NEOCOMIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Neocomian is an adjective used in geology and paleontology to describe the early part of the Cretaceous Period, which lasted from approximately 145 to 100 million years ago. Derived from the Latin words "neo" meaning new and "comas" meaning hair, the term Neocomian was introduced in 1841 by the Swiss geologist Henri Alexandre de Choffat to refer to a specific stage of rock formations and fossil assemblages found in various parts of the world.
Neocomian deposits contain a diverse range of marine and terrestrial fossils, including ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and early mammals. These sediments were primarily formed in shallow marine environments, such as lagoons, coastal plains, and estuaries. In terms of stratigraphy, the Neocomian is considered part of the Lower Cretaceous Series, situated below the Aptian Stage and above the Berriasian Stage.
The Neocomian is characterized by the proliferation of new life forms and the evolution of various groups of organisms, such as early flowering plants, teleost fish, and more advanced reptiles. It marks an important transition period in Earth's history, where the dominant Mesozoic fauna experienced significant changes and gave rise to new lineages that would become major components of later ecosystems.
By studying Neocomian rock formations and associated fossils, scientists gain crucial insights into the Earth's climate, paleogeography, and the evolutionary dynamics of life during this time period. The term Neocomian is widely used within the field of stratigraphy and paleontology, allowing researchers to accurately classify and study the rocks and organisms from this geologically significant era.
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In geol., a term applied to the Greensand or Lower Cretaceous formation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NEOCOMIAN
Etymology of NEOCOMIAN
The word "Neocomian" originates from the combination of two Greek words: "neo" meaning "new" or "young", and "kôma" meaning "bed" or "stratum". In geology, the term "Neocomian" refers to a stage in the Lower Cretaceous period, which represents a relatively young period in Earth's history.
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