Lithostratigraphy and depositional setting of the Holm Dal Formation (Middle Cambrian), central North Greenland

Abstract

The Holm Dal Formation (late Middle Cambrian) is formally described and assigned to the Tavsens Iskappe Group of central North Greenland. The formation consists largely of fossiliferous argillaceous lime mudstones and dolomites, interbedded at intervals with peloidal packstones and grainstones, carbonate breccia beds and sandstones. Deposition occurred mainly from suspension, but periodically also from mud-rich density currents or storm currents and viscous mass flows in a low-energy, marine outer shelf environment. The Holm Dai Formation records progressive shallowing; it represents the initial stage of a major regressive cycle that culminated in exposure of the shelf.