The Aptian-Albian of the Costa Blanca (SE Spain): Implications for identifying the Aptian/Albian boundary in the neritic zone within the Tethys realm

The Aptian-Albian interval of the Costa Blanca (SE Spain) has been studied to provide new insights into the evolution of the neritic domain of carbonate platforms in the Tethys. Three areas have been re-examined: Serra Gelada, Puig Campana, and Cabeçó d'Or. The biozonations of large benthic foraminifers (LBF) have been revised based on ammonite biostratigraphy. Updated ammonite datings and stratigraphic revisions reveal that several LBF and calcareous algae (CA) taxa previously attributed to the late Aptian actually originated in the early Albian. These findings correct and refine the calibration of LBF and CA biozones and ranges with standard ammonite zones. Furthermore, the identification of a significant local hiatus during the middle Albian at Cabeçó d'Or is likely linked to halokinesis.