Supposed pronounced ecophenotypy in foraminifera

Abstract. The use of the term ecophenotype in the literature on foraminifera is confused and misleading. The results of tank experiments, held to demonstrate that extensive morphological variation occurs, beyond what is normally regarded as specific, and is environmentally determined, can be otherwise explained. The suggestion that the Ammonia beccarii group should be reduced to three ‘forms’ and that even the type is an ecophenotype should therefore be treated with reserve.