View source for RECENT PUBLICATIONS ON FORAMINIFERA

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{{Recent Publications on Foraminifera Navigation}}<font size="2">

==MULTIDISCIPLINARY STUDY OF RARELY RECOVERED PARTS OF DEEP-SEA SANTONIAN-CAMPANIAN TRANSITION==

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The Cretaceous deep-sea record of the Santonian–Campanian transition is commonly interrupted by an extensive unconformity (representing <10 Myr of hiatus). The resultant palaeoceanographic gap can now be partly bridged by a recent short core of pelagic ooze from Shatsky Rise (Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Site U1348), with precise multidisciplinary age constraints developed herein. New oxygen isotope data from very well-preserved benthic foraminifera, together with accurately compiled comparable benthic data from previous Pacific deep-sea sections, exhibit a large (c. +1‰) early Campanian shift. We propose the Santonian–Campanian climatic transition was not gradual but was the first major cooling step after sustained mid-Cretaceous hothouse conditions.
<font size="2">([http://jgs.lyellcollection.org/content/170/3/381.abstract ABSTRACT])

----Ando, A., Woodard, S.C., Evans, H.F., Littler, K., Herrmann, S., Macleod, K.G., Kim, S., Khim, B.-K., Robinson, S.A. and Huber, B.T., 2013. [http://jgs.lyellcollection.org/content/170/3/381.abstract An emerging palaeoceanographic ‘missing link’: multidisciplinary study of rarely recovered parts of deep-sea Santonian–Campanian transition from Shatsky Rise]. Journal of the Geological Society 170 (5), 381-384.


==THE CRETACEOUS-TERTIARY BOUNDARY TRANSITION IN NE BRAZIL==

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At 7800 km from Yucatan the Cretaceous–Tertiary boundary (KTB) transition of the Poty Quarry, NE Brazil, is the most distant locality with published accounts of Chicxulub impact–tsunami deposits, impact spherules and Ir anomaly. New investigations based on sedimentology, biostratigraphy, mineralogy and geochemistry fail to confirm these reports. Latest Maastrichtian planktic foraminiferal zones CF1 below an erosive and bioturbated disconformity and early Danian zone P1a(1) above indicate a short hiatus, with the KTB clay (zone P0), the Ir anomaly and the characteristic negative δ<sup>13</sup>C excursion missing. The disconformity coincides with the globally recognized latest Maastrichtian sea-level fall. Above the disconformity, an upward-fining micro-conglomerate with abundant reworked Cretaceous foraminifera, sub-angular phosphate clasts, calcitic and phosphatic spheroids along with an early Danian zone P1a(1) assemblage is interpreted as a gravity-flow deposit. Common spheroids throughout the late Campanian–Maastrichtian appear to be chamber infillings of the benthic foraminifer ''Dentalina alternata''. Minor Ir anomalies in thin clay layers of zone Pla and no evidence of the Chicxulub impact reveal that the Poty Quarry section remains a very important example of the complex global environmental and sea-level changes observed in KT sequences from North America to Central America that are commonly misinterpreted as impact–tsunami events.
<font size="2">([http://jgs.lyellcollection.org/content/170/2/249.abstract ABSTRACT])

----Gertsch, B., Keller, G., Adatte, T. and Berner, Z., 2013. [http://jgs.lyellcollection.org/content/170/2/249.abstract The Cretaceous–Tertiary boundary (KTB) transition in NE Brazil]. Journal of the Geological Society 170 (5), 249-262.


==BIOSTRATIGRAPHY OF THE YOUNGEST SEDIMENTS OF THE TATRA MASSIF, CENTRAL WESTERN CARPATHIANS==

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The foraminiferal and radiolarian biostratigraphy of selected sections of the Zabijak Formation, the youngest sediments of the Tatra massif (Central Western Carpathians), have been studied. Benthic foraminifers, mainly agglutinated species, occur abundantly and continuously throughout the studied succession, while planktic foraminifers are generally sparse. Five planktic and two benthic foraminiferal zones have been recognized. The marly part of the Zabijak Formation comprises the ''Pseudothalmanninella ticinensis'' (Upper Albian) through the ''Rotalipora cushmani'' (Upper Cenomanian) planktic foraminiferal zones, and the ''Haplophragmoides nonioninoides'' and ''Bulbobaculites problematicus'' benthic foraminiferal zones. The radiolarians were recognized exclusively in the Lower Cenomanian part of the formation.
<font size="2">([http://agp.org.pl/table/abstracts/63-2.htm ABSTRACT])

----Bąk, K. and Bąk, M., 2013. [http://agp.org.pl/table/abstracts/63-2.htm Foraminiferal and radiolarian biostratigraphy of the youngest (Late Albian through Late Cenomanian) sediments of the Tatra massif, Central Western Carpathians]. Acta Geologica Polonica 63, 223–237.


==NEW SUPRAORDINAL CLASSIFICATION OF FORAMINIFERA: MOLECULES MEET MORPHOLOGY==

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The limitations of a traditional morphology-based classification of Foraminifera have been demonstrated by molecular phylogenetic studies for several years now. Despite the accumulation of molecular data, no alternative higher-level taxonomic system incorporating these data has been proposed yet. Here, we present a new supraordinal classification of Foraminifera based on an updated SSU rDNA phylogeny completed with the description of major morphological trends in the evolution of this group. According to the new system, multi-chambered orders are grouped in two new classes: [[Tubothalamea|Tubothalamea]] and [[Globothalamea|Globothalamea]]. Naked and single-chambered Foraminifera possessing agglutinated or organic-walled tests are arranged into a paraphyletic assemblage of “[[monothalamids|Monothalamids]]”. The new system maintains some multi-chambered calcareous orders, such as Rotaliida, Miliolida, Robertinida and Spirillinida, although their definitions have been modified in some cases to include agglutinated taxa. The representatives of the planktonic order Globigerinida are tentatively included in the order Rotaliida. The agglutinated Textulariida are probably paraphyletic. The position of the order Lagenida is uncertain because reliable molecular data are only available for one species. The new classification system separates orders or families, which differ in basic chamber shapes, prevailing mode of coiling and distance between successive apertures. It appears that these features correspond better to the main evolutionary trends in Foraminifera than wall composition and structure, both used in traditional classification.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000327 ABSTRACT])

----Pawlowski, J., Holzmann, M. and Tyszka, J., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000327 New supraordinal classification of Foraminifera: Molecules meet morphology]. Marine Micropaleontology 100, 1-10.


