The middle stage in the Pliocene epoch, preceded by the Zanclean (Tabianian), followed by the Gelasian (Late Pliocene), and dated at 3.6–2.588 Ma ago (Int. Commission on Stratigraphy, 2004). The corresponding European stage was originally described as a subdivision of the (then recognized) Astian stage and is roughly contemporaneous with the upper Delmontian, Repettian, and Venturian (N. America), Waipipian, Mangapanian, and lowermost Nukumaruan (New Zealand), and upper Kalimnan and Yatalan (Australia). The type area is around Castell’ Arquato, Italy.