The research focuses on the sedimentological and micropaleontological analysis of the Osek Member of the Sarmatian Špilje Formation in Slovenske Gorice. In the Middle Miocene, this area was part of the Central Paratethys, an epicontinental sea formed after its separation from global oceans due to the uplift of the Dinarides. The rocks at the Osek-1 site were deposited during the Sarmatian, in the Middle Miocene. The Sarmatian is marked by regional paleogeographic changes and the development of endemic species, which is also reflected in the sedimentary processes of this area.
A detailed study was conducted on the sedimentological section, consisting of ooid and bioclastic limestones with a rich fossil and microfossil assemblage. The size distribution and orientation of fossil gastropod shells were determined, and the taxonomic analysis of foraminifera was performed. Based on these analyses, the paleoenvironments and sedimentary processes were interpreted. The results indicate a high-energy, shallow marine environment influenced by paleocurrents and wave action, reflected in the distribution and orientation of fossil remains and the presence of sedimentary structures such as cross-lamination. The micropaleontological analysis of foraminifera revealed that sedimentation initially occurred in brackish and lagoonal environments, followed by resedimentation of gastropods into a more energetic environment. The research confirms the regional continuity of sedimentary processes during the Sarmatian period, by comparison with other similar sites in the former Central Paratethys region.
|
