Century of Laskarev's landmark contribution to Paratethys Science

Abstract

Laskarev's seminal contribution to the recognition and elucidation of the Paratethys Sea within geological discourse stands as one of the pivotal milestones in our understanding of Neogene European paleogeography. Although the Neogene marine deposits of central and southeastern Europe were known before him, he greatly facilitated discourse and communication about them by giving them a paleogeographical name. By officially introducing the term Paratethys and meticulously delineating its geographic extent and history, Laskarev unveiled profound insights into past climates, environments, and biotic evolution across Central and Eastern Europe. His work provided a solid foundation for subsequent investigations of the Paratethys region. Moreover, beyond its scientific intrigue, the Paratethys Sea holds considerable economic importance due to its rich geological endowment. This reservoir of resources includes hydrocarbon reserves, mineral deposits, and a burgeoning potential for geotourism. While substantial strides have been made in unraveling its mysteries, the Paratethys Sea still beckons further exploration, promising untapped realms of knowledge and economic opportunity.