Lithostratigraphy and depositional environments in the Upper Paleocene and Eocene of Denmark

The Upper Paleocene and Eocene deposits of Denmark are described lithologically and are formally re­ferred to six formations. The Upper Paleocene includes the Holmehus (new), 01st (new) and the Fur For­mations. The Eocene comprises the R0snres Clay, Lillebrelt Clay and S0vind Marl Formations. The 01st Formation is divided into Haslund and Vrerum Members. The R0snres Clay Formation and the Lillebrelt Clay Formation are divided into twelve informal lithological units. The biostratigraphy (mainly calcareous nannoplankton and dinoflagellate zonations) of each formation is briefly outlined. Previously unknown volcanic ash layers are recognized in the Holmehus, R0snres Clay and the Lillebrelt Clay Formations, and a tephrachronology is established for the upper part of this ash sequence. The petrography and geochemistry of the formations are described and regional and vertical variations in the parameters are related to changes in terrigeneous supply and depositional environment. Variations in the thickness of the formations are related to differential subsidence. The depositional environment was marine to probably brackish and well below wave base. The sedi­ments are mainly pelagic-like clays. Five major depositional phases are recognized, each represented by a formation (01st and Fur Formations being deposited during one phase). Phases of submarine non-deposi­tion are identified at the base and top of the 01st Formation. The R0snres Clay and Lillebrelt Clay For­mations include many widely distributed and regionally uniform, almost isochronous beds, each of a dis­tinct lithology. They show that several widespread, rather sudden changes took place in a probably deep shelf environment with little regional variation. The changes are mainly ascribed to alterations in the ma­rine circulation pattern.