Distribution, factor analysis and ecology of benthic foraminifera within inner shelf regime of Vengurla-Bhatkal sector, West Coast, India

Abstract

One hundred and two taxa of benthic foraminifera are reported from the neritic environment (15-60 m) of Vengurla - Bhatkal area. Q-mode factor analysis reveals 6 important foraminiferal assemblages accounting for 92% of the information given in original data matrix. The assemblages are - @iNonion@@ - @iBulimina ammobaculites, Bolivina@@. @iBulimina@@ - @iNonionella@@ - @iA. nonionella@@ - @iBulimina@@ and @iAmmonia. Based on the ecology of the fauna it is concluded that a general hyposalinal environment prevails in the study area. Geographical distribution of well-known hyposalinal species/assemblages can be used to study the spread of brackish water along the coastal area