Transatlantic d13C correlation and establishment of New-World reference curves for the potential d13C definition of stage/substage boundaries in the Turonian and Coniacian (Upper Cretaceous).

• Applicant: Privatdozent Dr. Frank Wiese
• Subject Area: Palaeontology
• Term: from 2006 to 2009
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 26846977

The high-resolution correlation potential of d13C bulk-rock curves for intercontinental correlation is not yet exploited for Turonian to Coniacian (Upper Cretaceous) rocks. Although the well established d13C correlation framework of Europe exhibit curves with a vivid course with significant peaks, spikes or plateaus with an excellent value for stratigraphy, most high resolution correlations are restricted to basins within Europe in the interval considered. Therefore, this project ¿ for the first time ¿ aims at the establishment of a d13C correlation network between Brazil, Mexico and Europe. By this, biostratigraphic correlation inaccuracies caused by selective sampling, biogeography or facies dependency of index-taxa can easily be overcome, which aids calibration of any biozonations. The verification of two significant d13C marker in the Middle/Upper Turonian boundary interval and at the Turonian/Coniacian boundary is expected. This proof will justify the definition of the Middle/Upper-Turonian boundary by a wide-spread positive spike (Pewsey Event). The Lengerich section (Germany) is considered as a potential GSSP. In context with the Turonian/Coniacian boundary formalization (proposed GSSP Salzgitter-Salder, Germany), a negative peak at the boundary needs urgently to be considered as an additional/alternative chronostratigraphic boundary marker.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants