Paleogene calcareous nannoplankton biostratigraphy of northwestern Europe

Abstract

The classic Paleogene stages (Thanetian, Cuisian, Lutetian, Bartonian, Ludian and Stampian) defined in the epicontinental deposits of the Anglo-Paris Basin(s) are placed within a standard biostratigraphic framework based on an analysis of their calcareous nannoplankton floras. Relatively precise biostratigraphic correlations can be made with some chronostratigraphic units (e.g., Lutetian), while biostratigraphic resolution of others (e.g., Ludian) is limited. Important hiatuses are recognized between certain chronostratigraphic units. Only the base of the Lutetian (late NP14) and Bartonian (mid-NP16) stages can be precisely determined in terms of calcareous nannoplankton zones. With the recent study of the magnetic polarity history of the Paleogene of southern England and recent advances in magnetobiostratigraphic correlations in deep-sea cores, it is possible to interpret the Paleogene history of the Anglo-Paris Basin(s) in a synoptic global framework in which paleomagnetic stratigraphy provides the chronologic, and eustatic variations the graphic units of Northwestern Europe within, rather than at the boundaries of (i.e., at dynamic element. Redefinition of the boundaries of the standard Paleogene chronostratigraphic unconformities) eustatically controlled depositional cycles would result in more precise correlations in terms of standard calcareous nannoplankton biostratigraphy.