Sedimentary basins evolution and olistoliths formation: The case of Carpathian and Sicilian regions

Comparative research carried out within two different basins, one in the Carpathians of Poland (Late Jurassic to Early Miocene) and another in the Apenninic-Maghrebian mountain chain of Sicily (Triassic-Miocene), indicate significant similarity not only in their evolution but also in the sedimentary features of horizons with olistoliths. The olistolith-bearing units are genetically related to stages of tectonic evolution and are independent of the size of the basins and of duration of these stages. However, the observed differences in composition and size of olistoliths suggested, among the others relationship with the size of source areas and thickness of their sedimentary cover.

► Olistoliths in orogenic basins were connected with all stages of their evolution. ► We compared two different basins, in Carpathians and in Appennines of Sicily. ► Despite of differences in duration of evolution history of basins was similar. ► Some observed differences in olistoliths were effect of build of source areas. ► Most important were size of source areas and thickness of sedimentary cover.