The Berrechid sub-basin of Morocco consists of Late Triassic–Early Jurassic evaporites and red beds that are part of the syn-rift Atlantic series. Although some of the Berrechid sub-basin has been extensively studied, the depositional environment of the Upper Salt-Mudstone Formation has long been debated, with some early studies proposing a marine origin. This study documents the sedimentological, mineralogical, and geochemical characteristics of core materials from two boreholes and mine outcrops covering the entire series of the Upper Salt-Mudstone Formation. Our analysis of the lithology, mineralogy, sedimentary structures, sedimentary textures, and geochemical data suggests deposition in a continental setting. In addition, detailed observations of sedimentary structures and textures indicate additional features of periods of flooding, evapoconcentration, and desiccation. The continental setting in a dry climate is also supported by the occurrence of Classopollis pollen. This study provides new insights of the paleoenvironmental conditions in the Berrechid sub-basin, and significantly advances our understanding of the paleoenvironment and climate of Pangea during the Late Triassic–Early Jurassic period.

You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.