Radiolarian biostratigraphy of the Perapedhi Formation (Cyprus): implications for the geological evolution of the Troodos Ophiolite

Abstract

AbstractThe Troodos Ophiolite Complex of Cyprus is covered in places by an in-situ sedimentary sequence, the Perapedhi Formation, which is represented by umbers and radiolarian cherts. The age of the Perapedhi Formation has primary importance for an understanding of the geological history of Cyprus, the development of ophiolite assemblages and their structure. According to data obtained on radiolarian biostratigraphy, the Perapedhi Formation has a stratigraphic range from Middle - Upper Turonian to uppermost Santonian (Upper Cretaceous). Therefore, the formation of the Troodos Ophiolite Complex in the studied area ended before Middle Turonian times.