HISTORY OF RESEARCH AND NEW PALEONTOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES NEAR THE GURA GALBENEI COMMUNITY

Andrian DELINSCHI,Univeristatea de Stat din Moldova,Elena DELINSCHI

Abstract

The paper presents the history of paleontological research and the results of recent investigations carried out within the built-up and surrounding areas of Gura Galbenei commune (Cimișlia District), a region known for fossil discoveries since the early 20th century. Classical data regarding the Râpa Coțofana site are summarized, and new findings from the fossiliferous localities Gura Galbenei II, III, and IV are described. Special attention is given to the newly discovered Gura Galbenei IV site, characterized by an argillaceous–sandy lithological succession with gravel lenses rich in small vertebrate remains. Taxonomic analysis reveals a diverse assemblage dominated by ochotonids, cricetids, and murids. Biostratigraphic evidence suggests that the Gura Galbenei IV fauna is of Meotian age (Middle Turolian, MN 12), providing important new data on Late Miocene biodiversity and paleoenvironmental conditions in southern Republic of Moldova. Keywords: Gura Galbenei, Cimișlia district, history of research, stratigraphy, biostratigraphy, paleontology, ta- phonomy, new site. DOI: https://doi.org/10.59295/sum1(191)2026_39