Proterozoic and Paleozoic Palynology of Antarctica: A Review

Abstract

This chapter provides a summary account of the occurrence and significance of spores, pollen grains, and other palynomorphs that have been recorded from pre-Mesozoic Antarctic sequences ranging in age from Proterozoic (possibly Riphean) to Permian. Occurrences of Paleozoic palynomorphs recycled into younger materials, especially seafloor glacial sediments of the antarctic continental shelf, are also reviewed. While drawing largely upon published work, this chapter includes some additional identifications and illustrations of Permian spores and pollen grains from the Bainmedart Coal Measures (Prince Charles Mountains) samples originally studied by Balme and Playford (1967). Principal antarctic localities mentioned in the text are shown.