==A STABLE AND HOT TURONIAN WITHOUT GLACIAL ∂<sup>18</sup>O EXCURSIONS==

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A shift from the icehouse climate in which humans evolved to a Late Cretaceous–like greenhouse climate is an often-repeated cautionary prediction of the consequences of continued anthropogenic CO<sub>2</sub> emissions. The corollary, that understanding the past might help predict the future, has justified many Late Cretaceous studies, but important questions remain about climate stability and sensitivity. New δ<sup>18</sup>O measurements of more than 1000 samples of exceptionally well preserved foraminifera (8 planktic and 11 benthic taxa) from two sites in Tanzania indicate that hot and remarkably stable conditions prevailed in the region during the Turonian, including during a proposed greenhouse glacial event. Planktic taxa have δ<sup>18</sup>O values largely between –4.0‰ and –5.0‰, suggesting surface-water temperatures between 30 and 35 °C. Estimates for seafloor temperatures are between 18 and 25 °C. No parallel shifts in δ<sup>18</sup>O values are observed among planktic and benthic taxa, contradicting an often-cited line of evidence for greenhouse glaciations and supporting an effectively ice-free Turonian world.
<font size="2">([http://geology.gsapubs.org/content/41/10/1083.abstract ABSTRACT])

----MacLeod, K.G., Huber, B.T., Berrocoso, Á.J. and Wendler, I., 2013. [http://geology.gsapubs.org/content/41/10/1083.abstract A stable and hot Turonian without glacial δ<sup>18</sup>O excursions is indicated by exquisitely preserved Tanzanian foraminifera]. Geology 41(10), 1083-1086. 


==TESTING THE USE OF FORAMINIFERA TO RECONSTRUCT EARTHQUAKES==

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Coastal stratigraphy from the Pacific Northwest of the United States contains evidence of sudden subsidence during ruptures of the Cascadia subduction zone. Transfer functions (empirical relationships between assemblages and elevation) can convert microfossil data into coastal subsidence estimates. Coseismic deformation models use the subsidence values to constrain earthquake magnitudes. To test the response of foraminifera, the accuracy of the transfer function method, and the presence of a pre-seismic signal, we simulated a great earthquake near Coos Bay, Oregon, by transplanting a bed of modern high salt-marsh sediment into the tidal flat, an elevation change that mimics a coseismic subsidence of 0.64 m. The transplanted bed was quickly buried by mud; after 12 mo and 5 yr, we sampled it for foraminifera. Reconstruction of the simulated coseismic subsidence using our transfer function was 0.61 m, nearly identical to the actual elevation change. Our transplant experiment, and additional analyses spanning the A.D. 1700 earthquake contact at the nearby Coquille River 15 km to the south, show that sediment mixing may explain assemblage changes previously interpreted as evidence of pre-seismic land-level change in Cascadia and elsewhere.
<font size="2">([http://geology.gsapubs.org/content/41/10/1067.abstract ABSTRACT])

----Engelhart, S.E., Horton, B.P., Nelson, A.R., Hawkes, A.D., Witter, R.C., Wang, K. and Vane, C.H., 2013. [http://geology.gsapubs.org/content/41/10/1067.abstract Testing the use of microfossils to reconstruct great earthquakes at Cascadia]. Geology 41(10), 1067-1070. 


==DIVERSIFICATION PATTERNS OF PLANKTIC FORAMINIFERA IN THE FOSSIL RECORD==

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Theories of taxonomic diversification dispute whether global diversity has an upper limit set by the strength of biological interactions or grows in unlimited fashion until catastrophic events reset the system. We analyzed a global compendium of fossil planktic foraminifera from the early Cretaceous to the present after correcting for temporal differences in sampling effort. Our results show that their morphological diversity has increased exponentially through time in two different phases. The first phase collapsed at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary transition. The second phase developed through the Cenozoic era and declined during the Pliocene-Pleistocene interval, a period of time that was dominated by enhanced climatic and oceanographic instability. In none of these phases diversity reached an equilibrium level. Cenozoic faunas evolved faster than those inhabiting Cretaceous oceans, perhaps as a result of a higher environmental variability. Our results indicate that planktic foraminifera conform to an exponential diversification model. However, because catastrophic events have repeatedly reset the level of biological diversity and have kept it below the maximum, we cannot confirm whether the level of diversity is potentially unlimited.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813001059 ABSTRACT])

----Cermeño, P., Castro-Bugallo, A., Callina, S.M., in press. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813001059 Diversification patterns of planktic foraminifera in the fossil record]. Marine Micropaleontology, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marmicro.2013.09.003


==ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESES TO EXPLAIN THE EXTINCTION DURING THE MID-PLEISTOCENE CLIMATE TRANSITION==

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Over 100 cosmopolitan species of deep-sea benthic foraminifera (Extinction Group, Ext. Gp) became extinct during the late Pliocene-middle Pleistocene (3.6-0.55 Ma). Most had elongate, cylindrical tests and terminal apertures with complex modifications. This study provides new hypotheses on the functions of the morphologies that characterised the Ext. Gp and how these features could have been associated with their demise. From our functional morphological analysis we infer that: i) their elongate cylindrical or flabelliform tests, combined with fine perforations and a complex terminal apertural face are indicative of infaunal k-strategists with a low rate of metabolism; ii) their complex apertural faces may also have been an adaptation for gathering or processing their specific phytodetrital food. ......  <br/>
'''Highlights'''
• Functional interpretation of the morphology of deep-sea foraminifera that became extinct during the MPT (Ext. Gp) suggests they had low rates of metabolism.
• Lowered ''p''CO<sub>2</sub> during increasingly severe glacials of the mid-Pleistocene Climate Transition resulted in the decline and loss of many reticulofenestrid nannofossils and increased seasonality of phytoplankton blooms.
• Ext. Gp species may have been out-competed by opportunistic benthic foraminifera that took advantage of the increased seasonality of phytodetrital flux to the deep-sea floor.
• Lowered ''p''CO<sub>2</sub>  could have caused the loss of the particular phytoplankton group that was the detrital food of the Ext. Gp.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813001060# ABSTRACT])

----Mancin, N., Hayward, B.W., Trattenero, I., Cobianchi, M., Lupi, C., in press. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813001060# Can the morphology of deep-sea benthic foraminifera reveal what caused their extinction during the mid-Pleistocene Climate Transition?]. Marine Micropaleontology, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marmicro.2013.09.004


