Fernando Formation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fernando FormationStratigraphic range: Plio-Pleistocene |
|
|---|---|
| Type | Geologic formation |
| Underlies | Pico Formation |
| Overlies | Repetto Formation |
| Lithology | |
| Primary | Mudstone, siltstone, sandstone |
| Location | |
| Region | Los Angeles Basin, Santa Monica Mountains Los Angeles County, California |
| Country | United States |
The Fernando Formation is a special layer of rock found in Southern California. It formed during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, which were millions of years ago. This rock layer is made up of different types of rock, like mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone.
You can find the Fernando Formation in places like the Los Angeles Basin, the Ventura Basin, and the Santa Monica Mountains. These areas are all located in Los Angeles County, California.
Contents
What is a Geological Formation?
A geological formation is like a specific chapter in Earth's history book. It's a distinct layer of rock that scientists can recognize. This layer has unique features, like the types of rocks it contains. It also formed during a specific time period.
Scientists study formations to understand Earth's past. They learn about ancient environments and the life that once lived there.
Where is the Fernando Formation Found?
The Fernando Formation is mainly found in Southern California. It stretches across a few important areas. These include the Los Angeles Basin and the Ventura Basin. It's also present in the Santa Monica Mountains.
These locations are all within Los Angeles County, California. The formation is a key part of the geology in this region.
Ancient Life and Fossils
The Fernando Formation holds clues about life from long ago. In some parts of the formation, especially in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, scientists have found fossils. These fossils include ancient shark teeth.
Finding shark teeth tells us that this area was once covered by the ocean. It was a home for sharks millions of years ago. These fossils help scientists learn about the animals that lived in California's ancient seas.
How Scientists Study Rock Layers
Scientists who study rocks are called geologists. They look at different rock layers to understand Earth's history. Sometimes, different rock layers can be very similar. This can make it tricky to tell them apart.
For example, some scientists think the Fernando Formation is very similar to other nearby rock layers. These include the Repetto Formation and the Pico Formation. They discuss if these layers should be considered the same or different. This is how science works, with ongoing research and discussions.
