Stratigraphy of Mid-Upper Triassic sequences of South-Eastern Pamirs with analysis of distribution of bivalves (Halobidae), corals, ammonoids and conodonts

This international project is an interdisciplinary approach to broaden the understanding of the complex interaction between biotic and abiotic processes. The advantage of palaeobiological studies is the possibility to follow fauna successions through time and different environments. Therefore, it is intended to provide new and better insights into topical questions within palaeobiology, sedimentology, and stratigraphy.

The South-Eastern Pamirs (Gorno-Badachsan, Tajikistan) is an ideal area for the above-mentioned interdisciplinary study. The Triassic sequences (250-205 Ma.) of South-Eastern Pamirs are characterized by a heterotropic development of facies (platform - basin successions) and a rich cosmopolitan invertebrate fauna. Furthermore, the Mid-Upper Triassic sequences seem to be without gaps, thus a maximum of information is ensured.

In a first step, an exploratory field study was accomplished.
Main goals

To establish a global stratigraphic correlation for Mid-Upper Triassic sequences, based on fossils.
To understand the evolutive pathways and global spreading patterns of halobiids bivalves and corals.
To do comparative analyses and correlations of basin-reef succession (stratigraphic correlation, platform growth, sea level curves, Milankovich-cyclicity).
To apprehend the palaeoecology of so called "paper pectens" (thin shelled bivalves from black shales).