Toarcian GSSP candidate: the Peniche section at Ponta do Trovão

Abstract

Key-words: Pliensbachian/Toarcian boundary, GSSP, chronostratigraphy, Ammonites, Foraminifera, Peniche, Portugal The Peniche section (Ponta do Trovão) in Portugal is presented as potential stratotype (GSSP) for the Pliensbachian/Toarcian boundary. The lithostratigraphic succession is described and the chronostratigraphy, based on ammonite assemblages, is presented; the change in foraminifera assemblages occurs later, only at the base of beds 16 (base of Semicelatum Subzone, Crosbeyi ? Horizon). An extensive bibliographical list of all scientific articles containing specific reference to this stratigraphic boundary, whether from the Lusitanian or Algarve basins, is also presented.