages. Absolute and relative abundances of nannofossils and changes in the size of Prinsiosphaera triassica have been established for 65 samples across the V. stuerzenbaumi to C. marshi ammonite zones and compared to high-resolution bulk carbonate carbon isotopes. Two large 1.5 per mil negative excursions in carbon isotopes are recorded in the C. marshi zone and are accompanied by significantly lower total abundance in calcareous nannofossils but no significant change in the composition of the assemblage. Organic-rich black shales prevail in the uppermost 3 m of the Roßmoosgraben section and contain an unusually high abundance of the nannolith Tetralithus and significantly smaller specimens of Prinsiosphaera triassica. In addition, the total number of coccoliths, which represent the earliest representatives of coccolithophorids, is higher in this interval. These results suggest that a possible change in fertility conditions of surface waters favoured the thriving of the primitive coccolithophorids and accompanied bottom water anoxia. Our study shows that even though Rhaetian calcareous nannofossil assemblages have a low diversity, changes in their composition and in their size can be used to depict significant environmental changes. Also, the Rhaetian was characterized by unstable environmental conditions as attested by rapid shifts in the carbon cycle and episodes of ocean anoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The middle Miocene Kareem Formation is a major hydrocarbon reservoir in the Gulf of Suez rift basin. The middle Miocene Kareem Formation is a major hydrocarbon reservoir in the Gulf of Suez rift basin. The age of this formation has remained controversial due to the lack of clear marker species and the presence of barren intervals in evaporite seals or sand reservoirs. Furthermore, until now, the absolute age and duration of a well-known recognized hiatus (T40) in this formation has not been estimated. Here, we establish the precise age and extent of the Kareem Formation based on the integration of foraminifer and calcareous nannofossil biostratigraphy, with the establishment of an astronomically tuned timescale (ATS) based on gamma-ray variations of two wells, Gs197-2 in the October Basin and J58-81 in the July Basin. These two wells represent the most complete cored sequence of the Middle Miocene Kareem Formation, recording six calcareous nannofossil, four planktonic, and one benthic foraminiferal biohorizons, that enable us to define the Langhian-Serravalian boundary. According to our new biostratigraphically-supported ATS, we estimate that the Kareem Formation spans from 13.25 to 15 Ma. The T40 hiatus is identified in both wells at the boundary between the Shagar and Rahmi Members, with an estimated duration of ca. 0.26 Myr and 0.18 Myr for Gs197-2 and J58-81, respectively. A pronounced obliquity imprint is recorded in the upper Langhian to Serravalian of Gs197-2 well, right above the T40 hiatus. • Astronomical tuning combined with Miocene calcareous nannofossils and plankton foraminiferal biozones. • The Kareem Formation spans 13.25 to 15.15 Ma in the Gulf of Suez, Egypt. • A major T40 hiatus is found within the Kareem Formation at the Langhian-Serravalian boundary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Upper Cretaceous-Paleogene stratigraphy of the western Tajik Basin sequence. • Dating the western Tajik Basin using Sr-isotope and biostratigraphy. • Emplacement of the OAE2 and PETM within the western Tajik Basin sequence. • Deciphering the major and minor sea level cycles in the western Tajik Basin sequence. The Tajik-Afghan Basin is a large basin in Central Asia, whose sediments document the area's long tectonic and climatic history from the Paleozoic to the present. However, the sedimentary characteristics and stratigraphy of these successions remain poorly understood. The study of this basin is critical for understanding the depositional conditions that prevailed during the transformation of this area from a part of the Western Oceanic Tethys to a more restricted Para-Tethys. In the southwestern corner of the Tajik Depression, a well-exposed sedimentary sequence associated with a large anticlinal limb was sampled. The authors proposed a new age model based on a combination of biostratigraphic data from planktic foraminifera, calcareous nannofossils, and strontium chemostratigraphy (87Sr/86Sr). The lower part of the studied section is of the upper Cenomanian age (95.5 Ma), while the upper part is assigned to the early Oligocene age (34.05 Ma). The carbon isotope profile shows several excursions linked to major paleoenvironmental events including the Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2) and the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). The latter is revealed in the study area for the first time. New sedimentological observations and interpretations of the depositional environments and sea-level cycles are provided. The deposition in the Aktash area occurred between upper coastal lagoonal and transitional environments before fully transitioning to continental environments in the Neogene. The stratigraphic record in Aktash is divided into large-scale progradation/ retrogradation cycles that can be tentatively linked to global sea-level signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Gurpi Fm. age in SW Lurestan (Iran) is restricted to late Campanian-early Danian. • Gurpi facies variations in Lurestan were mostly controlled by tectonics. • The Lopha limestone in SW Lurestan shows the position of the forebulge. • Subaerial exposure of carbonate platforms led to persistent fine-fraction reworking. • Basin subsidence caused high sedimentation rates in late Maastrichtian- early Danian. In order to investigate the depositional history and facies architecture of the Campanian-Danian interval of the Zagros Basin, the succession of the Gurpi Formation (Fm.) was examined in the Gandab section, southwestern Lurestan Province, through an integrated study of calcareous nannofossils, planktic foraminifera, and bulk carbonate carbon isotopes. Despite the persistent occurrence of reworked fine fraction