GEOLOGICA CARPATHICA
, DECEMBER 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
doi: 10.1515/geoca-2017-0037
www.geologicacarpathica.com
Exotic clasts, debris flow deposits and their significance
for reconstruction of the Istebna Formation
(Late Cretaceous – Paleocene, Silesian Basin,
Outer Carpathians)
PIOTR STRZEBOŃSKI
1
, JUSTYNA KOWAL-KASPRZYK
2,3
and BARBARA OLSZEWSKA
4
1
AGH University of Science and Technology; Faculty of Geology, Geophysics and Environmental Protection; Department of General
Geology and Geotourism; Al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland; strzebo@geol.agh.edu.pl
2
Institute of Geological Sciences, Polish Academy of Sciences, Research Centre in Kraków, Senacka 1, 31-002 Kraków, Poland;
ndkowal@cyf-kr.edu.pl
3
Jagiellonian University, Institute of Geological Sciences, Gronostajowa 3a, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
4
Retired Professor, Kraków, Poland; bwolsz41@gmail.com
(Manuscript received January 23, 2017; accepted in revised form September 28, 2017)
Abstract: The different types of calcareous exotic clasts (fragments of pre-existing rocks), embedded in the Paleocene
siliciclastic deposits of the Istebna Formation from the Beskid Mały Mountains (Silesian Unit, Western Outer Carpathians),
were studied and differentiated through microfacies-biostratigraphical analysis. Calcareous exotics of the Oxfordian–
Kimmeridgian age prevail, representing a type of sedimentation comparable to that one documented for the northern
Tethyan margin. The Tithonian exotic clasts (Štramberk-type limestones), which are much less common, were formed on
a carbonate platform and related slope. The sedimentary paleotransport directions indicate the Silesian Ridge as a main
source area for all exotics, which were emplaced in the depositional setting of the flysch deposits. The exotics constitute
a relatively rare local component of some debrites. Proceedings of the sedimentological facies analysis indicate that these
mass transport deposits were accumulated en-masse by debris flows in a deep-water depositional system in the form of
a slope apron. Exotics prove that clasts of the crystalline basement and, less common, fragments of the sedimentary cover,
originated from long-lasting tectonic activity and intense uplift of the source area. Mass transport processes and mass
accumulation of significant amounts of the coarse-grained detrital material in the south facial zone of the Silesian Basin
during the Early Paleogene was due to reactivation of the Silesian Ridge and its increased denudation. Relative regression
and erosion of the emerged older flysch deposits were also forced by this uplift. These processes were connected with the
renewed diastrophic activity in the Alpine Tethys.
Key words: Flysch Carpathians, Silesian Nappe, Istebna Formation, Silesian Ridge, Silesian Basin, debris flows, apron,
limestone exotic clasts.
Introduction
The clasts of crystalline and sedimentary rocks constitute
characteristic components of some detrital Carpathian rocks
(e.g., Wieser 1948; Książkiewicz 1951). Pebbles, cobbles,
boulders and klippes of metamorphic and igneous rocks as
well as the Upper Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous limestones
are noted in the Carpathian deposits since the earliest history
of the geological study of this area. They are known as exotic
blocks (ger. „Exotische Bloecke”) (sensu Hohenegger 1861)
or just exotics (e.g., Burtanówna et al. 1937; Raymond 1984).
Exotics are remnants of the source areas (parent rocks), which
alimented the sedimentary basins (e.g., Unrug 1968), but they
also may have come from erosion and redeposition (recycling)
of the older sedimentary formations (e.g., Słomka 1986, 2001;
Matyszkiewicz & Słomka 1994). Inter- and intra-basinal
elevations identified during the early stages of the paleo-
geographic reconstructions as the so-called cordilleras
(Książkiewicz 1953), as well as the marginal continental
borders of these basins (e.g., Książkiewicz 1962, 1965; Unrug
1963, 1968; Ślączka 1986; Olszewska & Wieczorek 2001;
Poprawa et al. 2002, 2004; Golonka et al. 2008 a, b) might
have constituted such alimentary areas delivering clastic mate-
rial for the Carpathian sub-basins. The inter-basinal Silesian
Ridge situated between the Silesian Basin on the north and the
Magura Basin on the south, and the Subsilesian Ridge, intra-
basinal elevation within the proto-Silesian Basin, were such
source areas (e.g., Unrug 1968; Eliáš 1970; Golonka et al.
2008 b). Fragments of these areas served as the main source
supplying the Silesian Basin with detrital material for almost
125 million years (cf. Burtanówna et al. 1937).
Exotics represent one of the most important sources of infor-
mation about these no longer existing Carpathian alimentary
areas, indirectly indicating the type of their parent rocks as well
as the type of geological structure and its geotectonic history.
Generally exotics constitute a relatively rare component of
the siliciclastic deposits of the Silesian Series, although locally
relatively large concentrations are observed (e.g., Burtan et al.
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THE PALEOCENE SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITS OF THE ISTEBNA FORMATION
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, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
1984; Chodyń et al. 2005; Cieszkowski et al. 2016). They
occur as macroscopically distinguishable, but usually single,
dispersed in matrix detrital grains. Boulder-sized exotic clasts,
most often chaotically scattered in the clastic mass of matrix,
are sometimes also called olistoliths (sensu Abbate et al. 1970;
e.g., Szymakowska 1976). Deposits built of gravel-sized clasts
dispersed within detritic matrix (supporting phase) form
debrites.
Mass-transported and mass-sedimented debris flow depo sits
are products of slope sedimentary gravity-driven processes, also
triggered by tectonics, seismic activities, meteorological
and/or eustatic factors (Shanmugam 2000, 2006, 2015, 2016;
see also Strzeboński 2005, 2013, 2015; Festa et al. 2010, 2016;
Strzeboński et al. 2013; Szydło et al. 2014; Łapcik et al. 2016).
Such deposits containing outsized clasts in matrix are also
called olistostromes (Flores 1959; Abbate et al. 1970; Szyma-
kowska 1976; see also e.g., Jankowski 2007; Cieszkowski et
al. 2009, 2012; Festa et al. 2010; 2016; Ślączka et al. 2012).
In the broad descriptive and rather not genetic sense, the
general term “chaotic complex” (sensu Jankowski 1997, 2007)
describing matrix-supported disorganized deposits, usually
built of differentiated gravel-sized clasts scattered in matrix, is
also used for this kind of slope gravity flow debrites. Although,
this designations, preceded by “chaotic”, “chaotically” in
names, are also applied for mappable mixed masses (clast-in-
matrix types), but also with composite tectono-sedimentary
implications, or for such clastic bodies/units which have
mainly tectonic origin, namely diverse mélanges or broken
formations (cf. e.g., Starzec et al. 2015). However, some of the
widely understood mélanges (e.g., Raymond 1984) were inter-
preted as ancient submarine deposits formed by different
gravity-driven mass transport processes (cf. e.g., Festa et al.
2010, 2016), namely deep-water slides, slumps, and debris
flows (sensu Shanmugam 2006; 2016). Such deposits were
termed sedimentary mélanges to provide a distinction from
mélanges in the strict sense, meaning those of tectonic origin
(Hsü 1974), and/or olistostromes, which are known especially
from the collisional Alpine-to-Himalayan orogenic systems
(e.g., Festa et al. 2010, 2016). According to such origin,
assigned to them by Festa et al. (2010, 2016), these deposits
may consequently be interpreted as products of the above-men-
tioned critical sedimentary processes. They can be referred to
slide, slump or debrite types respectively, depending on the
visible features of internal fragmentation and disorganization
(see also Strzeboński 2015). In this case deposits forming
amalgamated lithosomes, affected by sedimentary multiple
events and multi-stage disorders, could be termed directly:
slide-, slump- and/or debrite bodies/units/series/complexes,
etc., or generally mass transport deposits/complexes (MTDs/
MTCs sensu Shanmugam 2015, 2016).
The Istebna Beds of the sedimentary Silesian Series (sensu
Burtanówna et al. 1937), also called the Istebna Formation
(sensu Menčík 1983; Wójcik et al. 1996; see also Picha et al.
2006), constitute one of the most important lithostratigraphic
divisions with exotics in the tectonic Silesian Unit of the Outer
Carpathians (Figs. 1, 2). The Istebna Formation (Istebna Fm.)
has been studied by numerous geologists starting with
Hohenegger (1861), who identified them as a separate unit and
proposed their name. Liebus & Uhlig (1902) and Burtanówna
et al. (1937) clarified the stratigraphy and division of the unit.
Other researchers developed the research methodology and
contributed further details on the deposits of the Istebna Fm.
(Książkiewicz 1951, 1962; Geroch 1960; Unrug 1963, 1968;
Eliáš 1970; Peszat 1976; Menčík 1983; Menčík & Tyráček
1985; Ślączka 1986; Picha et al. 2006; Ślączka et al. 2006,
2012; Cieszkowski et al. 2009, 2012; Uchman 2009; Rajchel
& Uchman 2012).
The previous studies of the exotics from the Istebna Fm.
were focused mostly on the crystalline rocks often constituting
nearly 100 % of the exotic population (e.g., Wieser 1948;
Książkiewicz 1951, 1953, 1962; Unrug 1963, 1968; Peszat &
Wieser 1999; Poprawa et al. 2004). Another area of research
concerned microfacies-biostratigraphic and paleoecological
analyses based on clasts of the exotic sedimentary rocks (e.g.,
Burtan et al. 1984; Tomaś et al. 2004; Chodyń et al. 2005;
Strzeboński et al. 2013).
The paper presents results of the analysis of the exotic
calcareous clasts and the exotic-bearing debrites, and their
application for the reconstruction of the sedimentation and
development of the Silesian Basin.
Database, methods, and terminology
The results of the present sedimentological analysis are
based on field investigations of the outcrops of the Istebna Fm.
in the Beskid Mały Mts. (IFmBM). Litho-sedimentological
logging was carried out on the topographic sections totalling
almost 1400 metres in a true thickness. Data were collected
from exposures in 22 riverbeds, exposures along the shoreline
of Jezioro Żywieckie dam lake, several natural rocky forms,
and two quarries.