==AGGLUTINATED FORAMINIFERA ACROSS THE INDIAN MARGIN OMZ (ARABIAN SEA)==

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We present a semi-quantitative survey of ‘live’ (stained) and dead hormosinacean foraminifera at six sites (500–2,000 m water depth; bottom-water oxygen concentrations 0.007–2.43 ml L<sup>−1</sup>) across the Indian margin oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Abundance of stained and dead specimens was highest at 800 m followed by 1,100 m, lowest at 2,000 m (stained) and 500 m (dead). The peak at 800 m possibly represents a release from oxygen stress combined with a rich food supply (‘edge effect’). We recognised 31 species (27 ''Reophax'', 2 ''Hormosinella'', 1 ''Hormosina'' and 1 ''Nodosinella'') among the 605 stained and dead specimens; the majority (21) are apparently undescribed.  Species richness was low at 2,000 m; within the OMZ, it was maximal at 1,100 m and minimal at 500 m for both stained and dead populations. Three species (''R. agglutinatus'', ''R''. aff. ''bilocularis'' and ''R. dentaliniformis'') occurred across the entire depth range. However, most species were either confined to the 2,000-m site or to one or more sites within the OMZ. Multivariate analysis of assemblage composition revealed that the 2,000-m site was distinct from shallower sites. Within the OMZ, the 900- and 1,100-m sites were the most similar, and the 500-m site the most distinct. Stained:dead test ratios were maximal at 500–835 m, perhaps reflecting enhanced preservation of cytoplasm at very low oxygen concentrations. At least two Reophax species are common to the Indian and Pakistan margin OMZ; one of these may be confined to the core of the Arabian Sea OMZ.
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12526-013-0178-z ABSTRACT])

----Taylor, A., Gooday, A.J., in press. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12526-013-0178-z Agglutinated foraminifera (superfamily Hormosinacea) across the Indian margin oxygen minimum zone (Arabian Sea)]. Marine Biodiversity, doi:10.1007/s12526-013-0178-z 


==TRACING SEAFLOOR METHANE EMISSIONS IN THE BAIYUN SAG OF THE NORTHERN SOUTH CHINA SEA==

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Changes in the concentrations of atmospheric greenhouse gases are an important part of the global climate forcing. The hypothesis that benthic foraminifera are useful proxies of local methane emission from the seafloor has been verified on sediment cores by numerous studies. The calcium carbonate (CaCO<sub>3</sub>) content and the high-resolution carbon and oxygen isotope composition of the benthic foraminifera from the core 08CF7, from the northeastern Shenhu gas hydrate drilling area in the Baiyun Sag of the northern South China Sea were analyzed, and the benthic foraminifera’s evidence for methane release from gas hydrate decomposition are presented here for the first time. ......
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12665-012-2201-2 ABSTRACT])

----Wang, S., Yan, B. and Yan, W., 2013. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12665-012-2201-2 Tracing seafloor methane emissions with benthic foraminifera in the Baiyun Sag of the northern South China Sea]. Environmental Earth Sciences 70(3), 1143-1150.  


==FORAMINIFERAL RESPONSE TO TRACE ELEMENT POLLUTION, THE GULF OF MILAZZO, NE SICILY==

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The response of benthic foraminiferal assemblages to trace element pollution in the marine sediments of the Gulf of Milazzo (north-eastern Sicily) was investigated. Since the 1960s, this coastal area has been a preferred site for the development of two small marinas and a commercial harbour as well as for heavy industry. Forty samples collected in the uppermost 3–4 cm of an undisturbed layer of sediment in the littoral environment were used for this benthic foraminiferal analysis. The enrichment factors (EFs) of selected trace elements (As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were also calculated. Changes both in benthic foraminiferal assemblages and in some trace elements concentrations have provided evidence that the gulf’s littoral zone can be subdivided into three sectors characterised by environmental changes in the marine ecosystem. ......
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10661-013-3292-2 ABSTRACT])

----Cosentino, C., Pepe, F., Scopelliti, G., Calabrò, M., Caruso, A., 2013. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10661-013-3292-2 Benthic foraminiferal response to trace element pollution—the case study of the Gulf of Milazzo, NE Sicily (Central Mediterranean Sea)]. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment 185 (10), 8777-8802.


==ABSENCE OF DIEL VERTICAL MIGRATION DURING THE MIDNIGHT SUN IN THE GRAM STRAIT==

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The timing of vertical migration in planktonic foraminifera (ex. ontogenetic, diel) is still an open debate. This work aims to investigate the diel vertical migration (DVM) of ''Neogloboquadrina pachyderma'' (''N. pachyderma'') and ''Turborotalita quinqueloba'' (''T. quinqueloba'') in the Arctic during the midnight sun. ''N. pachyderma'' and ''T. quinqueloba'' dominate the total assemblage in the cold Polar Water and warmer North Atlantic Water masses, respectively. Foraminifera were collected at several depths along the Fram Strait. Afterwards sampling was performed at the same station for 24 h at continuous and discrete time intervals. Results show no evidence of planktonic foraminifera DVM since there was no significant variability in the abundance and size distribution during the 24-h collection period. This finding provides information to improve the interpretation of foraminifera in paleoclimatic works. This is especially relevant in the Fram Strait as paleoclimatic studies in this region are fundamental to investigating the history of the Atlantic water inflow into the Arctic Ocean.
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-013-1669-4 ABSTRACT])

----Manno, C. and Pavlov, A.K., in press. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-013-1669-4 Living planktonic foraminifera in the Fram Strait (Arctic): absence of diel vertical migration during the midnight sun]. Hydrobiologia, doi:10.1007/s10750-013-1669-4


==THE PLIENSBACHIAN-TOARCIAN EXTINCTION, A GLOBAL MULTI-PHASED EVENT==

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...... We compare stratigraphic ranges of ammonite and foraminiferal species in Pliensbachian–Toarcian successions of western North America to the record in Europe and parts of the Arctic in order to test the geographic extent of the multiple phases of extinction. Our results show six intervals of species level decline that correlate with those recognized in Europe. ...... Recognition of this multi-phased event in three separate ocean basins (paleo Pacific, paleo Arctic, and Tethys Oceans), in at least two taxonomic groups, greatly expands the known geographic extent of this multi-phased event and argues for a controlling mechanism that is global in its reach. In relation to the Volcanic Greenhouse Scenario, our study shows that four of the six pulses of extinction occur within the main-phase of Karoo magmatism. The decline in the Early Pliensbachian, previously thought to be separate from this event, occurs within error range of the onset of Karoo magmatism and the decline in the Late Toarcian coincides with the later stages of magmatism. These observations extend the known duration of this multi-phased extinction event to the Early Pliensbachian and support the Volcanic Greenhouse Scenario, specifically the eruption of the Karoo–Ferrar LIP, as a preeminent factor driving the multi-phased extinction of the Pliensbachian–Toarcian. 
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031018213002344 ABSTRACT])

----Caruthers, A.H., Smith, P.L. and Gröcke, D.R., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031018213002344 The Pliensbachian–Toarcian (Early Jurassic) extinction, a global multi-phased event]. Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 386, 104-118.