carbonates as attested by microfossils across the investigated interval, the carbon isotope stratigraphy of Lurestan shows a good correlation with those in the eastern and western Tethys from the Shahneshin section in central Zargos (Fars Province) and Gubbio of northern Apennines in Italy (Gubbio). The succession can be assigned an age range from late Campanian to early Danian based on the integrated stratigraphy. The results from the Gandab section, as well as field observations in more northeasterly areas of Lurestan, point to lateral facies variation of the Campanian–Danian interval associated with tectonic activity during the Late Cretaceous-Paleogene of the Zagros Basin. According to the known distribution of facies across the SW-NE transect of Lurestan and detailed ages delineated in the Gandab section, a schematic model of syntectonic sedimentation and facies distribution is drawn. Our model illustrates how the continental convergence and closure of Neo-Tethys resulted in uplifting/subsiding of the basin floor, shifting in depocenter, significant changes in sedimentary facies, and reworking phenomena in the Lurestan region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed study based on calcareous nannofossils was carried out in the El Rahma section covering the Eocene-Oligocene Transition (EOT) event in the southwestern margins of the Neo-Tethys ocean (northeastern Tunisia, Cap Bon peninsula). The goals of this study were to construct a detailed biostratigraphic and chronostratigraphic record to report the signature of the EOT in the study area.The EL Rahma section is continuous and consists of marls and limestones extending from the Late Eocene to the Early Oligocene (Upper NP 21 to lower NP23 calcareous nannofossil zones). Calcareous nannofossils of the studied section are characterized by well-preserved assemblages consisting largely of middle latitude species. Three calcareous nannofossil zones were recognized (Agnini et al., 2014); Upper Helicosphaera compacta Partial Range Zone (Zone CNE21), the Ericsonia formosa/Clausicoccus subdistichus concurrent range (Zone CNO1) and Reticulofenestra umbilicus top zone (CNO2). The FO of C. subdistichus coincide with the extinctions of hantkeninids and is used here to define the E/O boundary. The Early Oligocene shows two major bioevents : the extinction of Ericsonia formosa and Reticulofenestra umbilicus.The semi-quantitative analysis reveals a decrease in total abundance and species diversity close to the EOB. Near the CNE21/CNO1 boundary, a shallowing trend is testified in the assemblage by an increase in near-shore species (L. minutus, Z. bijugatus, I. recurves and B. bigelowii). Our paleoecological results based on statistical techniques (PCA and nMDS) show that the EOT interval coincides with a significant turnover from an oligotrophic/warm water assemblage during the upper Eocene to an Early Oligocene assemblage exhibiting a eutrophic preference. These lines of evidence are consistent with geochemical results suggesting an increase in terrigenous input in the Early Oligocene that enhanced nutrient availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the mid-Barremian (Early Cretaceous), the Boreal Realm experienced an episode of widespread deposition of laminated organic-rich black shales (Hauptblätterton in the Lower Saxony Basin, NW Germany and Munk Marl in the North Sea) which may correspond to a regional oceanic anoxic event (OAE). This study focuses on changes in exceptionally well-preserved calcareous nannofossil assemblages across the Munk Marl in two North Sea cores coupled with geochemical data (bulk carbonate stable isotopes and TOC). As calcareous nannofossils are highly sensitive to environmental changes in sea-surface waters, they are excellent proxies for palaeo-sea-water temperatures, for estimating proximal and distal settings as well as for characterising nutrient fluxes through fertility changes. No compelling carbon isotope excursion is associated with the Munk Marl but pronounced negative excursions are recorded across this interval in both investigated cores for oxygen isotopes with amplitudes of approximately 4 ‰ in the first core and 2.5 ‰ in the second. TOC values within the Munk Marl are generally very high, fluctuating between 1.82 WT% and 10.13 WT% with values peaking in its lower and upper thirds. The negative oxygen isotope excursions may indicate increasingly warmer water temperatures. Below the Munk Marl, the nannofossil assemblages are characterized by a relatively low abundance of oligotrophic indicators (W. barnesiae, Nannoconid spp.) and warm water indicators (C. margerelii, R. asper, W. britannica) while the fertility index taxa (B. constans, D. lehmanii, D. ignotus, Z. noeliae) and proximal indicators (Micrantholithus spp.) show high abundances. In the Munk Marl, generally, both the warm water and oligotrophic species increase in abundance while the fertility index taxa drop to very low numbers in the upper two-thirds. Moreover, we observe a three-fold subdivision of the Munk Marl in the nannofossil assemblage, which matches a similar subdivision in the TOC and carbonate content. The lower third of the Munk Marl shows higher abundances of W. barnesiae, warm water indicators and fertility index taxa, while the middle part is dominated by higher abundances of oligotrophic nannoconids and proximal indicators. The upper third is dominated by W. barnesiae and warm water indicators similar to the lower part, but with a contrasting low abundance of fertility index taxa. Above the Munk Marl, the warm water and oligotrophic indicators show relatively low abundances, while the proximal indicators increase again. The fertility index taxa also regain high abundances in one of the two investigated cores.We interpret these data as an expression of a very warm and arid climate during deposition of the Munk Marl, along with low nutrient influx and reduced terrigenous run-off. Stable warm and arid conditions favoured strongly reduced ocean mixing and enhanced stratification of the water column, which led to bottom water anoxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]