Taphonomy of temperate carbonate pliocene deposits of the Almayate basin (Málaga, S. Spain).

Abstract

Taphonomic analyses of Pliocene fossil assemblages of the Almayate Basin (Málaga, S Spain) have been carried out. The study was performed quantifying different taphonomic attributes. Values were used to make a Q-mode cluster analysis to infer taphofacies models. Results suggest high energy conditions, where bioclasts remain over long periods in the taphonomic active zone. In this context, background processes were mostly destructive due to: 1) physical destruction as a consequence of the high hydraulic energy, 2) biological destruction due to intense boring, and 3) chemical destruction due to early dissolution of the unstable calcium carbonate phases. These taphonomic processes are commonly affecting fossil preservation in temperate carbonate platforms. The Q-mode cluster analysis separates a group of samples characterized by high taphonomic destruction as a consequence of the aforementioned environmental processes. In addition to the background normal processes, event processes, such as storms, produced sedimentological (tempestite beds) and taphonomic signatures. Two samples, corresponding to tempestite beds, are separated in the Q-mode cluster analysis. Finally, the cluster separates a third group of samples characterized by the abundance of moulds. An early cementation played a key role in the formation of this assemblage.