Depth related brachiopod faunas from the lower Cambrian Forteau Formation of southern Labrador and western Newfoundland, Canada

A groundbreaking study identifies distinct brachiopod assemblages in the lower Cambrian Forteau Formation, revealing depth-related distributional patterns of these ancient marine organisms. The research distinguishes three assemblages: two shallow-water groups associated with archaeocyathans and one deeper-water assemblage from Gros Morne National Park. These assemblages define two biozones and provide the first analysis of environmental constraints shaping brachiopod distribution in eastern Laurentia's lower Cambrian succession. Notably, specific taxa like Botsfordia caelata thrive in shallow environments, while Eoobolus priscus and Eothele tubulus dominate deeper settings. The study also introduces a new brachiopod species, Kyrshabaktella diabola n., offering insights into palaeodepth indicators and expanding our understanding of Cambrian palaeoenvironments.

Skovsted, C., Knight, I., Balthasar, U., & Boyce, D. (2017). Depth related brachiopod faunas from the lower Cambrian Forteau Formation of southern Labrador and western Newfoundland, Canada. Palaeontologia Electronica. https://doi.org/10.26879/775