Statistical analysis of apertural protective structures of the planktonic foraminifera at Abderaz Formation ( Turonian-Earliest Campanian), east of the Kopeh-Dagh basin, (NE Iran)

Apertural protective structures of the planktonic foraminifera in the Abderaz Formation have been studied in order to determine seal level changes in 4 stratigraphical sections including: Abderaz village, Muzduran pass, Padeha village and Shorb . Lithological study of the Abderaz Formation shown that Shorab section (east of the kopeh-Dagh basin) with 374 meters and Padeha village section with 602 meters represent minimum and maxiumum thickness, respectively. A total of 77 planktonic foraminifers species belonging to 19 genera, have been identified in studied sections. Eight Apertural protected plates have been recognized in the umbilical side of the distinguished planktonic foraminifera. Besides, 4 porticus structures (Simple lip, Tooth like-Porticus, Spiral Porticus, Imbricate Porticus) belonging to the morphotype 2 and 3, three Tegillum structures (Roll-type Tegillum, Strap-Shape Tegillum, Sheet like-Tegillum) belonging to the morphotype 3, and one Lip structure belonging to the morphotype 1, as well as their frequency have been recognized. Statistical analysis of protected structures of the umbilical area have been demonstrated that unlike to the imbricate porticus and sheet like Tegillum, the lip and simple lip structures show the highest frequency, indicating that the Abderaz Formation deposited in the relative shallow marine environment.