With the help of many well-preserved structures and fossils, a paleoecological reconstruction of the Lower Pliocene strata (Sands of Kattendijk) is given. The most conspicuous feature in this fornation is a large, in general regularly filled channel with a W – E longitudinal axis. Elsewhere the fornation is usually thoroughly burrowed. The depth of the sea was at least 30-50 m. The environment was open narine. The climate was moderate.