Contribution to the Triassic ostracode faunas of the Betic Zone (southern Spain)

Ostracodes are reported for the first time from epimetamorphic, strongly tectonized Triassic rock sequences from the internal part of the Betic Cordilleras. Three ostracode-zones have been established. The lower and middle zones are attributed to the Late Ladinian (Longobardian) and the upper zone to the Early Carnian (Cordevolian). Several new species and subspecies are described (Acratina muelleri, Judahella pulchra posterospinosa, Falloticythere mulderae, F. rondeeli, Lutkevichinella? egeleri, Mostlerella blumenthali blumenthali, M. b. minuta, Leviella sohni) and a new genus (Falloticythere). The microfaunas — and especially the ostracodes — appear to be very helpful for a precise dating of the Triassic sequences in the Betic Zone. This has allowed several new conclusions to be drawn concerning the stratigraphy, mode of deposition and the tectonics of the Triassic sequences.