Main Events of the Geological History of Cyprus in the Late Cretaceous

Abstract

The Upper Cretaceous biostratigraphy (radiolarians and planktonic foraminifers) of Cyprus and stratigraphic position of several formations and units are detalized after long-time studies. Main geologic events are dated more precisely, main stages of Late Cretaceous geological history of Cyprus are proposed: (1) early Turonian: completing of sedimentation and formation of the Mamonia Complex; (2) middle Turonian–early Campanian: collision of Troodos and Mamonia complexes, metamorphism of Mamonia units and hydrothermal activity of Troodos Complex, after it – formation of the Mamonia Mélange and beginning of development of Mamonia nappes; (3) middle to late Campanian: formation of Kyrenian volcanic arc, deposition of pyroclastic sediments of the Kannaviou Formation, and in the end of stage – completing of Mamonia nappes and deposition of the Moni Formation (olistostrome); (4) latest Campanian–middle part of Maastrichtian: deposition of the Kathikas Formation (debris flows) during erosion of underwater relief, formed by the development of Mamonia nappe system; (5) late Maastrichtian: domination of deep-water carbonate deposition (the Lefkara Formation).