Methods of facies analysis (see in general e.g., Ghibaudo
1992; Słomka 1995; Shanmugam 2006; Mulder 2011; Talling
et al. 2012; Strzeboński 2015; Prekopová et al. 2017) were
used for: qualitative distinction of lithotypes, sub-lithotypes
and lithotype associations (visual assessment), approximation
of lithosome shapes, as well as interpretation of depositional
lithofacies origin (transport – transformation – depositional
mecha nisms), sequences and depositional complexes, and, last
but not least, types of both depositional environment and
sub-environments, as well as kinds of depositional system.
Additionally, data such as lithofacies types were also treated
quantitatively and statistical analysis of selected parameters
was performed, including thickness share (percentage of the
thickness expressed in terms of the % by volume), frequency
share (percentage of the quantities referred as the % by
frequency), and variability range of bed thickness. In the
exotic study, in addition to the classically used frequency ana-
lysis (percentage by frequency), innovative volumetric analy-
sis (expressed as a volume per cent, volume range and average
volume) were used.
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STRZEBOŃSKI, KOWAL-KASPRZYK and OLSZEWSKA
GEOLOGICA CARPATHICA
, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
4 km
0
Międzybrodzkie
Lake
Jezioro
Żywieckie
dam
lake
Żylica
Łęka
wka
So
ła
Soła
Ska
wa
POLAND
0
400 km
CZ
SK
Beskid
Mały
Mountains
N
Istebna Formation
of the Silesian Unit
Silesian Unit of the
Outer Carpathians
Outer Carpathians
Study area
Beskid Mały Mountains
BM
Ms
Exotic section
Łękawica
Mucharz
ANDRYCHÓW
Międzybrodzie
Żywieckie
Tresna
Międzybrodzie
Bialskie
Czernichów
BIELSKO-
-BIAŁA
Czaniec
Porąbka
Kobiernice
Wilkowice
ŻYWIEC
Łodygowice
Gilowice
Oczków
Moszczanica
Rychwałd
Ślemień
Krzeszów
Tarnawa
Dolna
Jaszczurowa
Ponikiew
Rzyki
Targanica
Lachowice
Kurów
Pawelka
SUCHA
BESKIDZKA
Krakow
50°N
20°E
0
40 km
BM
W
E
S T
E R
N
O U T E
R
C A R P
A T
H
I A
N
S
1 km
0
N49°49.181´
E019°32.575´
(±5 m)
Ms
15
Skawa
Mucharz
N
Targoszów
Krzeszów
Górny
1 km
0
N49°45.280´
E019°27.613´
(±5 m)
Ts
20
N
15
Ta
rg
os
zó
ka
w
Hieroglyphic Beds
Krosno Beds
Quaternary
Upper Godula Beds
Lower Istebna Sandst.
Lower Istebna Shale
Upper Istebna Shale
Istebna Variegated Sh.
Ciężkowice Sandstone
Middle Godula Beds
Variegated Shale
Upper Istebna Sandst.
Malinowski Congl.
Location
Position of the strata
15
3
1
4
5
2
Ms
Ts
W
e s
t e r
n B
e s k i d s
MSB
SB
Krosno
Q
Ol
E
E
E
Pc
Pc
Pc
UCr/Pc
UCr
UCr
UCr
UCr
B
C
D
E
A
Fig. 1. A — Position of the Outer Carpathians and Silesian Unit relative to part of the contour map of Europe, CZ − Czech Republic,
SK − Slovakia; B — Location of the Beskid Mały Mts. (BM), the Silesian Beskid Mts. (SB) and the Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts. (MSB)
areas on the background of the Silesian Unit of the Western Outer Carpathians; C — Occurrence of the Istebna Formation in the Beskid Mały
Mts., Ms – Mucharz section, Ts – Targoszów section; D — Details of the geological map with localization of the Mucharz section; E — Details
of the geological map with localization of the Targoszów section (based on: Nowak 1964; Książkiewicz 1973; Golonka et al. 1981; Żytko et
al. 1989; Lexa et al. 2000; Cieszkowski et al. 2012; simplified and partly modified). Stratigraphy: E − Eocene, Ol − Oligocene, Pc − Paleocene
and UCr − Upper Cretaceous deposits.
565
THE PALEOCENE SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITS OF THE ISTEBNA FORMATION
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, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
Another aspect of the present research was microfacies-
biostratigraphical analysis of calcareous clasts, very rarely
occurring among exotics. Samples were taken from the best
exposed and relatively richest in calcareous exotic material
sections (Figs. 1D, E and 3), which are described in detail in
this article. A total of 20 samples of the calcareous exotic
clasts were collected in Mucharz and 18 samples in Targoszów.
Afterwards samples were cut and examined macroscopically.
A total of 24 standard thin sections were prepared of the chosen
exotics. The micropaleontological studies of thin sections
were carried out under a Nikon Eclipse LV100 POL polarizing
microscope and the microfacial studies under a Nikon
SMZ1000 stereomicroscope. Dunham’s (1962) classification
of carbonate rocks was used for limestones and Mount’s
(1985) classification for calcareous rocks with siliciclastic
admixture.
The general term calcariclastic (portmanteau of calcarious
and clastic) is used in a manner analogous to a designation
commonly accepted in sedimentology: siliciclastic (coined by
combining silicious and clastic). The name of calcariclastics
(syn. calcareclastics, in terms of the above-mentioned) is
applied to clastic carbonate sedimentary deposits containing
predominantly resedimented calcium carbonate-bearing
detritic material of diverse origin, age, and fractions (pellite -
to-psephite in size), and formed by inorganic, gravity-forced
processes. Depending on the predominance of debris flows or
turbidity currents, debritic calcariclastics (debrites rich in
limestone clasts and calcareous matrix) and turbiditic
P
ALEOGENE
Eocene
Thanetian
to
Danian
Maastrichtian
to
Late
Campanian
Paleocene
Late
CRET
ACEOUS
PERIOD
Age
Epoch
Early
Campanian
Priabonian
to
Ypresian
Ms
Ts
Hieroglyphic Beds
(Hieroglyphic Formation)
Variegated Shale
Istebna Variegated Shale
Upper Istebna Sandstone
Lower Istebna Shale
Lower Istebna Sandstone
Upper Godula Beds
(upper Godula Formation)
Upper Istebna Shale
Ciężkowice Sandstone
(Ciężkowice Formation)
conglomerate
sandstone
mudstone & sandstone
(couples)
mudstone
gravelly mudstone
sandy conglomerate
& gravelly sandstone
synsedimentary
deformation
sphaero-siderite
Ms
field profile
(approximate position)
Upper Istebna Beds
(upper Istebna Fm.)
Lower Istebna Beds
(lower Istebna Formation)
ISTEBNA
BEDS (ISTEBNA
FORMA
TION)
0
500
1000
1500
[m]
Beskid Mały
Mountains
W
E
SILESIAN SUCCESSION
(of the Silesian Unit)
Fig. 2. An integrated lithostratigraphical scheme of the Silesian Series in the Beskid Mały Mts. showing position of the studied logs
(after: Burtanówna et al. 1937; Książkiewicz 1951; Geroch 1960; Szydło et al. 2015; Strzeboński 2005; partly changed).
566
STRZEBOŃSKI, KOWAL-KASPRZYK and OLSZEWSKA
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, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
calcariclastics (calcarious-bearing turbidites) can be distin-
guished, in a similar way to the case of siliciclastics.
Geological background
Overview of stratigraphic successions with exotics
Distinct lithotype diversity and irregular distribution of exo-
tics, especially calcareous ones, is observed in the lateral and
vertical occurrence in the western part of the Silesian Series.
Calcareous resediments (i.e., calcariclastics) are generally
rare in the flysch series (sensu lato) of the Outer Carpathians
(e.g., Leszczyński & Malik 1996). However, they include
the oldest known calcariclastic deposits of the Silesian Series,
the so-called Cieszyn Beds (sensu Bieda et al. 1963; Słomka
1986): Vendryně Fm., Cieszyn Limestone Fm., and Cisownica
Shale Mb. (e.g., Waśkowska-Oliwa et al. 2008). These beds
belong to the flyschoidal (flysch-type) basinal series predomi-
nantly composed of redeposited, originally shallow-water,
calcareous clastic material. They constitute, however, a small
amount of the Silesian Series taking under consideration their
thickness (locally to ca. 15 % by volume of the Upper Jurassic–
Paleocene deposits) and stratigraphic range (ca. 17 % for the
Tithonian–Maastrichtian interval) (cf. Burtanówna et al. 1937).
Successive formations of the Silesian Series, starting from
the Hradiště Fm. (sensu Wójcik et al. 1996), are already domi-
nated by flysch series sensu stricto, meaning those composed
mainly of siliciclastics, such as siliceous turbidites and deb-
rites (e.g., Słomka 1995; Strzeboński 2015). In general, occur-
rence of these calcareous exotics is not abundant in the
Carpathian siliciclastic flysch deposits. In relation to its whole
mass it could be estimated at less than 1 %. Calcareous clasts
appear there only locally and sporadically, as in the case of
local accumulations of the Ostravice Mb. of the Godula Fm.
(Słomka 1995; Cieszkowski et al. 2016).
Exotics also occur in some debris flow deposits (exotic
debrites) of the Istebna Formation (IFm). The distribution of
calcareous exotics in the Istebna Fm. of the Beskid Mały Mts.
(IFmBM) is laterally and vertically non-homogenous. Gene-
rally in the IFmBM calcareous exotics are relatively more
common (by volume and frequency) than in the areas situated
farther west, namely in the Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts.
and Silesian Beskid Mts. areas (e.g., Książkiewicz 1951;
Strzeboński 2005), and on the other hand much less common
than in the areas situated farther east, especially in the
Lanckorona Foothills (e.g., Książkiewicz 1951; Kowal-
Kasprzyk 2016).
