Abstract

CONSOLE GONELLA, Carlos A.  and  ACENOLAZA, Florencio G.. Taphofacies and ichnofacies of the Maastrichtian-Danian levels of the Yacoraite Formation, Western Cordillera of the Jujuy province, Argentina. Bol. Soc. Geol. Mex [online]. 2010, vol.62, n.2, pp.221-231. ISSN 1405-3322.

In this paper we present the taphofacies and ichnofacies characterization of the sedimentary horizons in the Yacoraite Formation (Maastrichtian-Danian) in the environs of Maimará, Tilcara district, Cordillera Oriental of Jujuy province in northwestern Argentina. With this purpose in mind, two detailed stratigraphic sections were analyzed in the study area. As a result we determined a G1 taphofacies, corresponding to a monotypic and polyspecific concentration of fragmented gastropods, indicating proximity to the coast and high-energy wave action, and a P1 taphofacies, corresponding to a monotypic and polyspecific reworked fish concentration, preserved in hummocky cross-stratification structures, indicating the action of proximal tempestites. The analysis of dominant Skolithos isp., Arenicolites isp., Diplocraterion isp. and Thalassinoides isp. ichnogenus allowed us to define the archetypal Skolithos ichnofacies, typical of high-energy environments and good availability of nutrients. Also, we emphasize the record of tridactil footprints, which are assigned to the subclass of birds Enanthiornithes. The taphofacies and ichnofacies analysis, and its correlation with the sedimentary lithofacies, allow us to define a high-energy shallow depositional environment, mixed, with good oxygenation, and nutrient availability, dominated by waves and brief episodic sedimentation as a product of storm events.

Keywords : Taphofacies; Ichnofacies; Argentina; Yacoraite Formation; Maastrichtian-Danian.

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