Quiricó Formation, Geological formation in Minas Gerais, Brazil
The Quiricó Formation is a geological deposit in Minas Gerais composed of sedimentary layers of siltstone and limestone. These strata measure between 60 and 100 meters thick within the São Francisco Basin.
The formation originated during the Lower Cretaceous period, roughly 100 million years ago, with deposits from an ancient marine basin. These sediments record conditions that existed in South American waters during that geological age.
Scientists from multiple institutions conduct research at the formation to study fossils and document the evolution of reptiles during the Cretaceous period.
Access to the site requires permits from local geological authorities and is typically limited to research teams. Prospective visitors should contact relevant institutions beforehand to understand access requirements and conditions.
The layers preserve fossils of several extinct reptile species, including the sauropod Tapuiasaurus macedoi and the theropod Spectrovenator ragei. These discoveries reveal the range of creatures that inhabited this ancient marine environment.
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