The age of the Dinaride Ophiolite Belt: Derived olistostrome melange at the northern slope of Moračka Kapa (Montenegro)

Abstract

This paper presents the first results of a palynological investigation of the Dinaride Ophiolite Belt - derived olistostrome melange at the northern slope of Moračka Kapa (Montenegro). The analysis of microfloral association provided a reconstruction of the Late Jurassic sedimentation conditions and depositional environment in the Morača Kapa Unit. The samples (8) collected from the different parts of ophiolite matrix yielded palynomorph assemblages (fossil spores, pollen grains and dinoflagellates) of the Upper Jurassic age. The uppermost part of the ophiolite suite on the presented palynomorphs could also indicate the lowermost Lower Cretaceous. These palynological results provide a very interesting framework of these widespread, but poorly stratigraphically understood sediments. The paleoecological results suggest humid and subtropical conditions in the hinterland.