24 Jul 2016
24 Jul 2016
Taphonomic impact of ultrasonic treatment on foraminifera from a deep-sea carbonate ooze
Rik Van Bael1, Arne Deprez1, Peter Stassen1, André Bornemann2, and Robert P. Speijer1
Rik Van Bael et al.
Rik Van Bael1, Arne Deprez1, Peter Stassen1, André Bornemann2, and Robert P. Speijer1
- 1Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200E, B3001 Heverlee, Belgium
- 2Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe, Stilleweg 2, 30655 Hannover, Germany
- 1Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200E, B3001 Heverlee, Belgium
- 2Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe, Stilleweg 2, 30655 Hannover, Germany
Correspondence: *Correspondence: vanbael.rik@gmail.com
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Received: 23 Dec 2015 – Accepted: 25 Jan 2016 – Published: 24 Jul 2016
The selection and identification of foraminifera in chalky, partially silicified sediments can be problematic, as was experienced with upper Danian (Paleocene) samples from Newfoundland Ridge (IODP Expedition 342 Site 1407). Ultrasound treatment can potentially improve the liberation and identification of foraminifera by removing fine-grained material from the tests, leading to reduced processing time. However, this process is potentially destructive and can alter the composition of foraminiferal assemblages by reducing fragile taxa from the record, similar to the effects of dissolution (Nguyen et al. 2011).