GSSP for Visean Stage

Definition:

The GSSP for the base of the Visean Stage is defined on the first appearance of Eoparastaffella simplex in the lineage Eoparastaffella ovalis – Eoparastaffella simplex (foraminifers), at the Pengchong section, Guangxi, South China.

Location:

At the Pengchong section, Guangxi, South China.

The Pengchong Member is composed of dark grey limestone beds of various thicknesses (mainly in the range 20-150 cm) interbedded with subordinate thin- to medium-bedded (≤10 cm but up to 60 cm locally) dark calcareous shales that become more abundant and thicker towards the top. The member is organized in decametre-thick parasequences, either thinning and shalier or conversely thickening and more limestone-rich upwards.

Primary Markers:

Benthic Foraminifer FAD Eoparastaffella simplex.

Secondary Markers:

Radiometric Dating:

Stable Carbon Isotopes:

Correlation Events:

Benthic Foraminifer FAD Eoparastaffella simplex.

Other Locations around the World:

Notes on Derivation of Age:

References:

Devuyst, F.-X., Hance, L., Hou, H.F., Wu, X.H., Tian, S.G., Coen, M., Sevastopulo, G. 2003. A proposed Global Stratotype Section and Point for the base of the Viséan Stage (Carboniferous): the Pengchong section, Guangxi, South China. Episodes, 26(2): 105-115.