Open AccessThe Frasnian-Famennian boundary sections at Hony and Sinsin (Ardenne, Belgium): new interpretation based on quantitative analysis of palynomorphs, sequence stratigraphy and climatic interpretation
Author(s) -
Maurice Streel,
Michel Vanguestaine,
Andrés Pardo-Trujillo,
Eric Thomalla
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
geologica belgica (printed)/geologica belgica (online)
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2034-1954
pISSN - 1374-8505
DOI - 10.20341/gb.2014.033
Subject(s) - geology , paleontology , acritarch , sequence (biology) , sequence stratigraphy , biostratigraphy , stratigraphy , sedimentary depositional environment , tectonics , structural basin , genetics , biology
In the light of recent geochemical and sedimentological investigations, the Frasnian-Famennian Boundary sections at Hony and Sinsin (eastern and central Ardenne, Belgium) are re-evaluated in terms of quantitative analysis of spiny acritarchs and miospores. It is concluded that the shaly interval separating the limestone beds dated Frasnian and Famennian by conodonts corresponds to a transgressive - regressive marine sequence. This interpretation is supported, for the Hony section, by a quantitative analysis of two spiny acritarch groups (Gorgonisphaeridium gr. and Micrhystridium gr.) based on the relationship between their abundance and the depth of the marine environment. It is also corroborated by the frequency distribution of a Prasinophyceae (Maranhites stockmansii) indicative for a maximum flooding surface. A sequence stratigraphic model and the possible causes of the bathymetric changes right at the Frasnian-Famennian Boundary are briefly discussed. It is suggested that these changes are related to a short glacial phase during a "warm mode" period.