Fauna, palaeoecology and ecotypes of the Early Cretaceous sediment hosted hydrothermal vent environment of Zeng?várkony (Mecsek Mountains, Hungary)

The fossil biota of the upper Valanginian–lower Hauterivian sediment hosted vent (SHV) environment Zeng?várkony comprises 39 species, 55 genera and higher taxa representing seven phyla. Thirteen these are reported from Zeng?rvárkony as new species or subgenera/genera, this high endemicity is linked to a unique palaeoenvironment. palaeoenvironment developed in an outer shelf epicontinental setting on elevated block slope, small sedimentary iron-ore body interbedded with pillow lavas being result ferriferous exhalations biogenic processes. Biogeographically, brachiopods indicate Sub-Tethyan domain. Serial sectioning revealed taxon-dependent rich diverse microfauna (sponges, foraminifers, gastropods) preserved inside shells. Internally reveals differentiation among preventive strategies. It implies different efficiencies alternative defence strategies brachiopod taxa. SHV attracted both nektonic benthic organisms by creating ecotopes around hydrothermally driven bottom environment. This belongs group rare, shelfal, influenced palaeoenvironments formed continental crust. Water depth was most probably between 100 150 m. Recent observations similar modern volcanic built-up, its effects marine located crust Aeolian Islands (Tyrrhenian Sea) support recognition helps understand better bathymetry, ecological conditions ore-formation.