The evidence of an Oligocene presence in the Bugti area (Balouchistan, Pakistan)

Abstract

Several species belonging to genera which are strictly Oligocene in Europe have been noticed in the Miocene deposits of the Bugti area (Baluchistan, Pakistan). These specimens were mixed with typical Miocene mammals. During the last two years, we have established a stratigraphical section in the syncline of Dera Bugti. This section encompasses all Miocene levels directly deposited on the marine Eocene of the Kirthar. We found many fossils, but none from the Oligocene genera. The analysis, specimen by specimen of these contested species shows they were either erroneously determinated, or that they proceeded from a narrow band of sediments situated along the north edge of the Gandoï syncline. This strip was until today confused with the Miocene.