Atherfield Clay Formation

Atherfield Clay Formation
Stratigraphic range: Aptian
Atherfield Point
TypeGeological formation
Unit ofLower Greensand Group
Sub-unitsChale Clay Member
UnderliesFerruginous Sands, Hythe Formation
OverliesVectis Formation, Weald Clay
Thickness55–60 m (180–197 ft) on the Isle of Wight, up to 18 m (59 ft) in the Weald
Lithology
PrimaryMudstone
OtherSandstone, Ironstone
Location
RegionEurope
Country UK
ExtentSouthern England

The Atherfield Clay Formation is a geological formation in Southern England. Part of the Lower Greensand Group it dates to the Aptian age of the Early Cretaceous. The deposit is of marine origin largely consisting of massive yellowish brown to pale grey mudstones.[1] The pterosaur Vectidraco is known from the formation.[2] As is the Sandownid turtle Sandownia.

References

  1. ^ "Atherfield Clay Formation". The BGS Lexicon of Named Rock Units. British Geological Survey. Archived from the original on 5 August 2008.
  2. ^ Naish, D.; Simpson, M.; Dyke, G. (2013). Farke, Andrew A (ed.). "A New Small-Bodied Azhdarchoid Pterosaur from the Lower Cretaceous of England and Its Implications for Pterosaur Anatomy, Diversity and Phylogeny". PLOS ONE. 8 (3): e58451. Bibcode:2013PLoSO...858451N. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0058451. PMC 3601094. PMID 23526986.
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