Summary of Gaillard Graben Lake History

Algal reef limestone (98% pure calcite) developed in shallow water along an uplifted ridge on the western side of the Gaillard graben. Exposures of that limestone reveal typical algal stromatolite formations, as well as layered limestone containing thin silt and sand interbeds. The coarser clastic interbeds indicate considerable wave action and winnowing, especially when pebble-sized sand grains are found imbedded in associated micritic limestone layers.

Additional Data

Selected layers showing the distribution of fishes

(T = top; M = middle; B = bottom of layer; numbers = length of specimen to nearest tenth of a centimeter).

Black ovoid symbols represent coprolites.

Copyright B. Cornet 1999