Eco-taphonomy of mass-aggregated giant balanids Concavus (Concavus) concavus (DARWIN, 1854) from the Lower Pliocene (Zanclean) of Rafina near Pikermi (Attica, Greece)

摘要: The large- to giant-sized balanids, mass-aggregated in a tempestite of the Lower Pliocene (Zanclean) section at Rafina near Pikermi,Greece, represent single species, Concavus ( ) concavus (DARWIN, 1854) [non BRONN, 1831], taxonomy which is revised. peculiarly shaped forms ‘raphanoides’ and ‘scutorum’ are ecophenotypes of this species; same applies ‘tulipiformis’ specimens reported previously fromthis section.Discussed are dynamic events controlling life death conditions nearshore (offshore) environment Rafina, where giant flourished through several successive generations. As opportunistic species they adopted r-selection reproduction strategy order dominate over other biota. intermittent action high-energy agents was responsible for production balanid-shell hash that involved taphonomic feedback. This enabled further colonization biotope growth multiphased (bouquet-like pyramidal) clusters. demise monospecific balanid communities ascribed heavy storm stirred-up whole balanid-bearing sequence, produce proximal tempestite. final burial and subsequent depositional lull Rafina favoured by temporary deepening Lower Pliocene basin beyond bathymetric range population could survive.