Palynology and sequence stratigraphy of three Devonian rock units in the Apucarana Sub-basin (Paraná Basin, south Brazil): Additional data and correlation

The classical Devonian rock units in the Apucarana Sub-basin (Paraná Basin), i.e. Ponta Grossa shales, Tibagi sandstones and São Domingos shales were defined by Oliveira (1912) and Bodziak and Maack (1946). Their original definitions have virtually been neglected in the subsequent literature. Ponta Grossa sensu Oliveira and São Domingos sensu Maack are formally proposed as formations, and Tibagi sensu Oliveira as a member of the São Domingos Formation. Lecto- and parastratotype sections for the Ponta Grossa and São Domingos Formations are defined. Furthermore, a neostratotype section for the Tibagi Member of the São Domingos Formation, as well as reference sections for the base of the Ponta Grossa and São Domingos Formations have been defined. The formations are compared to the revised 3rd order sequence stratigraphy of the Paraná Basin.

► Palynomorph datings have been performed on Devonian rocks in the Apucarana Sub-basin.
► Devonian formations are proposed and compared with the sequence stratigraphy.
► Ponta Grossa Formation is dated late Pragian–early Emsian.
► Tibagi sandstones are considered as a member of the São Domingos Formation.
► São Domingos Formation is dated early late Emsian to early late Frasnian.