Review Notes on the Revision Process of the Stratigraphic Record of Iraq

The importance of reviewing and revising the status of the formal stratigraphic classification of Iraq mandates detailed and careful processes that present a better and more practical tool for the understanding of the geology of Iraq. These processes are expected to include: introducing units, subdivision of existing units, removal of some units, merging and unification of others, and so on. However, a few important considerations should be taken into account to reach the best results out of this process. Among these: a). Unification and reduction are better than further subdivision and expansion. b). All Changes must follow the standard procedures set by the Code of Stratigraphic Nomenclatures of the International Stratigraphic Commission on Stratigraphy. c). Modification of the stratigraphic setting must consider the cyclic nature of the stratigraphic record and the eustatic effects and controls on sedimentation. d). Basin-wide facies regional relations and distribution are important in the interpretation of the stratigraphic relations and subdivision. e). In reviewing and redefining the stratigraphic situation of any unit, we must differentiate between lithostratigraphy, biofacies, and lithofacies. Formal units are defined solely by their lithostratigraphic characters. f). Formal classification of the stratigraphic units of the Zagros Suture Zone becomes increasingly necessary.