Sinbad Formation | |
---|---|
Stratigraphic range: Early Triassic Epoch | |
Type | Formation |
Unit of | Thaynes Group |
Underlies | Torrey Member |
Overlies | Black Dragon Member |
Area | Canyonlands National Park |
Thickness | 10–103 feet |
Location | |
Region | Utah |
Country | United States |
Type section | |
Named by | James Gilluly and J.B. Reeside Jr. |
The Sinbad Formation is a geologic formation in Utah initially named and described by James Gilluly and J. B. Reeside Junior in the 1920s. It is known for preserving fossils dating back to the Early Triassic epoch.[1]
Originally described as the Sinbad Limestone Member, it was one of four members in the San Rafael Swell including also the Black Dragon Member, Torrey Member and Moody Canyon Member. The Sinbad Limestone Member was considered a portion of the greater Moenkopi Formation. It was recently elevated to formation rank, as the Sinbad Formation, and referred to the Thaynes Group.[2]
The Sinbad Formation is made up of beds of yellowish-gray limestone, dolomite, quartz sandstone, siltstone and, conglomerate rock.[3][4] These beds range in thickness from 10 ft (3.0 m) to 103 ft (31 m) and hold fossils of Meekoceras ammonoid fauna from the Olenekian stage (Smithian substage).[1] The area was once covered in shallow seawater that deposited sediments and marine life that would later comprise the sandstone formation. The formation has been researched and characterized by scientists since its initial discovery in 1928.[1][3][5][6] In addition to research performed on the formation's geology and fossil stores scientists have also prospected the area for oil and other valuable natural resources.[3][4][6] Although the formation appears to have characteristics of an oil reserve the Sinbad Formation has not undergone significant drilling.[3][4]
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