Thanetian transgressive-regressive sequences based on foraminiferal paleobathymetry at Gebel Matulla, west-central Sinai, Egypt

•Two Thanetian fourth order transgressive-regressive (T–R) sequences are distinguished.•Correlations of the recorded sequences are based on planktonic foraminiferal biostratigraphy.•Sequences are controlled by eustatic processes.•Three benthic foraminiferal assemblages are recorded.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of Thanetian foraminiferal assemblages at Gebel Matulla in west-central Sinai has been carried out. Three benthic foraminiferal assemblages are recorded from shallowest to deepest as Cibicidoides pseudoacutus, Angulogavelinella avnimelechi, Gavelinella danica witch evidences of fluctuations from middle neritic to upper bathyal environments. Changes in the foraminiferal population enabled us to classify the Thanetian succession into two fourth order transgressive-regressive (T–R) sequences. Three sequence boundaries are identified, at the Selandian/Thanetian (S/T) boundary, within the Thanetian succession, and the Paleocene/Eocene (P/E) boundary. It occurs at the top part of the maximum regression associated with major discontinuities and changes in depositional regimes as well as vertical facies changes. Broad correlation with eustatic records based upon integrated microplanktonic biostratigraphy suggests that the fluctuations of foraminiferal population were controlled by global sea-level changes.