T59. Global Stratotype Section and Points (GSSPs) and Standard Auxiliary Boundary Stratotype (SABSs): state of art, current research, and future perspectives

Global Boundary Stratotype Sections and Points (GSSPs) and Standard Auxiliary Boundary Stratotypes (SABSs) are reference points for defining stage boundaries and reference sections for complementary expression of the boundary itself respectively. Several GSSPs have been defined and already ratified in the Mediterranean area and particularly in Italy, while others are being worked on. They are worthwhile examples of using multiple stratigraphic methodologies (astro-cyclostratigraphy, paleomagnetic stratigraphy, high-resolution integrated biostratigraphy, radiometric dating) for the construction of the International Chronostratigraphic Chart and represent geological sites of international interest. This session, organised by the Italian Commission on Stratigraphy, intends to update the state of knowledge on ongoing research on the Italian GSSPs and SABSs and evaluate new perspectives for enhancing the chronostratigraphic heritage from Tethyan Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. We invite contributions focused on: i) stratigraphic development on new potential Italian reference sections, ii) ongoing studies improving accuracy of already ratified boundaries, iii) valuable efforts for the protection and promotion of the geosites for both scientific use and valorization of the geoheritage.