Early Ladinian Radiolarian Fauna from the Monte San Giorgio (Southern Alps, Switzerland): Systematics, Biostratigraphy and Paleo(Bio)Geographic Implications

A pioneering study of radiolarian fauna from the UNESCO-listed Monte San Giorgio reveals a unique early Ladinian assemblage, characterized by low diversity and restricted circulation. The research identifies 73 species, including seven new ones, and introduces four novel genera, providing critical insights into the paleo(bio)geography of the Tethys. This first-ever description of radiolarians from Monte San Giorgio supplements knowledge of the uppermost Ladinocampe multiperforata Radiolarian Zone, confirming stability in radiolarian fauna across the Anisian/Ladinian boundary. The findings suggest open-marine connections between the Monte San Giorgio basin and broader Tethyan regions during early Ladinian times.

STOCKAR, R. U. D. O. L. F., DUMITRICA, P. A. U. L. I. A. N., & O. BAUMGARTNER, P. E. T. E. R. (2012). EARLY LADINIAN RADIOLARIAN FAUNA FROM THE MONTE SAN GIORGIO (SOUTHERN ALPS, SWITZERLAND): SYSTEMATICS, BIOSTRATIGRAPHY AND PALEO(BIO)GEOGRAPHIC IMPLICATIONS. Rivista Italiana Di Paleontologia e Stratigrafia, Vol 118, No 3. https://doi.org/10.13130/2039-4942/6012