High-resolution geochemical and biotic records of the Tethyan 'Bonarelli Level' (OAE2, latest Cenomanian) from the Calabianca-Guidaloca composite section, northwestern Sicily, Italy

Abstract High-resolution micropalaeontological and chemostratigraphic records for the upper Cenomanian portion of the Calabianca–Guidaloca composite section (NW Sicily) provide new insight into the palaeoclimatic and palaeoceanographic evolution of the Tethys Ocean. The Bonarelli Level equivalent was identified on the basis of lithology and well constrained by calcareous plankton biostratigraphy and radiolarian assemblages, as well as by the δ 13 C curve showing a marked positive excursion (up to 4.7‰). The Bonarelli Level equivalent deposition is characterized by highly eutrophic conditions as testified by radiolarian proliferation. Black shale samples from the Calabianca–Guidaloca composi…