Qiupa Formation, Geological formation in Henan, China.
The Qiupa Formation is a geological rock sequence in Henan composed of mudstone and siltstone layers. The strata display distinctive reddish-brown, thick-bedded characteristics and sit between two neighboring geological units.
The formation dates to the Maastrichtian stage of the Late Cretaceous, roughly 72 to 66 million years ago. It formed from deposits of ancient river deltas during this distant geological period.
Scientists from multiple research institutions conduct regular excavations at the formation, contributing to the understanding of Late Cretaceous paleontology.
Access is in a remote area, so proper preparation and appropriate gear are needed. Local guidance or expertise helps in locating the key rock exposures and layers to study.
The layers preserve numerous dinosaur eggs and fossil remains from meat-eating and plant-eating species of the Maastrichtian age. These discoveries make the location important for understanding these extinct animals.
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