Stratigraphy and Paleontology of the Upper Paleozoic Sequences in the Pulur (Bayburt) Region, Eastern Pontides

Authors: Aral I. OKAY, E. Ja. LEVEN

Abstract: The Pulur Paleozoic sequence consists of two formations. At the base there is a 1100 m thick heterogeneous series of sandstone, limestone, quartzite, siltstone and shale called the Çatalcesme Formation. Foraminifera from the limestones of the Çatalçesme Formation conclusively indicates a Late Carboniferous (Late Kasimovian-Early Gzelian) age. The Çatalçesme Formation is conformably overlain by approximately 1000 m thick terrigenous reddish sandstones of latest Carboniferous and possibly earliest Permian in age. The Pulur Upper Paleozoic sequence represents a molasse-type deposition at the end of the Hercynian orogeny. Similar Upper Carboniferous and Lower Permian sequences are described from the Greater Caucasus. This and the Euramerian affinities of the plant fossils in the Çatalçesme Formation suggest that during the Late Paleozoic the Eastern Pontides were located along the southern margin of the Laurasia.

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