Geological setting of the Istebna Formation
The sedimentary succession of the Istebna Fm. belongs to
the Silesian Unit of the Western Outer Carpathians, exposed in
the Beskid Mały Mts. (Figs. 1, 2). The Istebna Fm. crops out
in the south part of this allochthonic tectonic unit, also known
as the Silesian Nappe. Outcrops of the formation extend from
the Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts. in Slovakia and the Czech
Republic in the west, through the Silesian Beskid Mts. and
Beskid Mały Mts. in Poland, altogether referred to a set of
mountain ranges called the Western Beskids (Fig. 1B, C), to
the region of Krosno city in the east (within the Polish bor-
ders), thus forming an essential part of the Silesian Unit (Żytko
et al. 1989; Lexa et al. 2000).
The Beskid Mały Mts. is one of the geographical regions of
the occurrence of exotics in deposits of the Istebna Fm.
(Fig. 1B, C). The Istebna Fm. in the Beskid Mały Mts. reaches
up to 1300 m in thickness (Fig. 2). Lithofacies development of
the IFmBM is similar to that known from the adjacent Beskids
(i.e., Moravskoslezské Beskydy Mts. and Silesian Beskid Mts.),
and differences are mostly in the thickness and frequency of
the particular lithotypes (e.g., Strzeboński 2005).
In the studied area the Istebna Fm. is underlain by the
Godula Beds (sensu Burtanówna et al. 1937; Słomka 1995)
(Fig. 1D, E), also called the Godula Fm. (Fig. 2) (Menčík 1983;
Wójcik et al. 1996; see also Picha et al. 2006), and overlain by
the Ciężkowice Fm. (cf. Wójcik et al. 1996) — the so-called
Ciężkowice Sandstone (Figs. 1D, E and 2) (see Burtanówna et
al. 1937; Leszczyński 1981) interbedded with the variegated
shales or by the Hieroglyphic Beds (see Burtanówna et al.
1937), also named the Hieroglyphic Fm. (cf. Wójcik et al.
1996), with the variegated shales intercalations (Fig. 2) (see
also Książkiewicz 1951).
The Istebna Beds (sensu Burtanówna et al. 1937) are tradi-
tionally divided into the Lower Istebna Beds and Upper Istebna
Beds (Fig. 2). The lowest subdivision is also called the Lower
Istebna Sandstone, whereas the upper part is tri partite: the
Lower Istebna Shale, the Upper Istebna Sandstone, and the
Upper Istebna Shale (Fig. 2) (see also Książkiewicz 1951).
The previously mentioned stratotype division of the Istebna
Beds, proposed for the Silesian Series in the Beskid Śląski Mts.,
cannot always be applied during field work in the Beskid Mały
Mts. Sometimes in the investigated area the Lower Istebna
Shale disappears and the Lower Istebna Sandstone directly
passes into the Upper Istebna Sandstone (Fig. 2). In some
cases the Upper Istebna Sandstone is pinched out as well and
then the Lower Istebna Sandstone is overlain by the Lower
Istebna Shale coalesced (amalgamated in a broad sense) with
the Upper Istebna Shale (Fig. 2) (see Książkiewicz 1951).
The age of the IFmBM was determined as Late Cretaceous–
Paleocene (Fig. 2) based on the micropaleontological study
(e.g., Geroch 1960; see also Szydło et al. 2015).
Depositional lithofacies
The IFmBM includes mainly siliciclastic material, origi-
nally of terrigenous provenance, which is mineralogically
mature and represented mostly by quartz, subordinately sili-
cate minerals: feldspar- and muscovite flakes, and accessory
heavy minerals (e.g., Unrug 1968; Grzebyk & Leszczyński
2006). Texturally this material is moderately mature − mode-
rately sorted and subrounded-to-rounded, with the exception
of feldspars, which may even be subangular. Carbonized plant
567
THE PALEOCENE SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITS OF THE ISTEBNA FORMATION
GEOLOGICA CARPATHICA
, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
detritus constitutes an additional component, especially of
sandy mudstone and muddy sandstone lithotypes (cf.
Strzeboński & Uchman 2015).
The IFmBM includes detrital sedimentary rocks repre-
sented by the following siliciclastic lithotypes: 1 — sandstone,
2 — gravelly sandstone, 3 — sandy conglomerate, 4 — conglo-
merate (1‒4 represent sandstone-to-conglomerate association,
with deposits sometimes containing clasts of exotic rocks),
5 — sandstone with mudstone couplet, 6 — mudstone (some-
times accompanied by sphaerosiderite concretions), 7 — gravelly
mudstone (in the broad sense than pebbly mudstone sensu
Crowell 1957, i.e. granule gravel-to-boulder gravel), some-
times with exotics (Fig. 2).
Among the basic lithotypes some sub-lithotypes can be dis-
tinguished according to their structural features, for example,
massive conglomerate ‒ debritic conglomerate (i.e., gravelly
mudstone
sandy mudstone
muddy gravelly sandstone
fine-grained sandstone
medium-grained sandstone
coarse-grained sandstone
fine-grained gravelly sandstone
medium-grained gravelly sandstone
coarse-grained gravelly sandstone
fine-grained sandy conglomerate
medium-grained sandy conglomerate
coarse-grained sandy conglomerate
fine-grained conglomerate
medium-grained conglomerate
coarse-grained conglomerate
Ts
Ms
S -
SG -
sandstone;
gravelly sandst.
CS -
; C -
sandy conglomerate
congl.
S SG CS C
unclear surface of interbedded
(amalgamation)
erosional channel (chute)
paleoflow direction
exotic calcareous rocks
exotic igneous rocks
exotic metamorphic rocks
exotic clasts of other
sedimentary rocks
B
A
0
5
[m]
10
15
20
S SG CS C
covered
S SG CS C
0
5
[m]
10
Fig. 3. Schematic lithological-sedimentological logs of the studied sections. A ‒ Mucharz section (Ms); B ‒ Targoszów section (Ts). For advice
on general position of the profiles see Figs. 1 and 2.
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STRZEBOŃSKI, KOWAL-KASPRZYK and OLSZEWSKA
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debris flow deposit) or normally graded sandstone ‒ turbiditic
sandstone (i.e., sandy turbidity current deposit) (Strzeboński
2015).
These lithotypes are sometimes disturbed to varying
degrees, by being involved in ripped-fold structures, which
were caused by synsedimentary gravity-forced deformations
(slump deposits) (Fig. 2).
The siliciclastics of the IFmBM, especially of the Lower
Istebna Sandstone and the Upper Istebna Sandstone (Fig. 2),
are predominantly characterized by the irregularly developed
beds with horizontally variable thickness, patchy top surfaces,
depositional and erosional pinch-outs. Additionally, thick- and
very thick bedded, mainly amalgamated massive sandstone-
to-conglomerate bodies with interbeds of massive gravelly
mudstone, without regular mudstone intercalations, occur.
Studied sections with calcareous exotic clasts
Mucharz section
The Mucharz section is situated in the orographic left bank
of the Skawa river bend, near the Mucharz village in the
Beskid Mały Mountais, on the area of the future dammed-
water Świnna Poręba reservoir (Fig. 1B–D) (GPS coordinates:
N 49°49.181’; E
19°32.575’; ±5 m). Exotic conglomerate
belongs to the Upper Istebna Sandstone (Paleocene) (Fig. 2)
(see Książkiewicz 1973). The examined exotic-bearing deposit
has a maximum thickness of 230 cm (Fig. 3A), and forms
a tongue-shaped lithosome with basal half-lenticular cross
section (255−75°), clearly showing an irregular, erosional
bottom surface. Exotics occur as clasts of diverse, primarily
crystalline rocks, randomly scattered within the siliciclastic,
non-calcareous matrix (matrix-supported conglomerate).
The matrix is poorly sorted, predominantly sand-sized and
without a macroscopically visible significant amount of clay-
and silt-sized particles (without the dark grey colour of a fine-
grained background). The exotic clasts reach up to 25 cm in
length along the longest axis, and several centimetres in dia-
meter. In the uppermost part of the body they are more dis-
persed in the matrix then in the lower part (Fig. 4A–C). Among
the calcareous exotics, light grey and dark grey micritic lime-
stones and calcareous rocks with clay and silt admixtures,
limestones and silty limestones are the most common,
while light grey organogenic and organodetritic limestones
(Štramberk-type limestones) are rare. According to Wieser
(1948) exotics of the crystalline rocks, collected from this
location, are dominated by diverse varieties of gneiss and
granulite (56.5 and 13 % by frequency respectively), while the
igneous rocks are infrequent (total of 7.5 % freq.), and other
rocks (sedimentary rocks and vain quartz clasts) have 23 %
freq. (op. cit., p. 143 — table 7).
Paleotransport directions were estimated on the basis of the
positioning of the long axes of clasts (flow lineation), clast
overlaps (“imbrications”), geometry of the lithosome, wash-
outs, and chutes (longer axis of the scour-and-fill structures).
The paleotransport directions indicate that the clastic material
with exotics was distributed nearly from S to N (not conside-
ring the orogenic rotation of the Carpathian tectonic units; cf.
e.g., Rauch 2013), and SSE to NNW in the overlain deposit
comprising finer-grained clastic material (Fig. 3A). Directions
observed in the surrounding area, for example, in non-exotic,
thin- to medium-bedded and fine- to medium-grained sand-
stones, based on directional sole structures in the form of tool
marks and flute casts, indicate the sedimentary transport also
from SSW and SW to NNE and NE.
A massive coarse-clastic deposit rich in a sandy matrix and
exotic material can be considered as exotic conglomerate with
a matrix-support structure. A matrix-supported exotic con-
glomerate could be interpreted as a “clean” exotic-bearing
conglomerate debrite, meaning a debritic conglomerate with
exotic clasts and low concentration of pelitic and aleuritic
fractions (sensu particle size). This pebble-sandy debris flow
deposit constitutes filling of the disposable ephemeral channel
— small, single-filled chute (Fig. 3).
