Biostratigraphy of Oligocene and Lower Miocene deposits, Anneh Anticline, Folded Zagros, SW of Iran

Abstract

One stratigraphic section was selected to study the biostratigraphy of the Oligocene and Lower Miocene deposits in Folded Zagros. The sediments include Asmari Formation (345 m) and the upper parts of Pabdeh Formation (180 m). Lithostratigraphy studies show that the Pabdeh Formation is composed of marls and medium-bedded argillaceous limestone alternation. The Asmari Formation is generally composed of medium- to thick-bedded limestone. Biostratigraphy studies for Pabdeh Formation indicate the four genera and six species of planktonic foraminifers. Based on assessment of foraminifera, one assemblage zone has been proposed for the Pabdeh Formation. The Asmari Formation biostratigraphy studies led to identify 27 genera and 35 species of benthic foraminifers. Based on the distribution of foraminifera, three assemblage zones and one indeterminate zone for Asmari Formation are suggested. Micropaleontology studies are offered Early Oligocene for Upper Pabdeh Formation and Late Oligocene to Early Miocene age for Asmari Formation.