Lithostratigraphy, depositional history and constraints on sequence stratigraphy of the Kallankurichchi Formation (Lower Maastrichtian) Ariyalur group, South India

Abstract

The Kallankurichchi Formation of Ariyalur Group. South India has rich assemblage of micro, mega and ichno fauna and limited floral remains that enabled to establish biostratigraphic units and zones. As for as the lithologic documentation is concerned, this formation lacks such lucid publications. A collective analysis of lithic characteristics, their stratigraphic relationships, field and petrographic observations, sedimentary structures and fossils have enabled recognising five major lithologic types and transitionary varieties. They are grouped into four members viz., Arenaceous Member, Inoceramus limestone Member. Fragmental shell limestone Member and Gryphean limestone Member. Following the North American Stratigraphic Code (1983) and the keys and guidelines given by Eysinga (1970), systematic stratigraphy of these members is presented. On construction of detailed stratigraphic succession and analysing it with established depositional model, sequence stratigraphical constraints have been evolved and are presented in this paper.