Targoszów section
The Targoszów section is a new exotic position located in
the orographic left bank of the Targoszówka stream, near the
Krzeszów Górny and Targoszów villages, in Stryszawa
District in the Beskid Mały Mts. (Fig. 1B, C and E) (GPS
coordinates: N 49°45.280’; E 19°27.613’; ±5 m). Deposits
with exotics belong to the Upper Istebna Sandstone (Fig. 2)
(Nowak 1964). The observed exotics reveal a great variety of
petrographic types (Table 1) and occur in a massive conglo-
merate approx. 60 cm in thickness (Figs. 3B and 4D–F).
The deposit forms a flat in base lithosome without a visible
erosional bottom surface. The matrix of the deposit is rich in
sandy-muddy material, with numerous chaotically scattered
quartz granules. Common exotic clasts are randomly distri-
buted in the matrix and their concentration is 40−60 % by
volume of the debrite. The largest outsized clast was
43×35×22 cm (limestone with cherts), however, the longest
axis of the average clast reaches no more than 10 cm, and their
average volume is ca. 400 cm
3
(Table 1). Clasts of crystalline
rocks prevail (53 % vol. and 89 % freq.) (Table 1). Calcareous
exotics are not abundant in frequency (4.7 %) and similar to
those described from the Mucharz section. Nevertheless, the
present study proved that in terms of volume they have a very
large share (41.5 % vol.) (Table 1).
In the upper part of the profile there is an indistinct, probably
amalgamated, transition to normally graded muddy gravelly
sandstone. Medium-to-fine pebbles and granules are scattered
in massive sandstone rich in a muddy matrix, but exotics are
not present (Fig. 3B).
Paleotransport of the clastic material with exotics, deter-
mined on the basis of similar indicators like in the Mucharz
section, indicates distribution from SSW to NNE, and close to
the direction from SE to NW in the non-exotic deposits occur-
ring just below exotic conglomerate (Fig. 3B). These direc-
tions are repeated laterally in the surrounding area.
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The massive, coarse-clastic deposit, composed of sandy
matrix rich in mud (clay- and silt-sized material), as well as in
quartz granules and outsized exotics, can be considered as
an exotic matrix-supported conglomerate rich in unsorted
sandy-muddy matrix.
An exotic-bearing deposit developed in such a way could be
interpreted as a “dirty” conglomerate debrite, that is a debritic
conglomerate with exotics and with a sandy matrix rich in
high content of fine-sized particles (mud), or as a specific case
of exotic-bearing gravelly mudstone debrite, meaning a deb-
ritic gravelly mudstone with exotics and quartz granules rich
in a sandy matrix, but relatively poor in fine-sized particles
(mud). Presumably it originated from siliciclastic gravelly-
sandy-muddy debris flow and formed an apron-type cover
lithosome (linearly supplied) with no signs of basal erosion,
indicated by a flat base. This debrite, coalesced with the sur-
rounding clastic bodies, is interpreted as a component of the
slope-apron depositional settings.
F
E
D
C
B
A
Fig. 4. Exotic clasts in the siliciclastic-type debrites with prevalence of siliceous and silicate grain material. Mucharz section: A — debrite
represented by matrix-supported conglomerate containing exotic clasts, showing generally a disorganized structure (chaotic dispersed, floating
in sandy matrix quartz granules and exotics), on the left side the slight inverse grading is visible. B — massive gravelly sandstone type debrite,
outsized exotics floating in matrix are clearly visible. C — debrite in the form of clast-supported to matrix-supported exotic conglomerate,
generally massive, partly inversely graded with randomly scattered outsized clasts. Targoszów section: D — massive muddy conglomerate
debrite containing exotic clasts, partly with irregular pockets richer in sandy-granule matrix. At the top part irregular surface with amalgamated
non-exotic muddy gravelly sandstone occurs. E — lower part of the debrite from picture D: shows outsized exotic clasts. F — outsized clast
of organodetritic limestone from debrite described in photo D.
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Results
Exotic clasts in the Istebna Formation of the Beskid Mały Mts.
Deposits with macroscopically discernible crystalline and
sedimentary exotics are rare in the IFmBM (approx. up to 3 %
by volume and up to 0.5 % freq.). They appear mainly in the
Lower Istebna Sandstone (especially at its border with the
Upper Godula Beds) and in the Upper Istebna Sandstone
(especially at the beginning of this sedimentary succession)
(Fig. 2) (e.g., Książkiewicz 1951). Exotic clasts constitute
a component of some siliciclastic deposits (siliceous-silicate
debrites). The most exotics are associated with debritic conglo-
merates, debritic sandy conglomerates and debritic gravelly
mudstones (Figs. 3 and 4), and to a lesser extent with debritic
gravelly sandstones. The qualitative and quantitative results,
based on the authors’ own analysis, are outlined below and
the volumetric relations (percentage by volume) together with
the frequency of occurrence (frequency per cent) of the petro-
graphically diversified clasts are shown in Table 1.
Statistical description of the siliciclastic deposits
Gravelly mudstone debrites make up 7.0 % vol. of the total
thickness of the IFmBM, while conglomerate debrites and
sandy conglomerate debrites, which are chiefly related to
the occurrence of exotics, make up together only 6.6 % vol. of
the thickness in total. Gravelly sandstone debrites, which form
a relatively large bulk of the IFmBM (10 % by volume), only
occasionally contain some exotic rocks. In the sandstone
debri tes, despite their dominance in the formation (51.4 % vol.
and 33.4 % by frequency), no exotics were observed macro-
scopically. In the other lithotypes, exotics were also not found.
Conglomerates with exotic clasts constitute 34 % vol. and
32 % of the frequency (amount) of all the assessed con glo-
merates (2.8 % vol. and 0.7 % by frequency of the IFmBM).
Exotic sandy conglomerates had a 7 % thickness share and
a 6 % frequency share in all the investigated sandy conglo-
merate lithotype (3.8 % vol. and 1.3 % freq., IFmBM).
Occasionally, single specimens of exotics were also present as
outsized clasts in gravelly sandstones. Exotic gravelly mud-
stones made up 15 % by volume and 7 % by frequency among
gravelly mudstones.
In the Targoszów section (Figs. 1C, E and 3B) exotics are
associated with the siliciclastic deposit having transitional
characteristics relative to the above-mentioned “clean” debrite
types. They occur in conglomerate, but with a macroscopi-
cally visible sandy- and mud-rich matrix (dark grey colour of
a fine-grained background).
Among all the observed exotic debrites, namely rocks con-
taining exotic clasts and considered as debris flow deposits,
debrites represented by exotic conglomerates made up 38 % of
the thickness and 62 % of the frequency, while debrites in the
form of sandy conglomerates with exotics made up 10 % vol.
and 23 % by frequency. Therefore, they constitute the domi-
nant exotic debrite association (48 vol. %, 85 freq. %). For
debrites developed as exotic gravelly mudstones the shares
were 42 % and 8 %, respectively, and for debrites classified as
exotic “mudded” sandy conglomerate deposits: 10 % and 7 %.
Metamorphic rocks prevail among the exotics of the Upper
Istebna Sandstone (>50 % by volume and frequency). Usually
there are various types of gneiss, mostly porphyroblastic with
feldspars and micas, and sometimes migmatitic (40 % vol. and
30 % freq.), quartzites (6 and 13 % respectively), crystalline
schists (3 and 8 %), and rare granulites (4 and 7 %) (Table 1).
Clasts of igneous rocks are the least common at most sites
(typically less than 5 % vol/freq., Table 1), rarely up to 20 %,
but only in the Lower Istebna Sandstone (cf. Wieser 1948).
They are usually represented by various granitoids and intru-
sive rocks. Quartz pebbles, probably of vein origin, are rela-
tively numerous and may account for up to 31 % freq., but
only 2 % by volume (Table 1). Clasts of sedimentary rocks are
Rock type
Petrographic type
Volume
per cent
[%]
Frequency
per cent
[%]
Volume
range
[cm
3
]
Average
volume
[cm
3
]
Crystalline
Metamorphic
Gneisses
36.9
50.3
53.2
26.9
54.3
88.6
1–7900
525
355
230
384
Quartzites
5.9
12.9
15–1411
176
Muscovite-biot. sch.
2.1
5.6
< 1–936
146
Sericite-chlor. sch.
0.9
2.3
17–476
153
Granulites
4.5
6.6
6–1428
255
Igneous
Porphyries
0.8
1.0
1.5
3.5
66–338
210
114
Aplites
< 0.1
1.2
< 1–22
12
Granites
0.2
0.8
39–109
74
Vein quartz
1.9
30.8
< 1–245
23
Sedimentary
Sandstones
2.5
46.8
5.1
11.4
42–706
191
1588
Limestones
41.5
4.7
31–23177
3399
Mudstones
2.8
0.8
14–2415
1214
Cherts
<0.1
0.8
29–49
39
Table 1: Percentage composition of the petrographic type clasts, based on a set of 256 specimens, pebble-to-boulder in-size, occurring in
the Upper Istebna Sandstone (Paleocene) of the Istebna Formation (Silesian Series of the Outer Carpathians). The exotic position in the
Targoszów section from the Beskid Mały Mountains as an example.
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usually rarely observed in the exotic populations. Nevertheless,
some local exceptions appear, and then their volume reaches
from a few to a dozen percent. Sandstones and dark cherts,
such as lydites, are predominant in the frequency among
the clasts of sedimentary rocks (6 % freq.), but their volume
share is quite subordinate (about 2 % vol.). Calcareous rocks,
including limestones, are relatively rare (locally up to 5 % freq.),
but they can appear as single large blocks, reaching more than
40 % by volume, which makes this lithological type excep-
tional in this locality (Table 1).
