palaeosoito

Palaeosoito is a proposed but not formally recognized geological epoch that would follow the Late Devonian period and precede the Early Carboniferous. The term "palaeosoito" has been used in some informal scientific discussions to delineate a specific interval of time within the Late Devonian, potentially bridging the Famennian stage with the Tournaisian stage. However, it does not currently hold official status within the Geologic Time Scale established by the International Commission on Stratigraphy.

The concept of a distinct palaeosoito epoch arises from a desire to refine the understanding of biotic and environmental changes occurring at the Devonian-Carboniferous boundary. This period witnessed significant evolutionary events, including the diversification of terrestrial vertebrates and the development of extensive coal-forming swamps. Researchers have explored whether a discrete chronostratigraphic unit is needed to capture these transitions more precisely.

Currently, the geologic time scale officially designates the Famennian as the final stage of the Devonian period and the Tournaisian as the first stage of the Carboniferous period. The boundary between these two stages is a well-defined marker, and the events occurring around it are studied within the existing framework. The potential palaeosoito epoch remains a topic of scientific discussion rather than an established part of geological history. Further research and consensus among the geological community would be necessary for any such proposed epoch to gain official recognition.