==THE MORPHOGROUPS OF FORAMINIFERA FROM THE DEVONIAN CARBONATE COMPLEX OF THE PRAGUE SYNFORM, CZECH REPUBLIC==

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Agglutinated foraminifera from the Lower and lower part of the Middle Devonian, predominantly limestones of the Prague Synform (Barrandian area), were classified into five morphogroups ...... The absence of the deep infaunal morphogroups is characteristic. The morphogroup distribution has been strongly affected by oxygen concentration, the energy of the environment, nutrient availability and post-mortem processes. Intervals with diversified and abundant foraminiferal assemblages can be correlated with positive δ<sup>13</sup>C excursions and also with the deposition of nodular limestones. The Devonian assemblages from the Prague Synform were compared with isochronous assemblages from other regions. Though the taxonomical composition of the Early Devonian assemblages from these areas are rather different, the morphogroup composition is highly comparable, and globally indicates similar life and feeding strategies of the Early Devonian foraminifera.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031018213002551 ABSTRACT])

----Holcová, K. and Slavík, L., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031018213002551 The morphogroups of small agglutinated foraminifera from the Devonian carbonate complex of the Prague Synform, (Barrandian area, Czech Republic)]. Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology 386, 210-224.


==BIOFACIES IN THE UPPER MIOCENE-LOWER PLIOCENE IN THE MANZANILLA BAY, NORTHEAST TRINIDAT==

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The Miocene–Pliocene Manzanilla Formation of northern Trinidad marks the arrival of the east-west flowing Orinoco River. Foraminifera were examined quantitatively in samples obtained at ∼5 m intervals from the lowest member of the formation, the San José Calcareous Silt Member, where exposed at eastern Manzanilla Bay and Point Noir. Recovery of ''Globorotalia merotumida'' indicates an age within the ''Globorotalia acostaensis'' Zone through Globorotalia margaritae evoluta Subzone, (N16–N19). Values of the information function (H) and the percentage of the total assemblage as planktonic foraminifera (%P), both traditionally used as palaeodepth indicators, were uncorrelated.  ...... <br/>
'''Highlights'''

• The San José Calcareous Silt Member was deposited under considerable freshwater influence.
• The abundance of ''Pseudononion atlanticum'' and ''Hanzawaia carstensi'' indicate shallow neritic palaeodepths.
• The water was occasionally clear enough for ''Amphistegina gibbosa''.
• ''Haplophragmoides wilberti'' indicate at least one intertidal interlude.
• The abundance of planktonic foraminifera and benthonic foraminiferal diversity are uncorrelated.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0895981113000813 ABSTRACT])

----Wilson, B., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0895981113000813 Foraminiferal biofacies in the San José Calcareous Silt Member (Manzanilla Formation, Upper Miocene to Lower Pliocene) in the Manzanilla Bay area, north-east Trinidad, and their environmental significance]. Journal of South American Earth Sciences 46, 80-88.


==EVALUATION OF ∂<sup>13</sup> STRATIGRAPHY AND BIOSTRATIGRAPHIC IMPLICATIONS FOR LATE CRETACEOUS GLOBAL CORRELATION==

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...... To better assess the global versus local contribution in a δ<sup>13</sup>C record it is necessary to compare numerous isotopic records on a global scale. As a contribution to this objective, this paper reviews bulk sediment δ13Ccarb records from the Late Cretaceous in order to identify differences and similarities in secular δ<sup>13</sup>C trends that help establish a global reference δ<sup>13</sup>C record for this period. The study presents a global-scale comparison of twenty δ<sup>13</sup>C records from sections representing various palaeo-latitudes in both hemispheres and different oceanic settings from the Boreal, Tethys, Western Interior, Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, and with various diagenetic overprinting. The isotopic patterns are correlated based on independent dating with biostratigraphic and paleomagnetic data and reveal good agreement of the major isotope events despite offsets in absolute δ<sup>13</sup>C values and variation in amplitude between the sites. ...... The combination of chemostratigraphy with biostratigraphy and magnetostratigraphy substantially increases the precision and temporal resolution of inter-regional correlations and helps overcome problems that arise from differences in biostratigraphic schemes, facies or provincialism of key fossils. By using an iterative approach to stepwise increase precision of the correlations, isochroneity of first and last occurrences of marker species versus chemostratigraphy is tested, which helps to improve biostratigraphic zonations, to assess zonal boundary ages and to identify useful criteria for defining Late Cretaceous stage boundaries, many of which are still not formally defined. The presented correlations indicate a consistent position for most planktic foraminifer zonal boundaries relative to corresponding isotope shifts during the mid-Cretaceous sea-level high, whereas diachroneity appears to be more pronounced during the Late Campanian and Maastrichtian global sea-level fall. A similar pattern is observed for trans-continental consistency in the δ<sup>13</sup>C shifts. Graphic correlation of isotopic shifts, magnetostratigraphic and biostratigraphic events among the compared sections is used to detect hiatuses or relative changes sediment accumulation rates and visualizes consistency or offsets of individual biostratigraphic markers relative to chemo- and magnetostratigraphy. Finally, an attempt of a global average δ<sup>13</sup>C stack is presented for the Turonian through Maastrichtian.

<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0012825213001293# ABSTRACT])

----Wendler, I., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0012825213001293# A critical evaluation of carbon isotope stratigraphy and biostratigraphic implications for Late Cretaceous global correlation]. Earth-Sciences Review 126, 116-146.


