El Molino Formation, Geological formation in Cochabamba Department, Bolivia.
El Molino Formation is a geological layer in central Bolivia that contains sandstones and sandy limestones with visible stromatolites. These rocks come from ancient marine and lake environments and reveal the region's complex geological history.
This formation developed during the Maastrichtian period approximately 70 to 66 million years ago. It was part of a large sedimentary deposit that extended across much of the continent.
Scientists from multiple countries study the formation to understand the relationships between ancient environments and prehistoric life in South America.
The site is remote and requires specialized equipment as well as help from local guides to reach it safely. Researchers work there in organized expeditions that account for the difficult access and limited infrastructure.
Within this formation lies the Cal Orcko tracksite, which preserves footprints from different dinosaur species from the Cretaceous period. These fossil tracks include marks left by armored, bird-like, and long-necked varieties.
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