DISTRIBUTION OF WESTPHALIAN MARINE FAUNAS IN NORTHERN ENGLAND AND ADJOINING AREAS

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Abstract
Summary: The main features of the Westphalian marine faunas in the coalfields of the Pennine Province are summarized by reference to the sequence proved in the East Midlands Coalfield, which is taken as a standard for the region. The faunal phases of the marine bands are described and the possible spatial relationship of the communities in the Westphalian seas is discussed in terms of facies belts. The geographical distribution of the communities in the marine bands is set out, and interpreted by palaeofacies maps. These demonstrate the lateral changes which occur in the faunas as the individual bands are traced from the area of maximum deposition in the mid and south Pennines to the surrounding marginal areas. The pattern of the faunal variation is seen to be in close agreement with the depositional history and palaeogeography of the Pennine basin. Brief reference is made to the position of the permanent Westphalian seas.