Late Ypresian (Cuisian) rotaliids (Foraminiferida) and their biostratigraphic potential

One of the least known groups of larger benthic foraminifers of the Late Ypresian (Cuisian) are a number of as yet undescribed rotaliids, which commonly occur in shallow-water deposits from the central Neo-Tethys. Despite their relative abundance and short distribution range, the biostratigraphic potential of these taxa is as yet unknown, mainly due to relevant taxonomic difficulties. The complexity of the test and the canal system in the Rotaliidae and the necessity to investigate specimens from thin sections are the most common obstacles to investigate in detail these taxa. In the light of these difficulties, systematic description at the high qualitative standard level normally achieved in larger foraminifera may seem a daunting or unfeasible task. From these considerations arises the necessity to recognize provisionally flexible operative criteria, in order to establish working hypotheses for employing these taxa. Because many of these taxa are distinctive, a primary goal is adequate illustration, especially in axial sections, useful for practical recognition purposes. Consequently, we present a selection of rotaliid taxa from the Maiella Mt. (Apulian domain, Central Italy) and central Sicily (clasts from the Monte Bosco Fm., Pre-Panormide domain) from Cuisian deposits, dated by means of alveolinids, with higly distinctive axial sections, in order to establish a baseline for future biostratigraphical use. The taxa are provisionally described and their generic attribution is discussed