Palaeontology report Stromatolite Biostratigraphy and Palynology: Stromatolite biostratigraphy and palynology of drillhole NTGS BR05DD01 (Unapproachable 1:100 000 Sheet; Bloods Range 1:250 000 Sheet) Amadeus Basin, Northern Territory, Australia

Abstract

The upper part of drillhole NTGS BR05DD01 was examined and sampled. Several stromatolite specimens in carbonate intervals were examined and identified. They consisted mainly of Tungussia julia, a stromatolite previously identified from the Julie Formation and its lateral equivalents across Australia. This, together with well-log interpretation, indicates that the Julie Formation and part of the overlying Arumbera Sandstone, not identified in the original well log, are present in the drillhole. Forty-seven palynological samples were prepared using standard maceration techniques. Initial examination indicates that all samples are barren of identifiable palynomorphs. This result is unexpected in the light of successful recovery of rich assemblages from other Amadeus Basin drillholes through the same interval. Further investigations are underway to determine if the problem lies with the preparation techniques applied.