Benthonic and planktonic foraminifera from the Luderitz Oranjemund inner shelf and their relationship to naturally occurring sea floor sediment types

Abstract

Abstract by author:

Grain size, sediment composition and abundance of organic debris are seen as responses to the intensity of wave energy impinging on the sea floor. Consequently, energetic areas of sea floor are marked by clean coarse sands and grits, are well oxygenated and are distinguished by diverse benthic foraminifera assemblages (Elphidium, Lobatula, Ammonia species) with limited planktonic (Neogloboquadrina, Globigerina, Globorotalia species)

Quiet sea floor areas are marked by organic-rich silty muds and clays, which are poorly oxygenated, and are distinguished by limited benthic foraminifera (Discammina) with common planktonics and diatoms. Each transect shows a different pattern of low and high-energy areas, serving to emphasise the considerable complexity of the sea bottom environment