Werfen Formation

The Werfen Formation extends across eastern Sudalpine regions with thickness ranging from 150 to 600 meters of thinly stratified sedimentary rocks.

The formation marks the boundary between Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras, documenting the largest extinction event that eliminated 98 percent of Earth's species.

The rock layers contain marine fossils including mollusks, ammonites, ostracods, and brachiopods from an ancient tropical sea environment.

Scientists identify the transition between eras by locating the boundary between black limestone of Bellerophon Formation and overlying Werfen Formation layers.

The yellowish level visible in upper sections indicates a temporary transformation of the marine environment into shallow lagoons with frequent surface exposures.

GPS coordinates: 46.80000,12.10000

Latest update: March 3, 2025 02:29