#q01

           There are three Eocene formations visible at Wadi Al-Hitan: the Gehannam Formation, Birket Qarun Formation, and the Qasr El-Sagha Formation. During the Eocene Epoch, Wadi Al-Hitan was located in a shallow marine environment.For these formations to form, the Tethys Sea had to retreat and deposit layers of sediment. These layers of sediment led to the creation of sandstone, limestone, and shale in the area. White limestone and gypseous shale make up the oldest formation, Gehannam. The Birket Qarun Formation is composed of sandstone, clays, and hard limestone. The final and youngest formation was uplifted creating a drainage system. This drainage system led to the creation of estuaries and lagoons.