Exotic calcareous rocks
A total of 24 thin sections were prepared from the exotic
calcareous rocks sampled at the studied localities. Four of
them were determined as Tithonian in age, one sample as
Tithonian or alternatively Berriasian in age, one sample as
latest Kimmeridgian or earliest Tithonian in age, one sample
as Cretaceous (not older than Albian) in age, two of them did
not give enough data to enable age determination, and the rest
of them represent the Oxfordian–Kimmeridgian. Generally
the Oxfordian
‒
Kimmeridgian limestones represented diffe-
rent microfacies (MF) to the Tithonian limestones (Fig. 5), but
some exceptions were noted (MF-1, MF-3). Table 2 presents
the described calcareous microfacies. Tables 3 and 4 show
lists of the most important microfossils noted in the lime-
stones, as well as their known ranges, while Fig. 6 illustrates
chosen microfossils.
Conceptual scenario for sedimentation development
During the Late Jurassic‒Early Cretaceous diastrophic
activity in the Alpine Tethys realm, the southern margin of
the North European Platform was reshaped by the northward
advancing, marginal breakdown (partitioning) of the continen-
tal plate and its edging (e.g., Golonka et al. 2000; Olszewska
& Wieczorek 2001). The accommodation space of the proto-
Silesian Basin was formed as a result of geotectonic processes
which took place in the northernmost province of the Outer
Carpathian Tethys (Ślączka 1986; Słomka 2001; Ślączka et al.
2006; Golonka et al. 2008b).
Basal deposits of the Silesian Series observed in field expo-
sures, such as calcareous-to-marly slumps and debris flow
deposits (cf. also Peszat 1968; Słomka 1986, 2001; Górniak
2015), suggest that during the early stages of the basin’s evo-
lution, mostly gravity resediments developed. Calcareclastic
sedimentation was related to erosion of the calcareous sedi-
ments developed on the margins of the proto-Silesian Basin,
including the Silesian Ridge. Firstly chaotic flyschoid deposits
(proto-flysch ‒ structurally flysch-like succession) were accu-
mulated. Calcareclastic slumps and debrites created the early
depositional system in the form of an apron. Afterwards
chaotic sedimentation was ordered. Formation of the calcari-
clastic ramp(s) and more arranged deposition with repeatedly
negative sequences continued horizontally, as with siliciclastic
submarine fans (sensu Reading & Richards 1994; see e.g.,
Słomka 1986, 2001), as well as sedimentation of early calcare-
clastic turbidites, dominated in the architectural setting of the
proto-basin.
The change from calcariclastics to deposits dominated by
siliciclastics, observed in the field sections, may also indicate
that progressively the western part of the Silesian Basin
(initially proto-Silesian) was intensely supplied with silici-
clastic material, which did not favour further development of
the autochthonic calcareous sedimentation (Leszczyński &
Malik 1996).
A large amount of siliciclastic coarse-grained material,
produced especially during the phases of intensified tectonic
activity of the Silesian Ridge, were temporarily accumulated
in the over-slope zone (shelf-edge/normal fault area) and sub-
sequently redeposited by mass-gravity processes into the
deeper basinal environment. Slides and slumps, with increa-
sing fragmentation and downslope acceleration (e.g.,
Wojewoda 2008), evolved into diverse debris flows with
varying participations of particular grain-size fractions of the
clastic material (e.g., sand and gravel, mud and sand or mud
and gravel etc.). For instance, muddy-gravelly debris flows
constituted mass flows of sediment-water mixtures in which
gravel-sized clasts were randomly scattered in a predomi-
nantly muddy matrix. On the other hand sandy-to-gravelly
debris flows were mass flows dominated by a concentrated
mixture of sand and gravel grains, disorderly mixing in various
proportions, and with low content of a mud matrix.
These slumps and debrites created a depositional system in
the form of a siliciclastic slope apron. Subordinately, silici-
clastics also filled single relatively small channels. An addi-
tional element of the depositional apron architecture was
small-scale, but high-relief, lobe-like shaped, coarse-clastic
bodies, which were formed at their mouth.
Hydroplastic behaviour and quasi-laminar state of debris
flows may be affected by aquaplaning (hydroplaning sensu
Shanmugam 2006; Festa et al. 2016). In such a case, decon-
centrating (dilution) of their incoherent clastic masses would
appear as a result. If such mass flows contained, originally or
incorporated during transportation, large amounts of clay- and
silt-sized particles, hydroplaning process may have contri-
buted to at least partial (superficial) transformation of flows
into turbulent suspensions − turbidity currents, and also it may
be partly responsible for longer down-slope transport (e.g.,
Fisher 1983; Shanmugam 2000, 2006, 2016; see also Felix et
al. 2009; Mulder 2011; Strzeboński 2015; Festa et al 2016).
After stopping the bottom part of sediment gravity flow (debris
flow freezing), the upper turbulent part may have been sepa-
rated and accumulated as individual normally graded turbi-
ditic deposits. Hydroplaning could also lead to elutriation of
debris flow matrix and clay-silt particle separation process.
This additionally, besides contributing to induce of suspension
clouds, could be responsible for “cleaning” of debris flows.
The repeated mass redeposition of clastic materials resulted
in the mixing of genetically diverse groups of sediments
(including hemipelagic background sediments), and in the
obliteration of their individual original characteristics includ-
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STRZEBOŃSKI, KOWAL-KASPRZYK and OLSZEWSKA
GEOLOGICA CARPATHICA
, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
ing their sedimentary structures. As a result, this led
to homogenization and development of massive structure
and polygenetic nature of the final debris flow deposits
(debrites).
Discussion
Interpretation of the studied calcareous exotic rocks
Micropaleontological data (mostly based on foraminifera,
calcareous dinoflagellata and tintinnids) from the studied
samples, indicate that the calcareous exotics from the IFmBM
are mostly represented by the Oxfordian–Kimmeridgian rocks
and, occasionally, by the Tithonian (and maybe also Berriasian)
rocks. The Oxfordian–Kimmeridgian calcareous rocks repre-
sent deposits typical for the diverse zones of the carbonate
shelf/ramp with the sponge-microbial buildups. It is a type of
sedimentation very similar to that known from the northern
Tethyan margin — the Carpathian Foredeep basement (e.g.,
Morycowa & Moryc 1976; Gutowski et al. 2007; Krajewski et
al. 2011) and partly the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland (e.g.,
Matyszkiewicz 1989, 1996). Whereas, the Tithonian lime-
stones can be interpreted as deposits of the diversified zones of
A
B
C
D
E
F
0.5 mm
1 mm
0.5 mm
1 mm
1 mm
1 mm
Fig. 5. Examples of the studied exotic limestones (microphotographs; plane polarized light — PPL): A — MF-1: Muddy bioclastic micrite (thin
section S30/5). B — MF-3: Bioclastic wackstone with thin‒shelled bivalves (S30/9). C — MF-4: Wackstone with bioclasts and non-skeletal
grains (S30/2). D — MF-5: Wackstone with remnants of siliceous sponges and non-skeletal grains (S29/7). E — MF-7: Coated packstone/
grainstone (S29/8). F — MF-10: Fine-peloidal packstone/grainstone with peri-reefal components (S30/10).
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Microfacies
General description
Fossils
Age
Sample(s)
MF-1
(see Fig. 5A)
Bioclastic wackstone
(or, more often, muddy
bioclastic micrite).
Fine, broken elements of echinoderms (including planktonic crinoids Saccocoma sp.),
calcified radiolarians and sponge spicules, carapaces of ostracods, planktonic green algae
Globochaete alpina, calcareous dinoflagellata (Cadosina parvula, Colomisphaera
lapidosa, Col. carpathica, Col. fibrata, Col. minutissima, Col. pieniniensis,
Crustocadosina semiradiata semiradiata, Cr. semiradiata olzae, Committosphaera pulla,
Carpistomiosphaera borzai, Stomiosphaera moluccana), foraminifera (calcareous benthic,
i.a., Spirillina andreae, S. elongata, Rumanolina feifeli seiboldi, R. feifeli feifeli,
Ophthalmidium sp., Neotrocholina valdensis, Lenticulina sp., Nodosarioidea; rare
agglutinated; rare planktonic Globuligerina oxfordiana), rare calpionellids –
Crassicollaria sp. (in the Tithonian sample).
• Latest
Oxfordian–
earliest (and late?)
Kimmeridgian
• Kimmeridgian/
Tithonian
• Late Tithonian
• S29/11
S29/15
S30/4
S30/5
S30/18
• S29/4
• S29/2
MF-2
Muddy echinoderm-
peloidal allochem
limestone.
Echinoderms (mostly Saccocoma elements), calcified sponge spicules, fragments of thin-
shelled bivalves, G. alpina, calcareous dinoflagellata (i.e., Colomisphaera fibrata),
foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e., R. feifeli feifeli, Spirillina sp., Lenticulina sp.; rare
agglutinated).
Latest Oxfordian
or (more probably)
earliest
Kimmeridgian
S29/14
MF-3
(see Fig. 5B)
Bioclastic wackstone with
thin-shelled bivalves.
Thin-shelled bivalves, calcified sponge spicules, elements of echinoderms (including
Saccocoma), carapaces of ostracods, G. alpina, calcareous dinoflagellata (i.e., Cadosina
fusca fusca, C. parvula, Col. lapidosa, Col. minutissima, Col. pieniniensis, St.
moluccana), foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e., R. feifeli feifeli, Spirillina tenuissima;
rare agglutinated).
• Kimmeridgian
• ?Tithonian
• S30/7
S30/9
• S29/6
MF-4
(see Fig. 5C)
Wackstone (or muddy
micrite) with bioclasts
and non-skeletal grains:
peloids, intraclasts, grains
of microbial origin,
cortoids, small oncoids.
