Rio Colorado Formation, Geological formation in Neuquén Province, Argentina
The Rio Colorado Formation is a geological sequence in Neuquén Province composed of mudstone and sandstone layers that spread across northern Patagonia. These rock strata display varied depositional patterns reflecting changing environmental conditions from ancient times.
This rock sequence formed during the Late Cretaceous about 85 million years ago in a period known as the Santonian through Early Campanian. The deposits record a lengthy phase of sediment buildup in an ancient South American seaway.
Scientists from multiple nations conduct research at this formation to study dinosaur fossils, including specimens of Antarctosaurus wichmannianus and Neuquenornis volans.
Access to this formation is through established routes in Neuquén Province, with research permits needed for scientific fieldwork and excavations. Visitors should know that studying the rocks and fossils requires specialized equipment and expert guidance.
The formation reaches depths of about 240 meters and contains a visible break in the rock layers indicating a major gap in Earth's history from about 79 million years ago. This marked interruption shows a moment when deposition stopped and resumed later.
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