The formation consists of calcareous black shales containing gypsum and ammonites and dates to the Early Cretaceous period; Early Albian epoch and has an approximate thickness at its type section of 550 metres (1,800 ft).

[3] The Capotes Formation has a thickness at its type section of approximately 550 metres (1,800 ft), and is characterised by a sequence of organic rich calcareous shales with gypsum.

Fossils of Douvilleiceras solitae, Neodeshayesites columbianus and Paracrioceras sp.

[5] The formation has been deposited in a quiet enclosed shallow marine environment.

[6] The Capotes Formation is apart from its type locality along the road between Bituima and Guayabal,[2] also found north and southeast of Viotá,[7] and north and east of La Mesa.