Integrated Approach to Paleontological and Geochemical Data of the Upper Campanian-Maastrichtian Harami Formation (Elazığ, Eastern Türkiye)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the age and depositional environment of the Harami Formation through an integrated interpretation of XRF, ICP-MS, SEM-EDS, stable isotope, and radioactive isotope analysis results and findings of larger benthic foraminifera. Findings from the authors' previous studies regarding the characteristics of larger benthic foraminifera were utilized; geochemical analysis results were obtained for the first time in this study. The mean 87Sr/86Sr values are generally consistent with the ages determined from the larger benthic foraminifera. The analysis results and Y/Ho values indicate that CaO is the dominant component, while negative Ce and positive Eu anomalies are indicative of a low-grade diagenetic effect. The absence of hydrothermal activity in the depositional environment and the proximity of the values to those of seawater are supported by the Y/Ho and Eu/Sm ratios. Similarly, to the larger benthic foraminifera content that indicates the Harami Formation was deposited in a shallow, oxic environment, the trace element ratios (V/Cr and V/V+Ni) and slightly negative Ce anomalies also support deposition in an oxic environment, while the Sr/Ba and Sr/Rb analysis results indicate a shallow marine environment. The analysis results further indicate that the depositional environment ranged from warm-temperate to arid conditions. A decrease in mean temperature is observed from the late Campanian to the early Maastrichtian, with an increase from the early Maastrichtian to the late Maastrichtian.