==ASSESSMENT OF SEAWATER Nd ISOTOPE SIGNATURES AND AUTHIGENIC PHASES OF GULF OF GUINEA SEDIMENTS==

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The radiogenic neodymium (Nd) isotope composition of foraminiferal shells provides a powerful archive to investigate past changes in sources and mixing of water masses. However, seawater Nd isotope ratios extracted from foraminiferal shells can be biased by contaminant phases such as organic matter, silicates, or ferromanganese coatings, the removal of which requires rigorous multiple step cleaning of the samples. Here we investigate the efficiency of Flow Through and batch cleaning methods to extract seawater Nd isotope compositions from planktonic foraminifera in a shelf setting in the Gulf of Guinea that is strongly influenced by riverine sediment inputs. Nd isotope analyses of reductively and oxidatively cleaned mono-specific planktonic foraminiferal samples and reductively cleaned mixed benthic foraminifera were complemented by analyses of non-reductively cleaned mono-specific planktonic foraminiferal samples, Fe–Mn coatings of de-carbonated bulk sediment leachates, and the residual detrital fraction of the same sediment. ......
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016703713004092 ABSTRACT])

----Kraft, S., Frank, M., Hathorne, Ed.C. and Weldeab, S., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016703713004092 Assessment of seawater Nd isotope signatures extracted from foraminiferal shells and authigenic phases of Gulf of Guinea sediments]. Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta 121, 414-435.


==PALAEOCLIMATIC FLUCTUATIONS IN THE NEW CALEDONIAN BASIN, OVER THE LAST 140,000 YERS==

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The New Caledonia Basin (NCB), SW Pacific, a deep bathyal to abyssal basin bordered by the Lord Howe Rise to the west and the Norfolk Ridge to the east, has received little scrutiny with regards to the taxonomic diversity of benthic organisms in its Quaternary to Recent deep sea sediments. In 2001, gravity core GC4 was extracted from the NCB and the uppermost 141 cm, representing approximately the last 140 000 years, was investigated for chemical isotopic, carbonate, non-carbonate and trace element signatures.  ...... <BR/>
'''Highlights'''
•Foraminifera were investigated from New Caledonia Basin core dating back ~ 140 kyr.
•161 species were identified, 46 found in abundances reflecting biodiversity trends.
•2 distinct foraminiferal assemblages were identified using Bray-Curtis analyses.
•Assemblage composition change was related to broad oceanic/climate fluctuations.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000972 ABSTRACT])

----Mamo, B.L., Brock, G.A., Gretton, E.J., in press. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000972 Deep sea benthic foraminifera as proxies for palaeoclimatic fluctuations in the new caledonia basin, over the last 140 000 years]. Marine Micropaleontology, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marmicro.2013.08.002.


==SYNCHROTON RADIATION X-RAY TOMOGRAPHIC MICROSCOPY OF PLANKTONIC FORAMINIFERS==

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Making the link between evolutionary processes and development in extinct organisms is usually hampered by the lack of preservation of ontogenetic stages in the fossil record. Planktic foraminifers, which grow by adding chambers, are an ideal target organism for such studies as their test incorporates all prior developmental stages. Previously, studies of development in these organisms were limited by the small size of their early chambers. Here, we describe the application of synchrotron radiation X-ray tomographic microscopy (SRXTM) to document the ontogenetic history of the foraminifers ''Globigerinoides sacculifer'' and ''Globorotalia menardii''. Our SRXTM scans permit resolution at submicrometre scale, thereby displaying additional internal structures such as pores, dissolution patterns and complexity of the wall growth. Our methods provide a powerful tool to pick apart the developmental history of these microfossils and subsequently assist in inferring phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary processes.
<font size="2">([http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pala.12013/abstract ABSTRACT])

----Schmidt, D.N., Rayfiedl, E.J., Cocking, A., Marone, F., 2013. [http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/pala.12013/abstract Linking evolution and development: Synchrotron Radiation X-ray tomographic microscopy of planktic foraminifers]. Palaeontology 56(4), 741-749.


==CENOMANIAN ROTALIIDS FROM OMAN AND MOROCCO==

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The small rotaliids (Foraminiferida) found in Cenomanian rock thin sections of Oman and Morocco are diversified. A continuum of morphotypes is divided within 3 taxa described as subspecies of Rotorbinella mesogeensis Tronchetti 1981 from which they share many morphological characteristics. ...... ''Pararotalia boixae'' sp. nov. comprises specimens previously attributed to ''P. tuberculifera'' Reuss 1862 pro parte. This Cenomanian new species (with Campanian affinis forms) is characterized by morphological features that clearly distinct it from the type of Reuss. We found it in the Cenomanian of Oman, but not in contemporaneous Moroccan sediments.
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13358-013-0054-2 ABSTRACT])

----Piuz, A., Meister, C., in press. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13358-013-0054-2 Cenomanian rotaliids (Foraminiferida) from Oman and Morocco
]. Swiss Journal of Palaeontology, doi:10.1007/s13358-013-0054-2


==MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY OF ELPHIDIIDAE==

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The Elphidiidae represent one of the most abundant and diversified foraminiferal family in shallow water habitats worldwide. Playing crucial roles in diverse ecosystems, they occur since the Eocene to present and are widely used for paleoenvironmental reconstructions. However, the lack of a clear taxonomic consensus led to a vast confusion concerning the relation of Elphidiidae with other rotaliids, in particular Nonionidae (''Haynesina'') and Rotaliidae (''Ammonia''). Moreover, high morphological plasticity of the test prevented the establishment of a clear definition for many species and genera of this family. Here, 66 new sequences of the SSU rRNA gene were obtained and used to build an extensive dataset including 94 complete or partial sequences of the SSU rDNA of 17 different morphospecies of ''Elphidiidae'', ''Haynesina'' and ''Ammonia''.  ...... <BR/>
'''Highlights'''
•Phylogenetic analysis of 17 morphospecies of Elphidiidae and their close relatives.
•Six highly supported clades are identified.
•Molecular taxonomy (SSU rDNA) shows many discrepancies with current taxonomic system.
•This study challenges species, genus and family level classifications.
•Answers to important questions regarding classification of elphidiids are proposed.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000753 ABSTRACT])

----Pillet, L., Voltski, I., Korsun, S., Pawlowski, J., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000753 Molecular phylogeny of Elphidiidae (foraminifera)]. Marine Micropaleontology 103, 1-14.


