Abstract

Abstract:

The ambitopic brachiopod Eoplectodonta is common in many upper Llandovery assemblages from deep-water settings, but this small plectambonitoid is not a noted opportunist. At least one level within the Telychian Kilbride Formation of north Connemara, western Ireland, contains unusual shelly associations overwhelmingly dominated by Eoplectodonta penkillensis (Reed). An opportunist model is developed for this assemblage based on the availability of vacant soft substrates periodically created after intermittent storm activity on the deep shelf. In addition, rapid sediment accumulation during transgression may have been an important contributing factor in this high-stress environment.

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