GSSP for Aalenian Stage
Definition:
The base of the Aalenian Stage is defined at the base of Bed FZ 107 in Fuentelsaz Section, Castilian Branch of the Iberian Range, Spain. The boundary coincides with the first occurrence of the ammonite assemblage characterized byLeioceras opalinum andLeioceras lineatum and corresponds with a normal polarity interval.
Location:
The GSSP of the Aalenian Stage is located at 0.5km to the North of Fuentelsaz village, NE of Guadalajara province, Central Sector of the Castilian Branch in the Iberian Range; about 170km to the ENE of Madrid and 30km to the N of Molina de Aragón. The GSSP is located at a latitude of 41°10'15"N and a longitude of 1°50'W.
Sedimentology:
The GSSP succession is composed of marls with interbedded limestones forming an irregular rhythmic alternation. Marls are dominant in the upper part of thePleydellia aalensis Subzone and in thePleydellia buckmani Subzone. Carbonates become more important near the Toarcian - Aalenian Boundary. The Toarcian - Aalenian Boundary is defined at Bed FZ 107.
Primary Markers:
Ammonites:
The boundary coincides with the first occurrence of the ammonite assemblagecharacterized byLeioceras opalinum andLeioceras lineatum.
Secondary Markers:
Nannofossils:
Hexalithus magharensis appears first in Bed FZ 107.
Correlation Events:
Ammonite FADLeioceras opalinumandLeioceras lineatum
Notes on Derivation of Age:
Duration of Aalenian-Toarcian from cycle stratigraphy