Linha São Luiz Geosite, Rio Grande do Sul State: 25 years of discoveries, and a unique window to the Brazilian Mesozoic

Abstract

The Linha São Luiz Geosite is one of the most remarkable outcrops from the central region ofRio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. With more than 20 meters of vertical exposure, the localitypreserves records of distinct sedimentary episodes, and one of the richest fossil assemblagesknown in southern Brazil. After a quarter of a century from the first expeditions to the site, theLinha São Luiz still yields new discoveries, registering exquisitely preserved fossils from micro andmacrovertebrates, invertebrates, and plants, as well as trace fossils generated by these groups.In this contribution, we assembled representatives from distinct fields of paleontological study toprovide a summary of the fossil assemblage from this site. We also briefly discuss the history ofresearch and report geoconservation strategies which are being implemented at the locality, in orderto preserve this important window to the Brazilian Mesozoic.