==SANTONIAN-CAMPANIAN PLANKTONIC FORAMINIFERA SPECIES DEPTH ECOLOGY AND PALEOCEANOGRAPHIC INFERENCES==

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The Santonian–Campanian interval is of particular interest as it encompasses a cooling trend after the Late Cretaceous greenhouse maximum warmth of the Turonian as well as a possibly related major faunal turnover among planktonic foraminifera. The recovery of pristinely preserved planktonic foraminifera from Santonian–Campanian sequences in southeastern Tanzania allows examination of faunal changes and documentation of species-specific stable isotope (δ<sup>13</sup>C and δ<sup>18</sup>O) signatures. These isotopic data are ideal for inferring species paleoecological preferences and for tracing major paleoceanographic changes. This study reports the first δ<sup>18</sup>O and δ<sup>13</sup>C data generated on “glassy” specimens of ''Marginotruncana coronata'', ''M. undulata'', ''M. marginata'', and ''M. pseudolinneiana'' and ''Sigalia carpatica''. Additional results from Shatsky Rise (Ocean Drilling Program Leg 198, Hole 1210B) and Exmouth Plateau (ODP Leg 122, Hole 762C) provide geographic control on species habitat preferences and paleoceanographic context. ......
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000777# ABSTRACT])

----Falzoni, F., Petrizzo, M.R., MacLeod, K.G., Huber, B., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000777# Santonian–Campanian planktonic foraminifera from Tanzania, Shatsky Rise and Exmouth Plateau: Species depth ecology and paleoceanographic inferences]. Marine Micropaleontology 103, 15-29.


==DO FORAMINIFERA MIRROR DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS OF MACROBENTHIC FAUNA IN AN ARCTIC FJORD?==

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This paper compares the distribution and diversity patterns of benthic foraminifera (all taxa and only calcareous forms) and macrozoobenthos in an Arctic glacial fjord. The samples were collected at 22 stations located in Hornsund (west Spitsbergen). The activity of tidal glaciers located in the inner basins causes steep environmental gradients of turbidity, organic matter supply, and sediment stability. Clear differences in density, diversity and species composition were documented for both foraminifera and macrofauna between the groups of stations located in three zones along a gradient of increasing tidal glacier impact. ...... Our study provides evidence that the patterns of calcareous foraminifera density, diversity and species composition in a glacial fjord can be effective, reliable indicators of variability of these characteristics in other benthic compartments.<br/>
'''Highlights'''
•We compared responses of Foraminifera and macrofauna to glacial impacts.
•Patterns of species distribution in two groups in a glacial fjord were correlated.
•Species richness and density of both groups declined towards glaciers.
•Foraminifera can be a useful indicator of other benthic groups variability.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000765 ABSTRACT])

----Włodarska-Kowalczuk, M., Pawłowska, J., Zajączkowski, M., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000765 Do foraminifera mirror diversity and distribution patterns of macrobenthic fauna in an Arctic glacial fjord?]. Marine Micropaleontology 103, 30-39.


==HYPERSALINE BENTHIC FORAMINIFERA FROM EASTERN RED SEA: THEIR USEFULNESS IN SEA-LEVEL RECONSTRUCTION==

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The Shuaiba Lagoon is a fossil back-reef, hypersaline small basin located 80 km south of Jeddah city on the eastern Red Sea coast, Saudi Arabia. The surface sediments of the lagoon were investigated for their benthic foraminiferal content in order to correlate, in general, with environmental factors such as temperature, salinity, pH, sediment grain size, organic matter and, in particular, with tidal elevations to develop a training set for predicting sea-level changes in the lagoon. Hierarchical cluster analysis divided the benthic foraminifera in the Shuaiba Lagoon into four distinct faunal assemblages. ...... <br/>
'''Highlights'''
•Foraminiferal assemblages and their factors in the Shuaiba Lagoon were investigated.
•Each of these assemblages occupied a distinct elevational zone in the lagoon.
•Intertidal-high subtidal assemblages could predict the sea level change with ± 0.16 m.
•Low subtidal-deep water assemblages were deleterious on the TF giving a wide error.
•The pH controlled the distribution abundances of the symbiont-bearing assemblages.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000790 ABSTRACT])

----Abu-Zied, R.H., Bantan, R.A., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000790 Hypersaline benthic foraminifera from the Shuaiba Lagoon, eastern Red Sea, Saudi Arabia: Their environmental controls and usefulness in sea-level reconstruction]. Marine Micropaleontology 103, 51-67.


==MOLECULAR AND ISOTOPIC COMPOSITION OF FORAMINIFERAL ORGANIC LININGS==

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Fossil remnants of benthic foraminifera consist of carbonate tests and their organic linings. The macromolecular and stable isotopic composition of these benthic foraminiferal organic linings was characterized to evaluate their potential use as paleoclimate proxies. Using Curie point pyrolysis–GC–MS (Py–GC–MS) we show that benthic foraminiferal organic linings consist of protein and polysaccharides, bound together in a complex macromolecular structure.  ...... <BR/>
'''Highlights'''
•The organic linings of benthic foraminifera consist of complex mixture of polysaccharide and protein based macromolecules.
•The stable carbon isotopic composition of foraminiferal linings reflects the foraminiferal food source.
•The oxygen isotopic composition of the linings potentially allows reconstructing seawater oxygen isotopes.
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000741# ABSTRACT])

----Ní Fhlaithearta, S., Ernst, S.R., Nierop, K.G.J., de Lange, G.J., Reichart, G.-J., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0377839813000741# Molecular and isotopic composition of foraminiferal organic linings 103, 69-78.


==DISTRIBUTION OF BENTHIC FORAMINIFERS OF THE BASQUE SHELF==

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We describe the spatial distribution of recent benthic foraminifer assemblages from the western area of the Basque shelf in relation with some environmental parameters. A total of 138 species have been identified, being the most abundant Cassidulina laevigata, Gaudryina rudis, Lobatula lobatula, Rosalina globularis and Textularia sagittula. Multivariate analyses (cluster Q-type and Detrended and Canonical Correspondence Analysis) performed with the benthic foraminifers of these samples show the separation of two main groups of species related with the sediment grain size: (1) coarse to very coarse sand and (2) medium sand and sandy silt. Seven clusters are characterised by their typical foraminifer assemblage and average values of particular parameters: clay-silt content of the sediment, depth, and percentage of foraminifer species indicative of hypoxia. The main features of marine currents of the area are reflected by these foraminifer assemblages. ......
<font size="2">([http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278434313002458 ABSTRACT])

----Martínez-García, B., Pascual, A., Rodríguez-Lázato, J., Bodego, A., 2013. [http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278434313002458 Recent benthic foraminifera of the Basque continental shelf (Bay of Biscay, northern Spain: Oceanographic implication)]. Continental Shelf Research 66(1), 105-122. 


