Taxonomy, stratigraphy, and paleoceanographic implications of Paleocene diatoms

Abstract

The taxonomy and stratigraphy of pelagic Paleocene diatoms from ODP Sites 698, 700, and 702 and DSDP Site 524 in the South Atlantic and DSDP Site 214 in the Indian Ocean are presented, as well as paleogeographic and paleoecologic implications. Eleven new species and one new variety are described and one new combination is proposed. Stratigraphic ranges of diatom species are calibrated against calcareous microfossil zones. Quantitative analysis of the biosiliceous microfossil groups shows that preservation of diatoms is confined primarily to the upper Paleocene. Diatom species analysis reflects changes in the paleoenvironment between island-related upwelling conditions and less productive periods. -from Author