Possible position of the Variscan chains between the Balkan and Caucasus

The prolongation of the Variscan chains east of the Balkan to the Caucasus is discussed on the basis of the Carboniferous and Permian molasse sediments in Dobrodgea, Eregli (Zonguldag) and North Caucasus. Paleobiogeographic data based on Permian forminifers and algae and on Lower Carboniferous molluscs indicate that these basins were situated to the north of the Variscids. The arc of the Variscan chains extended to the east from Eregli across the Black Sea to the Crimean Peninsula.