Palynology of the Permian succession from the Ajabshir area (Azerbaijan, Central Iran): a preliminary report

Abstract

Permian stratigraphic sequences are widely distributed throughout Iranian, making this one of the best locations in the world to study<br />15 this geological time interval. Nevertheless, some units lack detailed biostratigraphic characterization which is essential for<br />16 palaeogeographic reconstructions. This preliminary study comprises a palynological assessment of a Permian stratigraphic section<br />17 cropping out in the Ajabshir area (SW Azerbaijan, NW Iran). The continuous and relatively well-exposed Ajabshir section comprises<br />18 Unit 3 of the Dorud Formation and the Nesen and Ruteh formation In this area, the Dorud Formation starts with the Unit 3<br />19 unconformably overlying the Mila Formation, with its lower units missing. Unit 3 (48 m thick) is characterized by sandstones with<br />20 siltstones and shale intercalations and an upward increase of limestones. The overlying Ruteh Formation (192 m thick) consists<br />21 mainly of carbonates with scattered coarse sandstone intercalations and dolomitic limestones