Nanxiong Formation, Geological formation in Guangdong, China
Nanxiong Formation is a layered geological deposit in Guangdong composed of red-colored rocks including sandstone, siltstone, and conglomerate materials. These layers span hundreds of meters thick and hold the preserved bones of dinosaurs and other reptiles from the Late Cretaceous period.
The formation developed around 67 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period and rests upon older granite bedrock beneath. A younger rock layer called the Shanghu Formation covers it from above, marking a significant boundary in the region's geological history.
Scientists from multiple countries conduct research at this formation to study dinosaur fossils, including numerous specimens of hadrosaurs, theropods, and sauropods.
The site offers good conditions for observing red rock layers and exploring the different materials within the deposits. Visitors should know that fossil and layer exposure varies depending on the season and weather, affecting what remains clearly visible.
The formation is particularly known for the large number of dinosaur eggs found here, especially from oviraptors. These eggs provide rare insights into how these extinct animals reproduced and cared for their offspring.
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