[2] The formation is interpreted as resulting from deposition of rhythmically alternating lime and clay in a shallow marine environment.

These include the fusulinid Fusulinella euryteines and brachiopods, corals, and bryozoa.

Fragments of petrified wood are found at the base of the formation and are interpreted as remnants of tree trunks carried out to sea.

[1] The unit was designated the Berino Member of the Magdalena Group by L.A. Nelson in 1937.

[3] Kues and Giles recommended discarding the Magdalena Group and raising the unit to formation rank in 2004.