A multi-proxy study of the Kimmeridgian/ Volgian boundary beds in the Gorodischi section (Middle Volga area, Russia), the lectostratotype of the Volgian Stage

of the Upper Oxfordian. The overlying cherty limestones (unit C) yielded the Kimmeridgian ammonites found in their uppermost part; the deposits of the unit are rich in rests of planktonic crinoids Saccocoma. The younger ammonite assemblage coming from the lower part of the upper Ammonitico Rosso unit (unit D) is indicative of the Acanthicum Zone of the Upper Kimmeridgian. These deposits are characterized by Saccocoma-Globochaete microfacies, and yielded calcareous dinocysts indicative of the Moluccana Zone of the Kimmeridgian. The Kimmeridgian/Tithonian boundary runs in the middle of the discussed Ammonitico Rosso unit (unit D) as evidenced by occurrence of calcareous dinocyst Carpistomiosphaera tithonica. The upper part of the unit yielded calpionellids and calcareous dinocysts indicative of the Praetintinnopsella Zone located at the turn of the Middle and Upper Tithonian. The topmost part of the unit, as well as the lower part of overlying partly nodular micritic limestones (unit E/D) yielded already calpionellids and calcareous dinocysts indicative of the Crassicolaria Zone of the Upper Tithonian. The deposits are dominated by the Crassicolaria-Globochaete microfacies. The Jurassic/Cretacous boundary runs in the middle of the partly nodular micritic limestone unit (D/E). Here appears assemblage dominated by spherical forms of Calpionella alpina indicating the lowermost part of the Calpionella Zone of the Lower Berriasian. This zone ranges up at least to the upper part of massive micritic limestones (unit E) where the calpionellids of the Ferasini Subzone have been recognized. The microfacies of the Globochaete-Calpionella type, locally enriched in radiolarians prevail. The carbonates of the topmost part of the succession covering the basalt lava flows, as well as limestones alternating with pyroclastic layers yielded calpionellids of the Calpionellopsis Zone of the Upper Berriasian indicating both the Simplex Subzone, and the Oblonga Subzone. The breccias contain i.a. the clasts of the Upper Tithonian micritic limestones with calpionellids of the Crassicolaria Zone and of volcanic rocks. The carbonates correspond to the ̧ysa Limestone Fm., including the Walentowa Breccia Member of this formation (see Birkenmajer 1977).