Palynostratigraphic study (dinoflagellate cysts) of the Callovian–Oxfordian in Essaouira-Agadir Basin, Morocco

A palynostratigraphic study of the Essaouira-Agadir Basin, Morocco, reveals high-resolution stratigraphic markers based on dinoflagellate cysts, enabling precise dating of the Callovian–Oxfordian stages. The research identifies distinct dinoflagellate assemblages that mark the upper Callovian and Upper Oxfordian, including key species such as Ctenidodinium ornatum, Systematophora areolata, and Endoscrinium galeritum. This study contributes to a refined stratigraphic scale for the Tethyan and Atlantic realms, bridging correlations with the NW European (subboreal) realm. The findings are based on a 75-meter-thick section from Iggi N’Tarhzout, north of Agadir, where well-preserved dinoflagellate cysts provide critical insights into the geological history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Jaydawi, S., Hssaida, T., Afenzar, A., Mhamdi, H. S., Chakir, S., Chafai, K., & Khaffou, H. (2025). Palynostratigraphic study (dinoflagellate cysts) of the Callovian–Oxfordian in Essaouira-Agadir Basin, Morocco. Swiss Journal of Palaeontology, 144(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13358-025-00361-w