Phra Wihan Formation Stratigraphic range: Early Cretaceous |
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Type | Geological formation |
Unit of | Korat Group |
Underlies | Sao Khua Formation |
Overlies | Phu Kradung Formation |
Thickness | ~150m |
Lithology | |
Primary | Sandstone |
Other | Shale |
Location | |
Region | Northeast Thailand (Khorat Basin) |
Country | Thailand |
Type section | |
Named for | Named after Khao Phra Wihan, an 11th-century Khmer Temple in the area, where this Formation is well exposed. (See, Khao Phra Wihan National Park) |
The Early Cretaceous Phra Wihan Formation is the second lowest member of the Mesozoic Korat Group which outcrops in Northeast Thailand.
Comprises fine- to coarse-grained sheet and channelled sandstone beds and rarer variegated siltstone and mudstone. Intermittent conglomerate beds.
Deposited in a fluvial environment dominated by high-energy, shallow braided rivers with subordinate lower energy meandering river systems and associated flood plains.
The Phra Wihan Formation is considered to be Berriasian-Barremian in age based on recent palynology evidence.
Sauropod (fossil) tracks have been recorded from this formation.