Micro-biofacies of the Maastrichtian Tarbur Formation, Neo-Tethys Zagros Basin, Iran, clue to penecontemporaneous faults and environmental hydrodynamics

Abstract

The main purpose of this research main is to study the role of local faults in the formation of rudist assemblage composition and thickness in the Maastrichtian deposits of the Tarbur Formation in the High Zagros sub-basin. Based on the taphonomic studies and micro-biofacies analysis, three micro-biofacies were identified in the study areas. These micro-biofacies were formed in the shallow marine environments in the study areas. The Tarbur Formation in the Ardal and Murak areas was deposited in a high-energy environment based on the distribution of micro-biofacies. Other areas were formed in low-energy environments. The activities of local faults were an important and effective factor in the formation of rudist association with high thickness and the distribution of hydrodynamic energy in different areas of the carbonate platforms. The thickness of these rudist colonies increased from northwest to southeast in the High Zagros zone. © 2023 Elsevier Ltd