Bivalvos del Mioceno marino de Matanzas (Formación Navidad, Chile central)

Abstract

Seventeen species concerning to fossil bivalves mollusks from the environs of Matanzas town, coastal area of Central Chile, are described, figured and commented. Two of them, Amiantis (Amiantis) navidadensis and Chione (Chione) rodulfi are proposed as new species. This fauna is very well preserved and occurs in a highly fossiliferous stratigraphic level. The bearing rocks belong to the lower part of the Navidad Formation, previously known as the Navidad Member, which is preferently exposed in the coastal cliffs of the area. An early to middle Miocene age has been considered for this member. Ought to the exclusive occurrence of five of the described species in it, they are suggested as regional indicator fossils of this age; other four species need to be controlled in the upper units.