Reconstruction of tectonically disrupted carbonates through quantitative microfacies analyses: an example from the Middle Triassic of Southern Italy

Abstract The main goal of the paper is reconstruction a Middle Triassic buildup cropping out in central part Southern Apennines. reefs western Tethys realm are well known Northern and Alps. In contrast, few studies Anisian–Ladinian carbonate platforms southern Apennines available, due to diagenetic alteration tectonic disruption that hinder their paleoenvironmental stratigraphic reconstruction. an attempt fill this gap, improve knowledge on carbonates Mediterranean area, research focused “La Cerchiara” Sasso di Castalda (Basilicata, Italy). buildup, affected by intense deformation associated with development Apennine thrust fold belt, was studied using statistical evaluation quantitative microfacies data. enabled original relationships various fragments. A positive linear regression between sample positions vs percentage autochthonous indicates increase autochthons toward top succession. allochthonous fabrics (packstone/wackestone) at base section (Unit IIIa) pass gradually upward into (boundstones) facies (Units IIIb, I), consisting microbialites (clotted peloidal micrite, microbial-derived laminae, aphanitic micrite), microproblematica cyanobacterial crusts, encrusting skeletal organisms. Statistical data suggest units IIIa, I order while unit II appears have been moved dislocation from its position absence metazoan reef framework, richness micro-encrusters, micrite synsedimentary cements, mud-mound style growth for bodies during Anisian.