Ammonites and stratigraphy of the Achdorf Formation (Braunjura Group; Aalenian) at the Wochenberg hill near Schömberg-Schörzingen (W Swabian Alb, SW Germany)

Abstract

In sections of the Achdorf Formation at the Wochenberg hill (western Swabian Alb, SW Germany), a succession of five ammonite biohorizons is distinguished (from bottom to top): the crassicostatum and viallii biohorizons of the Lower Aalenian (Bifidatum Subzone, Opalinum Zone) and the latiumbilicus, discoidea α and discoidea β biohorizons of the Upper Aalenian (Murchisonae Subzone, Murchisonae Zone). The herein newly introduced viallii biohorizon is the youngest hitherto identified biohorizon of the Opalinum Zone (Bifidatum Subzone). A lectotype is designated for Staufenia latiumbilicus (Quenstedt, 1886), the index ammonite of the latiumbilicus biohorizon. The succession of biohorizons of the Murchisonae Subzone reflects the evolution of the graphoceratid late Aalenian ammonite genera Staufenia and Ludwigia.