Geosites of paleontological importance in the Central region of Chiapas, Mexico: a first step to geoconservation in Chiapas

Abstract

The systematic safeguarding and study of the paleontological heritage of Chiapas began in 1989, consolidating with the inauguration of the Museum of Paleontology "Eliseo Palacios Aguilera" and its Paleontological Collection in 2002. As a result of these activities, it has treasured bibliographic information, experience in cabinet and field research, among others. All these activities have led us to join national and international proposals such as being part of the Paleontological Council of the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) and the Global Indicative List of Geological Sites (GILGES, geosites and geoparks). The present work aims to point out and characterize the 13 geosites of paleontological importance located in the Central region of Chiapas, that have been investigated during the works that has been carried out by the staff of the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente e Historia Natural (SEMAHN). For each geosites is mentioned: their names, geographical location, fossils found, generated publications, chronostratigraphic position, environmental inference. Also, it is mentioned in each geosites: information that has begun to be disseminated to social sectors such as students, research professors, ejidatarios and providers of tourist services in order to raise awareness of the importance of the paleontological resource and its potential use (e.g. geotourism), activities that guide us to conservation of the environment and the resources.