==BIOSTRATIGRAPHY OF THE UPPER ALBIAN-UPPER CENOMANIAN OF THE TATRA MASSIF, CARPATHIANS==

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The foraminiferal and radiolarian biostratigraphy of selected sections of the Zabijak Formation, the youngest sediments of the Tatra massif (Central Western Carpathians), have been studied. Benthic foraminifers, mainly agglutinated species, occur abundantly and continuously throughout the studied succession, while planktic foraminifers are generally sparse. Five planktic and two benthic foraminiferal zones have been recognized. The marly part of the Zabijak Formation comprises the ''Pseudothalmanninella ticinensis'' (Upper Albian) through the ''Rotalipora cushmani'' (Upper Cenomanian) planktic foraminiferal zones, and the ''Haplophragmoides nonioninoides'' and ''Bulbobaculites problematicus'' benthic foraminiferal zones. The radiolarians were recognized exclusively in the Lower Cenomanian part of the formation.
<font size="2">([http://www.degruyter.com/view/j/agp.2013.63.issue-2/agp-2013-0009/agp-2013-0009.xml ABSTRACT])

----Bąk, K., Bąk, M., 2013. [http://www.degruyter.com/view/j/agp.2013.63.issue-2/agp-2013-0009/agp-2013-0009.xml Foraminiferal and radiolarian biostratigraphy of the youngest (Late Albian through Late Cenomanian) sediments of the Tatra massif, Central Western Carpathians]. Acta Geologica Polonica 63(2), 223-238f.


==ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF METHODOLOGIES ON RECENT BENTHIC FORAMINIFERAL ASSEMBLAGE COMPOSITION==

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The aim of the present study was to compare preservation, staining and preparation techniques to assess the influence of different sample treatments and analyses on the accuracy of benthic foraminiferal assemblage data from NE Atlantic shelf seas. Replicate surface samples from the SE North Sea were preserved with ethanol–rose Bengal or formalin, some were stained after processing, or foraminifera were concentrated by flotation. ...... Population density varied between different preservation, picking modes and investigators. The accuracy of picking was in the range of ±2 % (1σ), while external reproducibility ranged from −34 to +16 %. There was no significant difference between wet and dry picking. Samples that were concentrated by flotation generally yielded a lower number of specimens. Agglutinated species were under-represented in samples that were stained after washing and in the flotation concentrate. Size fractions showed a reduction of population density and Fisher alpha diversity index with increasing mesh size. Only half of the specimens and less than two-thirds of the species are captured if the >125 µm rather than >63 µm fraction is analysed. 
<font size="2">([http://jm.lyellcollection.org/content/32/2/161.abstract ABSTRACT])

----Schönfeld, J., Golikova, E., Korsun, S. and Spezzaferri, S., 2013. [http://jm.lyellcollection.org/content/32/2/161.abstract The Helgoland Experiment – assessing the influence of methodologies on Recent benthic foraminiferal assemblage composition]. Journal of Micropalaeontology 32, 161-182. 


==ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES DURING THE PETM IN SPITSBERGEN==

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The study deals with environmental changes during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) and its background conditions in Spitsbergen through analysis of benthic foraminiferal assemblages (FA) in a section drilled in the Paleogene Central Basin. The impact of this extreme global warming occurs here in prodelta shelf mudstones composing the lower part of the Gilsonryggen Member (Frysjaodden Formation). The start of the PETM perturbation is marked by a faunal turnover, in which the medium-diversity circumpolar ''Reticulophragmium'' assemblage was replaced by a low-diversity ''Trochammina'' fauna. During the hyperthermal period, benthic foraminiferal diversity decreased severely, while the dominance of small-sized taxa with epifaunal morphology strongly increased. This low-diversity fauna occurs in sediments with a reduced thorium/uranium ratio (proxy for oxygenation) and kaolinite enrichment (proxy for high humidity). The faunal changes were thus caused by the combined effects of hypoxic and hyposaline conditions in a stratified water column, due to extreme warming with its accompanying intensified hydrologic cycle. ......
<font size="2">([http://www.polarresearch.net/index.php/polar/article/view/19737 ABSTRACT])

----Nagy, J., Jargvoll, D., dypvik, H., Hochmann, M., Riber, L., 2013. [http://www.polarresearch.net/index.php/polar/article/view/19737 Environmental changes during the Paleocene—Eocene Thermal Maximum in Spitsbergen as reflected by benthic foraminifera]. Polar Research 32, 19737, http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/polar.v32i0.19737. 


==THE ROLE OF FORAMINIFERA IN THE BENTHIC NITROGEN CYCLE OF THE PERUVIAN OMZ==

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The discovery that foraminifera are able to use nitrate instead of oxygen as an electron acceptor for respiration has challenged our understanding of nitrogen cycling in the ocean. It was thought before that only prokaryotes and some fungi are able to denitrify. Rate estimates of foraminiferal denitrification have been very sparse and limited to specific regions in the oceans, not comparing stations along a transect of a certain region. Here, we present estimates of benthic foraminiferal denitrification rates from six stations at intermediate water depths in and below the Peruvian oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Foraminiferal denitrification rates were calculated from abundance and assemblage composition of the total living fauna in both surface and subsurface sediments, as well as from individual species specific denitrification rates. ......
<font size="2">([http://www.biogeosciences.net/10/4767/2013/bg-10-4767-2013.html ABSTRACT])

----Glock, N., Schönfeld, J., Eisenhauer, A., Hensen, C., Mallon, J., Sommer, S., 2013. [http://www.biogeosciences.net/10/4767/2013/bg-10-4767-2013.html The role of benthic foraminifera in the benthic nitrogen cycle of the Peruvian oxygen minimum zone]. Biogeosciences 10, 4767-4783.


==A GIANT FORAMINIFER THAT CONVERGES TO THE FEEDING STRATEGY OF CARNIVOROUS SPONGES==

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The foraminifer ''Spiculosiphon oceana'' sp. nov. is a giant (>4 cm) agglutinated astrorhizid, which makes the second known species of this unusual genus and its first Mediterranean record. It has a peculiar stalked, capitate, monothalamous test. Bleach digestion and X-ray microanalysis indicated the test to be made exclusively of siliceous sponge spicules agglutinated in organic cement. The organism stands on a hollow, 4 cm long, 0.5 cm thick stalk built with highly selected, long and thin spicule fragments, tightly cemented together in parallel to the main axis of the stalk. ...... ''Spiculosiphon'' species collect and arrange sponge spicules with high selectivity to recreate a body morphology that strongly converges to that of some carnivorous sponges, which allows these predatory foraminifera to exploit a prey capturing strategy similar to that of the carnivorous sponges. This idea is also consistent with our report of an additional, yet undetermined, ''Spiculosiphon'' species occurring in the same sublittoral Mediterranean cave where carnivorous sponges were first discovered.
<font size="2">([http://www.polarresearch.net/index.php/polar/article/view/19737 ABSTRACT])

----Maldonado, M., López-Acosta, M., Sitja, C., Aguilar, R., García, S., Vavelet, J., 2013. [http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2013/f/z03669p584f.pdf A giant foraminifer that converges to the feeding strategy of carnivorous sponges: ''Spiculosiphon oceana'' sp. nov. (Foraminifera, Astrorhizida)]. Zootaxa 3669(4), 571-584. 