Fragments of bivalve and gastropod shells, elements of crinoids, echinoids and
ophiuroids, carapaces of ostracods, calcified radiolarians and remnants of siliceous
sponges, few ammonites aptychus, G. alpina, calcareous dinoflagellata (i.e., C. parvula,
Col. fibrata, Col. pieniniensis), foraminifera (calcareous benthic: Spirillina tenuissima, R.
gr. feifeli, Ophthalmidium pseudocarinatum, O. strumosum, Cornuspira sp., Lenticulina
sp., Nubeculariidea, Nodosarioidea; agglutinated, i.e., Ammobaculites sp., Ammodiscus
sp., Glomospira sp., Reophax sp.; planktonic foraminifera).
Oxfordian–
earliest
Kimmeridgian
S29/1
S29/3
S29/12
S30/2
MF-5
(see Fig. 5D)
Wackstone/packstone
with remnants of siliceous
sponges and non-skeletal
grains (like in MF-4).
Calcified remnants of siliceous sponges, fragments of bivalve and gastropod shells,
elements of crinoids (including Saccocoma), echinoids and ophiuroids, carapaces of
ostracods, calcified radiolarians, calcareous dinoflagellata (i.e., Col. lapidosa, Col. fibrata,
Committosphaera czestochowiensis), G. alpina, microproblematica Koskinobullina
socialis, foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e., S. andreae, Bullopora tuberculata,
Lenticulina sp., Rumanolina sp., Ophthalmidium sp., Epistominidae, Nodosarioidea,
Nubeculariidea; agglutinated, i.e., Protomarssonella jurassica, Ammobaculites sp.;
planktonic, i.e., G. oxfordiana).
Oxfordian–
earliest
Kimmeridgian
S29/5
S29/7
MF-6
Microoncoid-bioclastic
packstone/grainstone with
numerous thin-shelled
bivalves.
Non-skeletal grains:
peloids, cortoids, small
intraclasts. Bioclasts often
constitute nucleuses of
microoncoids.
Elements of Saccocoma (relatively numerous), other crinoids and holothurians, gastropod
shells, carapaces of ostracods, calcified sponge spicules, G. alpina, calcareous
dinoflagellata (i.e., C. fusca fusca, Cr. semiradiata semiradiata, Col. pieniniensis)
foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e., R. feifeli feifeli, Spirillina sp., Lenticulina sp.,
miliolids; less frequent agglutinated; relatively numerous planktonic, i.e., Compactogerina
stellapolaris).
Kimmeridgian
S30/1
MF-7
(see Fig. 5E)
Coated packstone/
grainstone.
Non-skeletal grains:
cortoids, oncoids, peloids,
intraclasts, aggregate
grains.
Gastropod and bivalve shells, Dasycladales algae, fragments of bryozoan colonies,
elements of crinoids and echinoids, single coral, calcimicrobes, G. alpina,
microploblematica: K. socialis and Thaumatoporella parvovesiculifera, calcareous
dinoflagellata (i.e., Cr. semiradiata semiradiata), foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e.,
Crescentiella morronensis, Frentzenella odukpaniensis, Mohlerina basiliensis,
Coscinoconus alpinus, miliolids; agglutinated: Paleogaudryina sp., Verneuilina sp.,
Melathrokerion sp.).
Not older than late
Tithonian
S29/8
MF-8
Peloidal-bioclastic-
intraclastic packstone/
grainstone.
Elements of crinoids and echinoids, fragments of bryozoan colonies, bivalve and
gastropod shells, Dasycladales algae, calcareous sponges (Neuropora), tubes of serpulid
worms, carapaces of ostracods, decapoda Carpathocancer triangulatus, calpionellids
(Crassicollaria sp., Calpionella alpina), calcareous dinoflagellata (Cr. semiradiata
semiradiata, C. fusca fusca, Col. carpathica, Col. tenuis), foraminifera (calcareous
benthic, i.e., C. morronensis, Siphovalvulina variabilis, Neotrocholina sp.,
Protopeneroplis ultragranulata, P. striata, M. basiliensis, Dobrogelina ovidi, miliolids;
agglutinated, i.e., Uvigerinammina uvigeriniformis, Paleogaudryina sp.).
Late Tithonian
S29/9
MF-9
Microbial-calcareous
sponge boundstone.
Calcareous sponge, incrusting bryozoans, Saccocoma, G. alpina, microproblematica
Lithocodium aggregatum, calcareous dinoflagellata (Colomisphaera sp.), rare
chitinoidellids, foraminifera (calcareous benthic: i.e., C. morronensis, Troglotella
incrustans, Neotrocholina sp., Protopeneroplis sp., Nubeculariidea, miliolids;
agglutinated, i.e., Valvulina sp., Protomarssonella sp., Trochammina sp.).
early/late
Tithonian
S29/13
MF-10
(see Fig. 5F)
Fine-peloidal packstone/
grainstone with peri-reefal
components.
Corals, bivalve and gastropods shells, Dasycladales algae, elements of crinoids and
echinoids, carapaces of ostracods, tubes of serpulid worms, G. alpina, microproblematica
L. aggregatum and K. socialis, “bacinellid” fabrics, calcareous dinoflagellata (Cr.
semiradiata semiradiata), rare chitinoidellids, foraminifera (calcareous benthic, i.e., C.
morronensis, T. incrustans, Moesiloculina histri, Trocholina sp., Coscinoconus sp.;
agglutinated, i.e., Coscinophragma cribrosum, Textularia sp., Valvulina sp.,
Placopsilininae).
early/late
Tithonian
S30/10
MF-11
Muddy micrite with rare
microfossils.
Calcareous dinoflagellata, planktonic foraminifera (of such genus like Hedbergella,
Globigerinelloides, Heterohelix).
not older than
Albian
S29/16
Table 2: Description of the microfacies of the studied exotic calcareous rocks.
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carbonate platforms (so-called Štramberk-type limestones)
with reefs built by corals, microbes, and calcareous sponges,
less often as deposits of the deeper zones (see also Eliáš &
Eliášová 1984; Hoffmann & Kołodziej 2008). Oxfordian–
Kimmeridgian sedimentation in the palaeogeographic area of
the future Silesian Ridge was probably similar to sedimen-
tation developed in the areas situated northward in the epi-
continental basin, while during the Tithonian–Berriasian
the Štramberk-type carbonate platform was developed on
the Silesian Ridge, and calcareous deposition also took place
in the deeper zones.
The age of the oldest analysed calcareous exotics
(Oxfordian–Kimmeridgian) agrees with the time interval,
when most probably the initial diastrophic processes forming
this part of the Alpine Tethys realm took place. Intensification
of these processes, as seen in the southern regions of Central
Europe, caused the progressive geotectonic-gravity blocky
breakdown of the SW periphery of the North European
Platform. It forced a subsequent extension of the north
province of the Alpine Tethys and formation of a new accom-
modation space — the early Outer Carpathian sub-basins (e.g.,
Książkiewicz 1953; Unrug 1968; Ślączka 1986; Słomka 1986;
Olszewska & Wieczorek 2001; Poprawa et al. 2002, 2004;
Golonka et al. 2008b). The oldest known deposits of the
Silesian Series — the Vendryně Formation — are dated as l atest
Kimmeridgian in age (Olszewska et al. 2008). Nevertheless, it
is possible that basal detachment of deposits, which took place
during formation of the Carpathian tectonic units (see Paul et
al. 1996), may not have been located at the strict bottom of
the primary basinal series, and then the beginning of the his-
tory of these sedimentary areas may be older.
The younger limestones observed among the studied exo-
tics, dated as Tithonian (possibly also Berriasian) in age can be
interpreted as the indicators of the development of calcareous
sedimentation in the shallow zone of the newly shaped proto-
Silesian Basin. On the other hand, they indicate submarine
abrasion of these platforms and resedimentation of their cal-
careous clastic material (calciruditic-to-calcilutitic sediments)
into the deeper basin and its mixing with deposits of the sedi-
mentary background (e.g., Bieda et al. 1963; Peszat 1968;
Matyszkiewicz & Słomka 1994; Leszczyński & Malik 1996;
Słomka 2001).
A single clast of muddy micrite, determined as not older
than Albian in age, is most probably a resedimented fragment
of the deposits from the Silesian Series and could constitute
an example of the recycling (so-called “cannibalism” sensu
Matyszkiewicz & Słomka 1994) of the Carpathian sedimen-
tary series.
AGE
TAXON
Ophthalmidium pseudocarinatum (Dain)
FORAMINIFERA
Oxfordian
Kimmeridgian
Tithonian
Ophthalmidium strumosum (Gümbel)
Rumanolina feifeli feifeli (Paalzow)
Rumanolina feifeli seiboldi (Lutze)
Globuligerina oxfordiana (Grigelis)
Protomarssonella jurassica (Mityanina)
Spirillina andreae Bielecka
Bullopora tuberculata (Sollas)
Spirillina elongata Bielecka, Pożaryski
Spirillina tenuissima Gümbel
Compactogerina stellapolaris (Grigelis)
CALCAREOUS DINOFLAGELLATA
Colomisphaera lapidosa (Vogler)
Colomisphaera fibrata (Nagy)
Colomisphaera pieniniensis (Borza)
Crustocadosina semiradiata semiradiata (Wanner)
Cadosina parvula Nagy
Committosphaera czestochowiensis Řehánek
Colomisphaera minutissima sensu Nowak
Globochaete alpina Lombard
OTHER MICROFOSSILS
Saccocoma sp.
157.3
152.1
Early
M
Late
Early
Early
Late
Late
Table 3: List and known ranges of the most important microfossils from the Oxfordian−Kimmeridgian exotic limestones. Age after
Ogg et al. (2016).
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Origin of the siliciclastics of the Istebna Fm.
The specific features of the IFmBM (see subchapter:
Depositional lithofacies) show that the south facial zone of
the western part of the Silesian Basin was periodically supplied
by a large amount of coarse-grained siliciclastic material in
the Late Cretaceous‒Palaeocene.
