5.35 Ecacheries Formation - ECH

Authors: Bouckaert et al., 1961; Groessens et al., 1982; Paproth et al., 1983; Hennebert, 1999.

Description: Dark, thin-bedded, coarse- to fine-grained limestones, with marly interbeds. Chert is common in the upper part. A rich macrofauna of corals and brachiopods occurs locally. The formation overlies the Basècles Fm and is overlain by the Thieusie Fm.

Stratotype: Cutting along the towpath, on the right bank of the Blaton-Ath canal, at the "Ecacheries" (Blaton).

Area: Western HSA, at least from Péruwelz to Fleurus.

Thickness: About 74 m in the type area.

Age: Moliniacian. Cf4 Foraminifer Zone; Cf4dand RC5 Coral Zone (Siphonodendron ondulosum) in the upper part.