Abstract Seven borehole cores were analysed to reconstruct the Pleistocene evolution of the Pego-Oliva Basin (Mediterranean coast, Iberian Peninsula). A total of 295 samples were recovered for amino acid racemization (AAR) dating, and 77 samples for sedimentological, palaeontological and biomarker determination, with two objectives: (1) to establish a chronological framework (especially for Middle Pleistocene); and (2) to obtain data on the palaeoenvironment. AAR proved that the record covers approximately 650 ka in which no important hiatuses occurred, although minor ones cannot be discarded. AAR provided valuable information on differential subsidence rates, and Marine Isotope Stages (MISs) 15–1 were identified. Litho- and biofacies allowed the identification of distinct palaeoenvironments through time, with the constant presence of a marsh/lagoonal environment with brackish or saline water with continental or marine influence. Remains of marine molluscs allowed the determination of periods of highstand sea level. Biomarkers indicated a constant input from terrestrial plants, and allowed definitions of periods with variable water mass and environmental moisture. As in other Mediterranean littoral areas, facies with a marine influence occurred mainly during odd MISs, indicating periods of highstand sea level. In contrast, alluvial-fan progradation and continental brackish wetlands developed during even MISs.

Abstract This paper documents the complex three-dimensional geometry of the Messinian Unconformity in the Tarraco concession area on the Ebro Shelf, based on the Tortuga 3D seismic survey. A detailed map of the Messinian Unconformity Surface has been constructed in the survey area, and shows a dendritic drainage pattern with valleys that are around 1 km wide, and 6-7 km in length. The overall morphology of the surface is strongly reminiscent of badlands topography, from semi-arid zone erosion of sandstone-shale sequences. The depth of incision of the valleys into the pre-Messinian clastic sequences is around 400 m. The results obtained confirm previous models of sub-aerial exposure creating erosion of the pre-Messinian shelf and slope sequences that generated the spectacular Messinian Unconformity.