It also indicates successive stages of the Silesian Ridge acti-
vation, connected with the intensification of the compressive
regime in the Outer Carpathian region and the progressive
intense denudation of this source area. This type of deposits
originated from a large scale of production, resedimentation,
as well as mass transport and mass deposition of these clastic
materials. It was genetically linked to the syngeotectonically
enhanced denudation and the over-covering of shores and
offshore of the source areas. Accordingly, a large amount of
terrigenic siliciclastics was delivered to the basin and gravita-
tionally poured into the deeper, more distal zones. Finally,
disorderly (“chaotic”) setting of such series is due to prevalent
slumps and debris flows. Therefore intense denudation of the
emerged fragments of the Silesian Ridge was the main factor
responsible for the origin of such coarse-grained clastics.
AGE
FORAMINIFERA
Berriasian
Neotrocholina valdensis Reichel
Mohlerina basiliensis (Mohler)
Frentzenella odukpaniensis (Dessauvagie)
Siphovalvulina variabilis Septfontaine
Protopeneroplis ultragranulata (Gorbatchik)
Dobrogelina ovidi Neagu
Uvigerinammina uvigeriniformis (Seibold, Seibold)
Troglotella incrustans Wernli, Fookes
Coscinophragma cribrosum (Reuss)
Moesiloculina histri (Neagu)
Coscinoconus alpinus Leupold
CALPIONELLIDS
Colomisphaera tenuis (Nagy)
Colomisphaera lapidosa (Vogler)
Crustocadosina semiradiata semiradiata (Wanner)
Colomisphaera minutissima sensu Nowak
Crustocadosina semiradiata olzae (Nowak)
Committosphaera pulla (Borza)
Carpistomiosphaera borzai (Nagy)
Stomiosphaera moluccana Wanner
Cadosina fusca fusca Wanner
Colomisphaera carpathica (Borza)
Crassicollaria sp.
Crescentiella morronensis (Crescenti)
CALCAREOUS DINOFLAGELLATA
Globochaete alpina Lombard
Saccocoma sp.
Koskinobullina socialis Cherchi, Schroeder
Thaumatoporella parvovesiculifera (Raineri)
Carpathocancer triangulatus (Mišík, Soták, Ziegler)
Calpionella alpina Lorenz
Chitinoidella sp.
Lithocodium aggregatum s.l.
OTHER MICROFOSSILS
152.1
145.0
TAXON
Tithonian
Kimmeridgian
Early
Early
Late
Late
Late
Early
Table 4: List and known ranges of the most important microfossils from the Tithonian (and alternatively Berriasian) exotic limestones.
Age after Ogg et al. (2016).
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A
50 µm
E
50 µm
50 µm
50 µm
20 µm
F
50 µm
100 µm
20 µm
N
M
50 µm
250 µm
20 µm
20 µm
B
C
D
50 µm
G
20 µm
20 µm
H
I
20 µm
J
K
250 µm
L
100 µm
O
100 µm
P
Q
R
20 µm
S
20 µm
T
Fig. 6. Examples of microfossils from the Oxfordian‒Kimmeridgian exotic limestones: A — Ophthalmidium strumosum (Gümbel) (S29/3).
B — Spirillina andreae Bielecka (S30/4). C — Rumanolina feifeli feifeli (Paalzow) (S29/11). D — Spirillina tenuissima Gümbel (S30/18).
E — Compactogerina stellapolaris (Grigelis) (S30/1). F — Globuligerina oxfordiana (Grigelis) (S19/32). G — Cadosina parvula Nagy
(S29/3). H — Colomisphaera fibrata (Nagy) (S29/12). I — Colomisphaera pieniniensis (Borza) (S29/11). J — Saccocoma sp. (S30/1).
Examples of microfossils from the latest Kimmeridgian/Tithonian‒Berriasian exotic limestones: K — Mohlerina basiliensis (Mohler) (S29/9).
L — Frentzenella odukpaniensis (Dessauvagie) (S29/8). M — Moesiloculina histri (Neagu), (S30/10). N — Protopeneroplis striata
Weynschenk (S29/9). O — Protopeneroplis ultragranulata (Gorbatchik) (S29/9). P — Colomisphaera tenuis (Nagy) (S29/2).
Q — Colomisphaera carpathica (Borza) (S29/9). R — Crustocadosina semiradiata olzae (Nowak) (S29/2). S — Carpistomiosphaera borzai
(Nagy) (S31/7). T — Chitinoidella sp. (S29/9).
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THE PALEOCENE SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITS OF THE ISTEBNA FORMATION
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, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
The uplifted ridge forced relative regression, and resulted in
successive exposition of the proximal basinal deposits. In the
edge zone of the shelf margin with fronts of prograding clastic
bodies (e.g., Porębski & Steel 2006) and the proximal slope
zone, the angle of repose was increasing. In such a situation
even a slight change of inclination of such zones can cause
loss of stability and failure/collapse of a large amounts of
accumulated, non-consolidated material. It was another factor
causing large-scale mass resedimentation. Described pro-
cesses contributed to the release of mass wasting, such as
slumps, which was responsible for development of slope
debris flows (gravelly-sandy and muddy-sandy-gravelly type),
including mass flows with exotics. It should be emphasized
that such events like catastrophic floods and storms, earth-
quakes, tsunami or submarine gas escapes etc. (see details in
Shanmugam 2016) may constitute additional initial impulses,
triggering activation/reactivation of the gravity-powered sedi-
mentary processes. However, we may only speculate in this
respect.
Directions repeating in lateral propagation in the IFmBM,
created an approximate pattern of parallel pathways for trans-
porting clastic material (in relation to the source area). This
indicates that the discussed deposits were accumulated in the
siliciclastic cover of a linearly supplied apron depositional
system (sensu Reading & Richards 1994, see also Słomka
1995).
General lack of ordered “fan” sequences (sensu Reading &
Richards 1994) indicates that disorganized complexes formed
irregular coarse-clastic apron covers, built of amalgamated
deposits of slumps and debris flows. Paleotransport directions
were parallel to each other and perpendicular to the longer axis
of the basin, suggesting linear supply. These observations can
suggest development of the linearly sourced apron deposi-
tional system.
The Subsilesian elevation, which constituted the northern
margin of the Silesian Basin (cf. Książkiewicz 1962; Ślączka
1986), did not have a significant alimentary influence during
the sedimentation of the Istebna Fm. Structures indicating
paleotransport from the north are observed very rarely.
Origin of the calcareous exotics
During the later (post-Valanginian) phases of the sedimen-
tary filling in the western part of the Silesian Basin, intense
calcareous sedimentation was hampered by the previously
described processes. Accordingly, shallow-water carbonate
sedimentation was not extended in this area, and pure calca-
reous resediments were not deposited.
Taking under consideration both the formation time and
thickness of the Upper Istebna Sandstone deposits from the
Beskid Mały Mts. (assuming 150 m and 5 Ma respectively)
(Fig. 2), we can suppose that periodical uplift and denudation
of the western part of the Silesian Ridge in Paleocene had to
be significantly increased, however, the calculated accumu-
lation rate, ca. 30 m/Ma (delivered to the Silesian Basin)
does not properly reflect the real size and power of these
geotectonic-sedimentary processes. Dynamic growth of the
source area activity corresponds better to the lower Istebna
Formation (Late Cretaceous sedimentation) — ca. 100 m/Ma
(Fig. 2), though even a much higher value of the ratio would
be possible, for example, if compaction or intra-basinal ero-
sion together with large-scale redeposition of the clastic mate-
rial, were included. It seems possible that before deposition of
the Istebna Fm., the Silesian Ridge was deeply denuded and
mainly its crystalline base was significantly eroded during
deposition of the formation (e.g., Unrug 1968). This agrees
with data on the predominance of crystalline exotics in these
deposits (almost 90 % by frequency and more than 50 % by
volume) (Table 1). Therefore, it is probable that exotic calca-
reous rocks in the IFmBM come mainly from the secondary
sources — from the recycling of the older, thick clastic, flysch
deposits, which were eroded, reworked and redeposited. It can
be called exotic recycling — re-use of the older exotic clasts.
A larger role of the primary source in the origin of exotic
limestones would be possible to some extent, for example,
following the model of the synsedimentary anatectic block
half-rotations and reverses (cf. Dadlez & Jaroszewski 1994).
The fragments of the Silesian Ridge inclined in such a way,
with the front slopes covered by the carbonate platform, may
have been gradually rotated and exposed. It is probable that
during their periodical uplift and emerging (rotation), even in
the late, pre- or early orogenic stage of the flysch sediment
development, both secondary and primary calcareous material
was delivered into the basin. In this case the primary, pre-
served calcareous material would come from this part of the
cover of the Silesian Ridge, which had been semi- or fully
submerged until that time. Accordingly, crystalline clasts may
have come from the gradually exposed crystalline basement of
the Silesian Ridge (primary source), as well as from recycling
of the older flysch, and possibly also pre-flysch deposits
(secondary source).
Diversified textural maturity of the observed exotic clasts,
as well as their petrographic differentiation, microfacies
variety, and stratigraphic range, suggest that some of the
exotics come directly from the source area, while others are
recycled from the older flysch deposits.
Distribution and diversity of the exotic material
As previously mentioned, significant qualitative and quanti-
tative differences are observed in calcareous exotic material
between the areas situated farther west and east from the
Beskid Mały Mts. In the Beskid Mały Mts. the Oxfordian–
Kimmeridgian rocks prevail over the Tithonian–Berriasian
ones (Fig. 7). Thus, only a small amount of material coming
from erosion of the latest Jurassic–earliest Cretaceous car-
bonate platforms was delivered to the part of the Silesian
Basin corresponding to the Beskid Mały area during the
Paleocene deposition, while the amount of fragments (mostly
small) of the older, Oxfordian–Kimmeridgian calcareous
rocks, was relatively large in the deposits representing the
IFmBM.
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Irregularity and diachronicity of the dia-
strophic activity in the particular regions of
the Carpathian province (e.g., Słomka 1995),
should be taken under consideration to
explain the diversified distribution of the
calcareous clasts in the flysch deposits.
