Lithostratigraphic subdivision of the Rupelian and Chattian in the Mainz Basin, Germany

In agreement with STEININGER & PILLER (1999) and the International Stratigr aphic Guide (SALVADOR 1994) the following new lithostratigraphic divisions were introduced in the Mainz Basin: Alzey-Fm., Bodenheim-Fm. (Hochberg- and Rosenberg-Member), Stadecken-Fm. (Elsheim-Mbr.; Pfadberg-Mbr. with Albig-B ed), Sulzheim-Fm. (Schildberg-Mbr. with Kirchberg-Bed; Rossloch- and Vender s-helm-Bed) and Budenheim-Fm. after SCHAFER & KADOLSKY (1998). All units ar e combined in the Selztal-Group, which includes parts of the Rupelian and t he Chattian with a time span of 31 to about 24 million years b.p. The Rupel ian-Chattian boundary is situated within the upper parts of the Sulzheim-Fm . In this part of the Selztal-Group gaps with a duration of up to two milli on years exist. By comparing the data of the biostratigraphic correlation a nd the stratigraphic sequences in the Mainz Basin several of the eustatic c ycles of HARDENBOL et al. (1998a) can be recognized.