Research Article: A candidate GSSP for the base of the Anisian from Kçira, Albania

Albertiana Research Article

Muttoni, G., Nicora, A., Balini, M., Katz, M., Schaller, M., Kent, D., Maron, M., Meço, S., Rettori, R., Doda, V., & Nazaj, S.. 2019. A candidate GSSP for the base of the Anisian from Kçira, Albania. Albertiana, vol. 45, 39–49.

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Abstract– We present a summary of previously published Olenekian–Anisian boundary magnetostratigraphic and biostratigraphic results from the Kçira area of northern Albania. We focus on the stratigraphically complete Kçira-A section that represents a potential candidate Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) for the base of the Anisian Stage of the Triassic System. The previously published conodont biostratigraphy from Kçira-A and ancillary sections located nearby has been updated using modern taxonomic criteria and correlated to the available ammonoid and benthic foraminifera biostratigraphy. Previously published magnetobiostratigraphic data reveal the occurrence at Kçira-A, and ancillary sections, of a well-defined magnetic polarity reversal pattern of primary origin that allows global correlations ensuring the exportability of biostratigraphic datums (e.g., the first occurrence of conodont Chiosella timorensis) falling close to the Kclr/Kc2n polarity transition. A suite of pilot samples has also been studied for bulk carbon and oxygen isotopes stratigraphy, yielding reasonable values that suggest good preservation of primary material. These data indicate that with additional studies, Kçira-A would represent an ideal base Anisian GSSP.