The Eocene carbonate platforms of the Ghomaride Domain (Internal Rif Zone, N Morocco): a segment of the westernmost Tethys

The Eocene platform deposits in the Moroccan Ghomarides have been studied. These marine carbonate platforms were located westernmost Tethys approximately 30°N and 0°–10°W during Cuisian to Bartonian. study includes observations from fossiliferous assemblages (such as larger benthic foraminifera colonial corals), their palaeoenvironment well rock texture fabric. Eight microfacies identified that represent different ramp environments a ‘distally-steepened ramp’ type of platform. studied are organised into transgressive succession composed three sedimentary cycles: lower Cuisian, middle Lutetian In cycle, photic inner mid mesotrophic conditions prevalent. second (sea-grass) oligotrophic observed. upper which is more extensive variable, represents mesophotic aphotic slope changes gradually eutrophic conditions. During Eocene, dominant overtaking zooxanthellate corals regions. Nevertheless, our performed comparison with other Tethyan sectors revealed some areas both coexisted similar proportions. western regions close Atlantic Ocean, coinciding influenced by upwelling currents, coral build-ups replaced oyster reefs. Ghomaride Domain an intermediate case between fossil northern margin eastern sector southern Tethys, dominance but certain presence well. A good correlation exists warm intervals these domains. Contrarily, cooling ones shallowing gaps sedimentation registered. Two anomalies detected Ypresian Bartonian times indicating particular climatic or local tectonic interferences.