==FORAMINIFERAL INFLUENCES ON MICROFABRICS OF MICROBIALITES==

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...... Considerable knowledge exists about prokaryotic composition of microbialite mats (i.e., stromatolitic and thrombolitic mats), but little is known about their eukaryotic communities, especially regarding heterotrophic taxa. Thus, the heterotrophic eukaryotic communities of Highborne stromatolites and thrombolites were studied. Here, we show that diverse foraminiferal communities inhabit microbialite mat surfaces and subsurfaces; thecate foraminifera are relatively abundant in all microbialite types, especially thrombolitic mats; foraminifera stabilize grains in mats; and thecate reticulopod activities can impact stromatolitic mat lamination. Accordingly, and in light of foraminiferal impacts on modern microbialites, our results indicate that the microbialite fossil record may reflect the impact of the radiation of these protists.

<font size="2">([http://www.pnas.org/content/110/24/9830.short ABSTRACT])

----Bernhard, J.M., Edgcomb, V.P., Visscher, P.T., McIntyre-Wressnig, A., Summons, R.E., Bouxsein, M.L., Louis, L., Jeglinski, M., 2013. [http://www.pnas.org/content/110/24/9830.short Insights into foraminiferal influences on microfabrics of microbialites at Highborne Cay, Bahamas]. PNAS, 110(24), 9830-9834.


==THE FORAMINIFERA FROM THE BAZARUTO ARCHIPELAGO (MOZAMBIQUE)==

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Late Moscovian-Early Sakmarian fusulinid faunas of the Anatolian Platform were examined in three stratigraphic sections (Ozbek Tepe, Eskibey and Bademli) from the Eastern and Central Taurides. Eight fusulinid zones were identified and include 1.) the ''Fusulinella'' (''Fusulinella'') ''colaniae''-''Fusiella praetypica'' concurrent range zone, 2.) the ''Fusulinella'' (''Fusulinella'') ''bocki bocki'' concurrent range zone, 3.) the ''Protriticites ovatus''-''Quasifusulinoides'' aff. ''quasifusulinoides'' concurrent range zone, 4.) the ''Protriticites pseudomontiparus''-''Obsoletes'' cf. ''obsoletes'' concurrent range zone, 5.) the ''Montiparus paramontiparus'' range zone, 6.) the ''Triticites oezbekensis''-''Rauserites subobsoletus'' concurrent range zone, 7.) the ''Daixina'' (''B''.) ex gr. ''bosbytauensis''-''Daixina'' (''D''.) ex gr. ''robusta'' range zone and 8.) the ''Zellia nunosei''-''Pseudofusulinoides instabilis''-''Pseudofusulinoides convexus'' assemblage zone.
<font size="2">([http://www.schweizerbart.de/papers/njgpa/detail/268/79915/Fusulinid_zonation_of_the_Late_Moscovian_Early_Sak ABSTRACT])

----Okuyucu, C., 2013. [http://www.schweizerbart.de/papers/njgpa/detail/268/79915/Fusulinid_zonation_of_the_Late_Moscovian_Early_Sak Fusulinid zonation of the Late Moscovian-Early Sakmarian sequences from the Taurides, southern Turkey]. Neues Jahrbuch für Geologie und Paläontologie - Abhandlungen 268(3), 237-258. 


==TAXONOMY, PHYLOGENY, AND FUNCTIONAL MORPHOLOGY OF GENUS Involutina==

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Early Jurassic aragonitic foraminifers are outstandingly well-preserved in the Marmorea crust, a multiphased ferromanganese layer limiting the Schnöll and Adnet formations (Adnet, Northern Calcareous Alps, Austria). This remarkable preservation, related to the pervasive impregnation of aragonitic tests prior to their recrystallization, allowed observing unknown diagnostic features of the genus ''Involutina'', which typifies the Suborder Involutinina. Thanks to a detailed examination of the Adnet specimens, this paper clarifies the taxonomy, systematic position, and phylogeny of ''Involutina''.  ......
<font size="2">([http://www.app.pan.pl/article/item/app20120056.html ABSTRACT])

----Rigaud, S., Blau, J., Martini, R., Rettori, R., in press. [http://www.app.pan.pl/article/item/app20120056.html Taxonomy, phylogeny, and functional morphology of the foraminiferal genus ''Involutina'']. Acta Palaeontologica Polonica, doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4202/app.2012.0056. 


==MIDDLE MIOCENE WARM-TEMPERATE CARBONATES OF CENTRAL PARATETHYS (MT. ZRINSKA GORA, CROATIA): PALEOENVIRONMENTAL RECONSTRUCTION==

Carbonate deposits from Zrin in the Mt. Zrinska Gora were deposited in the SW part of the Central Paratethys Sea during the Middle Badenian (Middle Miocene). The studied section contains a rich fossil community of non-geniculate coralline red algae (Subfamily Melobesioideae), bryozoans, benthic and planktonic foraminifera, echinoderms, ostracods, molluscs, and calcareous nannoplankton. Based on lithological variations and changes in the biogenic components, four facies associations (FA) are distinguished. Their distribution points to skeletal production and sedimentation on a middle to proximal outer carbonate ramp. The main lithological feature of the section is an alternation of two lithofacies: fully lithified grainstone–rudstone and packstone, and semi-lithified rudstone–floatstone with a carbonate sandy matrix. ......
<font size="2">([http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10347-012-0327-z ABSTRACT])

----Martinuš, M., Fio, K., Pikelj, K., Aščić, Š., 2013. [http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10347-012-0327-z Middle Miocene warm-temperate carbonates of Central Paratethys (Mt. Zrinska Gora, Croatia): paleoenvironmental reconstruction based on bryozoans, coralline red algae, foraminifera, and calcareous nannoplankton]. Facies, 59(3), 481-504. 


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