Clusters of sponge spicules from Quaternary sediments at Sites 685 and 688 off Peru

Abstract

Clusters of sponge spicules found in Quaternary deep-water sediments at Sites 685 and 688 off Peru represent single individuals of small sponges or fragments of large sponges. The spicule assemblages constituting these clusters probably represent a few demosponge species of the subclass Tetractinomorpha and order Astrophorida, because triaenes and microscleric euasters, as well as abundant monaxons, are present. As proved by incorporated Neogene diatoms, these spicule clusters are allochthonous. The sponge individuals probably inhabited deeper neritic environments during late Neogene time. -Authors