Chenini Formation, Geological formation in Tataouine Governorate, Tunisia.
The Chenini Formation is a geological unit in southern Tunisia composed of coarse sandstone and conglomerate layers. These rocks spread across multiple kilometers and display the different depositional environments of an ancient time.
This formation originates from the Early Cretaceous and documents a time when the region featured freshwater systems and marshy environments. Multiple remains of prehistoric organisms have been preserved within these layers.
The formation bears the name of a nearby traditional Berber settlement where inhabitants have developed extensive knowledge of local geological features.
Best access comes from the main road linking Tataouine with nearby archaeological sites. The paths remain open to visitors but require sturdy footwear due to the rocky terrain.
Paleontologists have uncovered skeletal remains of large carnivorous dinosaurs within these layers that are over 100 million years old. Such finds rank among the most significant predatory dinosaur discoveries from North Africa.
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