These factors had to have influence on both
the source and basinal areas: diachronic
uplift and emergence of source areas and
diversified subsidence and accommodation
of sedimentary sub-basins. For that reason,
the general tendency for a relatively rare
occurrence of calcareous exotics in the
Istebna Fm., especially in the western part
of the Silesian Nappe, and for a distinct
increase of their amount farther east from the Beskid Mały
Mts., may be interpreted as a result of a larger reduction of
the primary sedimentary cover of the Silesian Ridge in its
western part. This might be due to the diachronic activity of
fragments of the Silesian Ridge. This means that in the first
place “islands” emerged in the western part of the Silesian
Ridge, and then, the emergence of the ridge progressed east-
ward (e.g., Unrug 1968; Matyszkiewicz & Słomka 1994;
Słomka 1995). It is also possible that the primary development
of the Mesozoic sedimentary cover was diversified in space
and thickness. In this context, before the beginning of the Late
Cretaceous–Early Paleogene flysch sedimentation, the Upper
Jurassic and lowest Cretaceous carbonate cover in the western
part of the Silesian Ridge may have been eroded to a large
degree, while in the eastern part that cover may have been
longer preserved or better developed.
The irregular distribution of exotic clasts could also be
influenced by the geometry of the Silesian Ridge. This alimen-
tary area constituted a strongly elongated, probably fragmen-
ted tectonic elevation (e.g., Unrug, 1968), with parts in different
places that may have been uplifted, submerged, trans for-
mationally displaced and half-rotated at different times and
with varied intensity. A laterally and vertically diver sified
denu dation would be due to such processes. It would have
involved diversification in the volume and fraction-sizes of
material delivered to the basin, and development of varied
gravity flows, and, as a consequence, development of various
depositional systems.
Geotectonicsedimentary pulses in the development of the
Silesian Basin
Very coarse-clastic deposits in the lowest parts of the Lower
Istebna Sandstone and Upper Istebna Sandstone, indicate
the beginning of the new sedimentary phases of the basin’s
sedimentary filling. Such intervals reflect especially the pulsar
geotectonic activity generating forced regressions: relative
sea-level falls. A basal position of the coarse-grained, often
exotic-bearing accumulations is connected with a relatively
rapid and intense beginning of the regional intensification of
the compressive tectonic regime.
These stages have a significant influence on the sedimentary
basin-filling style, lithofacies composition and development
of the depositional system architecture.
Generally, non-channelized slope-apron covers, dominated
by massive, amalgamated, thick bedded and coarse-grained
siliciclastics, occur initially as a consequence of an increase in
the diastrophic activity. The intensified tectonic uplift of the
source areas after a period of relative calm resulted in the
induction of the submarine mass-gravity processes — princi-
pally slumps and debris flows (e.g., Słomka 1986, 2001).
Diastrophic moderation and formation of preferential, rela-
tively stable ways of transport of the detrital material (chan-
nels) induced the formation of the piedmont siliciclastic ramps
— multiple, overlapping submarine fans (sensu Reading &
Richards 1994; see also Słomka 1995).
Distinct exotic enrichment and presence of conglomerate
deposits in the lowest part of the Upper Istebna Sandstone,
compared with other finer-grained deposits without exotic
clasts of the Istebna Fm. in the study region, constitute an addi-
tional indicator, suggesting that this interval with coarse-
grained siliciclastic sedimentation was a beginning of the
next, extremely intense phase of the tectono-sedimentary
activity in this part of the Silesian Basin, which was a paleo-
geographic equivalent of the contemporary Beskid Mały Mts.
In this respect, occurrence of conglomerates, exotic conglo-
merates and synsedimentary disturbed deposits close to the
uppermost part of the Lower Istebna Beds (see Fig. 2), can be
practically used in the mapping and can be treated as indica-
tors helpful for the separation of the Upper Istebna Sandstone
subdivision in the Beskid Mały Mts., especially when coarse-
clastic deposits have coalesced (above-mentioned lack of
the Lower Istebna Shale). The lithofacies boundary between
the Lower Istebna Beds and the Upper Istebna Beds (Fig. 2)
may be diachronic (e.g., Szydło et al. 2015). Diachronity of
the lower boundary of the Lower Istebna Shale in relation to
the Cretaceous/Paleogene boundary (K/Pg) may be a result of
the non-simultaneous development of the particular sedimen-
tation types along the whole area of the western part of the
Silesian Basin. The boundary between the lower Istebna Fm.
and upper Istebna Fm. in the Western Beskids can appear
in the time interval between the latest Maastrichtian and
A
B
C
D
Fig. 7. Comparison of the diversified age of the exotic calcareous rocks from: A – diverse
formations (Lower Cretaceous‒Oligocene) from the western part of the Polish Outer
Carpathians (390 exotic clasts); B — Lower Istebna Beds: Rożnów, Wiśnicz and Wieliczka
Foothills and Beskid Wyspowy Mts. (59 exotic clasts). C — Upper Istebna Beds: Tarnawa
(Wiśnicz Foothills) (13 exotic clasts). D — Upper Istebna Beds: Beskid Mały Mts.
(24 exotic clasts). Based on: this work and Kowal-Kasprzyk (2016).
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THE PALEOCENE SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITS OF THE ISTEBNA FORMATION
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, 2017, 68, 6, 562–582
the lowest Paleocene (Fig. 2). Determination of the lowest
Paleocene biozones which document the K/Pg boundary is
problematic (e.g., Jugowiec-Nazarkiewicz & Szydło 2013),
and further biostratigraphic study and sedimentological facies
analysis are required.
Conclusions
The results, shown in relation to the existing state of know-
ledge on the history of the Carpathian basinal development,
indicate successively:
• Late Jurassic development of the calcareous sedimentation
on the south margin of the North European Platform and
marginal diversification of this area into the lowered and
elevated tectonic zones: the future proto-Silesian Basin and
the Silesian Ridge;
• development of the autochthonous calcareous sedimenta-
tion in the shallow-water zones of the Silesian Ridge (mostly
during the Tithonian–Berriasian);
• uplifting and emerging of the fragments of the Silesian
Ridge, contributing to erosion of the older deposits, and
development of the large-scale, gravity-driven sedimentary
mass processes (slumps, debris flows) on the slope, causing
mass redeposition of calcareous materials;
• exposing (tectonically and/or eustatically) the older flysch
deposits and incorporating their materials into the newly
deve loping basinal successions (flysch recycling processes);
• subsequent geotectonic−quasi-eustatic pulses in this area,
meaning recurrence of tectonic increase in the activity of the
source areas corresponding to tectonically forced regression
— development of the mass deep-water siliciclastic- domi-
nated sedimentation (e.g., sandstone-to-conglomerate depo-
sits of the IFmBM, occasionally debrites with exotics).
Analyses of the sedimentological attributes of coarse-
grained siliciclastics and the exotic-bearing deposits of the
IFmBM, suggest that:
• they originated from the deep-water sediment gravity-indu-
ced failures (mostly slumps), progressively evolving, pre-
dominantly in diverse submarine debris flows;
• efficient development of such mass-transport- and mass-depo-
sit processes in the basin area was spread from the “shelf”-
edge, by the proximal slope to the slope-foot (distal zone);
• usually massive, mainly matrix-supported (clast-in-matrix
structure) deposit types formed tongue-shaped, lenticular,
laterally discontinuous amalgamated debritic lithosomes;
• disorganized clastic bodies were accumulated in the form of
the merging covers of the linearly supplied apron deposi-
tional system. Subordinately, they also filled erosional
washouts and ephemeral chutes in a form of ordinarily
single and unstable relatively small channels.
The calcareous exotics (Oxfordian–Tithonian, and alterna-
tively Berriasian in age) found in the IFmBM most probably
originated from:
• sedimentary cover of the southern margin of the North
European Platform, deposited before sedimentation of the
oldest known deposits from the proto-Silesian Basin (e.g.,
Vendryně Fm.);
• shallow-water, synsedimentary calcareous deposits deve-
loped in the early stage of the alimentary activity of the
Silesian Ridge;
• secondary source — erosion of the basinal calcariclastics as
well as siliciclastics with calcareous exotics and their rede-
position into the younger siliciclastic flysch series.
Relatively infrequent occurrence of the calcareous exotics
(mainly Late Jurassic in age) and irregularity of their lateral
and vertical distribution in IFmBM may be explained by:
• general polarization of the intense, but variable in time and
space elevation of the Silesian paleogeographic area and
diversification of its geological structure;
• influence of the intense, but spatially and temporally diver-
sified denudation of the particular uplifted and emerged
fragments of the source area — the essential depletion of the
Upper Jurassic calcareous source rocks before the Late
Cretaceous–Paleocene sedimentation in the discussed paleo-
geographic area;
• relatively small and irregular distribution of the proto-
flysch calcariclastics in the Silesian Series (for a potential
re-use);
• lithotype diversification of the Istebna Fm. — deposits with
macroscopically distinguishable exotic clasts (conglome-
rate debrites, sandy conglomerate debrites and gravelly
mudstone debrites) are not abundant in this formation;
• faster natural physical and chemical destruction of calca-
reous clasts compared to clasts of crystalline rocks; accor-
dingly, calcareous material goes into the finer fraction and
finally into solution, causing secondary allogenic liminess
of siliciclastics;
• recycling of the exotic clasts (exotics of the recycled origin)
— their reworking and resedimentation into the younger
basinal series.
It is clear, therefore, that the provenance and origin of
calcareous exotics are very complex and problematic.
Acknowledgements: The authors are greatly indebted to
G. Shanmugam and the anonymous reviewers, as well as to
the editors for their perceptive and constructive comments,
valuable suggestions and linguistic support, which helped us
to improve the manuscript. Marcin Krajewski (AGH University)
is thanked for helpful discussion about the epicontinental Late
Jurassic deposits. This publication has been financially sup-
ported by State Committee for Scientific Research (KBN)
grant no. 6 P04D 025 18, National Science Centre (NCN)
grant no. N N307 057740 and Brian J. O’Neill Memorial
Grant-in-Aid for Ph.D. Research 2014.
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