Integrated stratigraphy of the Ludfordian in the Prague Synform

Abstract

The stratigraphic correlation of the Ludfordian in the Prague Synform is summarized using refined biostratigraphic data from updated conodont and graptolite faunal records. The seven graptolite and seven conodont biozones and faunal intervals are correlated. The biozonations are then integrated with the generalized eustatic and carbon isotope curves. Levels of major extinction and radiation events are plotted against an integrated and refined Ludfordian stratigraphy of the Prague Synform. The proposed correlation chart is a basis for further high-resolution correlation of that region.

Keywords::

• Late Silurian
• Ludfordian
• graptolites
• conodonts
• carbon isotopes
• extinction events

Acknowledgements

This contribution was developed with the support of the Czech Science Foundation (project No. 205/09/0703 “Late Silurian integrated stratigraphy”) and is our contribution to IGCP 591 (The Early to Middle Paleozoic Revolution). The authors thank David Loydell and Carlo Corradini for reviews that significantly improved the manuscript.