Comment on “Chronostratigraphic ranges of Early–Middle Miocene larger benthic foraminifera calibrated by planktonic foraminiferal assemblages (Sierra de Marmolance, Granada, SE Spain)” by Bolivar-Feriche et al. (2025)

Abstract. Bolivar-Feriche et al. (2025) conducted an integrated biostratigraphic study of some stratigraphic sections cropping out at the Sierra de Marmolance (SE Spain), proposing a significant extension of the chronostratigraphic ranges of several well-established Paleogene larger benthic foraminifera (LBF) into the Neogene (Middle Miocene; Langhian–Serravallian). While we agree with the taxonomic attributions of the planktonic foraminifera, we just underline the fact that their sampling locations and stratimetric correlation, although crucial in the general rationale, remain rather vague. Our main concern is with regards to the interpretation of the LBF assemblages as autochthonous. We suggest the most plausible interpretation, i.e., the reworking of LBF within a prograding ramp system, thus rebutting the newly proposed biostratigraphic ranges, which are both implausible and also in conflict with well-constrained ranges calibrated in all sections measured elsewhere in the Tethyan realm and beyond.