Stratigraphy of the Thanetian rotaliids limestone, northern Lorestan, Iran - Lorestan, SW Iran

Abstract

In this research, biostratigraphy of the Taleh Zang Formation, located in northern Lorestan, SW Iran, is discussed. The benthic foraminiferal contents of the upper Paleocene successions were examined in a carbonate platform setting in the context of European standard zonation (Shallow Benthic Zones). The co-occurrence of Glomalveolina levis (Hottinger) and Miscellanea miscella (d’Archiac & Haime) characterizes Zone SBZ 4, indicating a Thanetian age. Based on biofacies analysis and faunal associations, with emphasis on benthic foraminifera and coralline red algae, tidal flat and marginal marine environment exposed to salinity fluctuations (short-term salinity fluctuations or fully marine conditions), dominated by small benthic Foraminifera (Kathina) with slightly mesotrophic conditions, are determined for the deposition of the Poshte Jangal section. The highly translucent, shallowest part of the inner shelf dominated by representatives of Miscellanea and Opertorbitolites. The biotic assemblages representing warm tropical waters with oligotrophic conditions were observed in Palganeh and Pasan sections. Keywords: Taleh Zang Formation, Paleocene, Foraminifera, Biostratigraphy, Thanetian.