Quantitative assessment and palaeoecologic significance of Turonian c-dinocysts assemblages in a high-resolution stratigraphic basin to basin margin transect

• Applicant: Privatdozent Dr. Frank Wiese
• Subject Area: Palaeontology
• Term: from 2008 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 58938635

The potential of statistical assessment of c-dinocyst assemblages and their morphological traits have not yet been comprehensively explored for Upper Cretaceous successions. Although selective data from various sections of the European shelf sea exist, data interpretation suffers from the almost entire lack of highly precise stratigraphic frameworks, preventing a comparison and critical palaeoecologic/ palaeoceanographic assessment of true isochronous assemblages within a swell-basin transect. In this project, we aim to investigate an Upper Turonian high frequency 3rd order sequence (ca. 400 ky) within a precise integrated stratigraphic framework at the limits of stratigraphic resolution. Genetically related sediment packages – the individual systems tracts – and their building stones, Milankovitch-triggered marl/limestone alternations, will be sampled from the basin margin (Bohemia) into the fully pelagic oceanic setting (Chalk Facies), representing a transect of ca. 1000 km. After taxonomical treatment, floral assemblages and morphological traits will be analysed at the highest stratigraphic resolution in order to elaborate its spatial relations. Temporal changes will be acquired by statistic methods. In context with facies control, data will be set into relation to environmental changes. Its possible significance for palaeoenvironmental reconstructions will be discussed in the light of the intermediate disturbance hypothesis.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Helmut Keupp