RAMPA - NEWS

Fieldwork Central Italy

PhD student Katja Mužek, supported by the SALTAGES COST Action within the framework of a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) and RAMPA project, had the opportunity to carry out fieldwork from 7 to 14 September 2025 in central Italy, with a particular focus on sites related to the Messinian Salinity Crisis.

Detailed sedimentological logs were produced at the Maccarone and Fonte dei Pulcini sections, where Lago-Mare and early Pliocene deposits were systematically sampled. Professor Elsa Gliozzi from University Roma Tre provided invaluable support by sharing relevant literature, geological maps, and GPS coordinates, greatly facilitating the planning and successful execution of the fieldwork.

This research contributes to a better understanding of faunal exchange, environmental adaptations, and climate-driven evolution during one of the most significant transitional phases in Earth’s history.

Beyond the scientific results, the STSM also fostered close collaboration, field training, and knowledge exchange between institutions, paving the way for future joint research and publications, as well as directly contributing to Katja’s doctoral research.