Revisiting reef models in the Oligocene of northern Italy (Venetian Southern Alps)
Bosellini FR, Vescogni A, Kießling W, Zoboli A, Di Giuseppe D, Papazzoni CA (2020)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2020
Journal
Book Volume: 59
Pages Range: 337-348
Journal Issue: 3
DOI: 10.4435/BSPI.2020.12
Abstract
The lower Oligocene coral communities and reefs exposed in the Lessini Shelf of northern Italy may record one of the oldest well-developed barrier reef/lagoon systems of the Cenozoic. However, the rimmed-shelf interpretation has been repeatedly challenged in favour of a ramp model with scattered corals. Based upon a re-analysis of selected localities in the Lessini Shelf, we here provide support for the barrier reef model based on four key observations: 1) systematic changes of coral growth-forms from branching in the proximal areas to massive at the platform margin; 2) a progressive increase of the hydrodynamic energy from the proximal belt towards the more distal environments in the Berici Hills; 3) the occurrence of shallow-water, euphotic conditions throughout the whole depositional system; and 4) the presence of restricted circulation in the proximal environments during sea-level lowstands, with lack of coral colonies. These features, together with the evidence of coral frameworks located on the southeastern edge of the Lessini Shelf, substantiate the occurrence of a reef-rimmed margin. The reefal rim acted as an efficient barrier, with the formation of a landward, wide lagoon protected from the action of waves and currents.
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APA:
Bosellini, F.R., Vescogni, A., Kießling, W., Zoboli, A., Di Giuseppe, D., & Papazzoni, C.A. (2020). Revisiting reef models in the Oligocene of northern Italy (Venetian Southern Alps). Bollettino Della Societa Paleontologica Italiana, 59(3), 337-348. https://dx.doi.org/10.4435/BSPI.2020.12
MLA:
Bosellini, Francesca R., et al. "Revisiting reef models in the Oligocene of northern Italy (Venetian Southern Alps)." Bollettino Della Societa Paleontologica Italiana 59.3 (2020): 337-348.
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