Coral bioconstruction in a Burdigalian mixed siliciclastic-carbonate coastal system (Cala Paraguano, Corsica)

Abstract

This study presents facies analysis and a depositional model of a middle-lower Burdigalian mixed siliciclasticcarbonate system, characterized by coral bioconstructions, cropping out at Cala Paraguano (southern Corsica). Sedimentary facies, tracing stratigraphic surfaces, stratal and bioconstruction geometries were identified along a sea-cliff exposure. The sedimentary facies described and interpreted are coral rudstone to floatstone, coral domestone and maerl. The coral rudstone to floatstone indicates a highly energetic environment and possibly associated with vegetated areas, whereas the coral domestone was originated by small size patch reefs. These facies grade basinward into the maerl facies, which represents a deeper zone colonized by red algae and subordinate large benthic foraminifers. The Cala Paraguano deposits document a case were terrigenous input in a mixed siliciclastic-carbonate coastal setting does not prevent the development of coral patch reefs.