A new look at the stratigraphy, sedimentology and ammonite fauna of the Corallian Group (Oxfordian) of south Dorset

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the first systematic study of the Corallian Group of south Dorset to be made since the 1930's. The Group is divided into six formations and descriptions of each formation are presented. The members of each formation are defined, and the stratigraphic nomenclature revised. The environment of accumulation of each member is discussed in relation to Corallian sedimentation in southern England. The Middle and Upper Oxfordian ammonite faunas are those of the Sub Boreal N.W. European Province. A full description of the zonal scheme is presented here, and several Upper Oxfordian ammonites figured.