New micropaleontological data from pelagic interbeds of the Kathikas Formation (southwestern Cyprus): Implications for upper Maastrichtian–Danian stratigraphy

This paper presents new integrated micropaleontological data from two outcrops (the Agia Marina section) of the Kathikas Formation in southwestern Cyprus. Microfossil assemblages from pelagic interbeds within debris flow deposits are documented, including planktic foraminifera, benthic foraminifera, calcareous nannofossils and ostracodes. The biostratigraphic framework is primarily based on planktic foraminifera and calibrated with calcareous nannofossils zonations. Outcrop 21–32 contains a late Maastrichtian assemblage characterized by planktic foraminifera of the Abathomphalus mayaroensis Zone and calcareous nannofossils of the CC25c/UC20b Zone, consistent with previous age interpretations. Outcrop 21–31 yields microfossil associations including taxa indicative of the early Danian planktic foraminifera P1a Zone and the calcareous nannofossil NP1/CP1 Zone. The documented assemblages indicate that pelagic interbeds within the Kathikas Formation span the late Maastrichtian–early Danian interval. These results highlight the need to revise and extend the stratigraphic range of the formation. The new micropaleontological data indicate that deposition of the Kathikas Formation was contemporaneous with pelagic carbonates of the lower part of Lefkara Formation. Accordingly, the final stage of development of the Mamonia – Troodos nappe system occurred immediately prior to, or during, the late Maastrichtian.