JM - recent articles

Diversity and systematics of calcified cyanobacteria and associated microfossils in Cambrian Series 2 shallow-marine carbonates, Yangtze Platform, South China

2026-07-20T09:13:29+02:00

Diversity and systematics of calcified cyanobacteria and associated microfossils in Cambrian Series 2 shallow-marine carbonates, Yangtze Platform, South China
Jinwen Shen, Jiawei Zheng, Lijing Liu, Rui Wang, and Robert Riding
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 513–546, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-513-2026, 2026
This study presents a paleobiological investigation and systematic taxonomy of early Cambrian calcified cyanobacteria in 10 shallow marine carbonate sections – both reefal and non-reefal – from South China. Our findings provide robust support for the view that cyanobacterial calcification was widespread in shallow marine environments and associated facies during the early Cambrian, defining a major cyanobacterial calcification episode (CCE).

Benthic foraminiferal assemblages as proxies for paleoenvironmental indicators in the Indo-Pacific (Indonesia)

2026-06-30T09:13:29+02:00

Benthic foraminiferal assemblages as proxies for paleoenvironmental indicators in the Indo-Pacific (Indonesia)
Ria Fitriany, Khoiril Anwar Maryunani, Purna Sulastya Putra, Septriono Hari Nugroho, and Sri Ardhyastuti
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 487–512, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-487-2026, 2026
This study analyzed foraminifera in Indo-Pacific (Indonesia) seafloor sediments from transitional to deep-ocean environments. Our findings reveal a fundamental ecological pattern: environmental controls shift systematically from physical forces in shallow waters to chemical factors in deep waters. This validates ecological theory in tropical settings for the first time, enabling scientists to accurately determine ancient water depths from fossil assemblages preserved in Indonesian seas.

Coccolithophore signatures across the termination of the late Miocene to early Pliocene biogenic bloom in the Atlantic and Indian oceans

2026-06-16T09:13:29+02:00

Coccolithophore signatures across the termination of the late Miocene to early Pliocene biogenic bloom in the Atlantic and Indian oceans
Boris-Theofanis Karatsolis, Joseph D. Asanbe, and Jorijntje Henderiks
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 475–486, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-475-2026, 2026
Marine sediments help us investigate the end of a long period of high ocean productivity that occurred 9 to 3 million years ago. By comparing fossil assemblages of calcifying algae from the Indian and South Atlantic oceans, we found that the dominant, fast-growing species and their ecological prominence determined how and when this period ended in each region, showing that phytoplankton species’ dynamics control large changes in paleoproductivity and carbonate deposition across ocean basins.

Cuticular microfragments from the lower Cambrian Yanjiahe Formation, China: insights into ecdysozoan biodiversity at the dawn of animal radiation

2026-06-05T09:13:29+02:00

Cuticular microfragments from the lower Cambrian Yanjiahe Formation, China: insights into ecdysozoan biodiversity at the dawn of animal radiation
Lei Zhang, Fan Zhai, Ying Wu, Shan Chang, Yan Ye, Xianguo Lang, Yanchun Pang, Liang Hu, Qinglai Feng, Marie-Béatrice Forel, Taniel Danelian, Yuanyuan Yong, and Jean Vannier
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 455–474, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-455-2026, 2026
New 535-million-year-old fossils from China reveal early animal diversity. Preserved in fine detail, these fossils showcase Ecdysozoa – ancestors of insects and crabs. Twelve forms with spines, plates, and possible limbs were identified, showing rapid body plan evolution after life's first complexity boom. Analysis of fossilized skins reveal complex ecosystems emerging at this time. The findings provide clues about how Earth's most successful animal groups began their evolutionary journey.

Ontogenetic growth of three cultured species of Heterocypris Claus, 1892 (Crustacea: Ostracoda): eggs and valve morphology

2026-06-03T09:13:29+02:00

Ontogenetic growth of three cultured species of Heterocypris Claus, 1892 (Crustacea: Ostracoda): eggs and valve morphology
Mauricio Bonilla-Flores, Liseth Pérez, Peter Frenzel, Paula Echeverría-Galindo, Junbo Wang, and Antje Schwalb
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 429–453, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-429-2026, 2026
We grew three species of freshwater ostracods in the laboratory to document their development from eggs to adults. By comparing each stage of growth, we found significant differences in body shape, egg size, and growth patterns that help distinguish closely related species. Since their shells are often preserved in lake and pond sediments, our results provide useful reference data for studies of modern aquatic ecosystems and past environmental changes.

First report of modern planktonic foraminifera in the southeastern Arabian Gulf, with observations on the morphology and ecology of Neogallitellia vivans (Cushman)

2026-06-03T09:13:29+02:00

First report of modern planktonic foraminifera in the southeastern Arabian Gulf, with observations on the morphology and ecology of Neogallitellia vivans (Cushman)
Sinatrya D. Prayudi, Thomas Steuber, and Michael A. Kaminski
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 415–427, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-415-2026, 2026
Building on historical research, we report the discovery of planktonic foraminifera in sediments offshore Abu Dhabi. Surprisingly, the samples are dominated by Neogallitellia vivans, a rare species typically found in the Indo-Pacific. Our detailed analysis of its shell structure suggests that this tiny organism is uniquely adapted to the extreme salinity of the southern Arabian Gulf. This finding highlights the ability of marine life to thrive in harsh, hypersaline environments.

Artificial intelligence applied to the automated detection and identification of Devonian miospores

2026-05-19T09:13:29+02:00

Artificial intelligence applied to the automated detection and identification of Devonian miospores
Vitalina Lokteva, Vahram Serobyan, Martin Tetard, Pierre Breuer, and Taniel Danelian
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 405–413, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-405-2026, 2026
This study develops a semi-automated workflow using artificial intelligence to detect and classify Devonian miospores in microscopic slides. Focusing on three biostratigraphically important species used for dating rocks and correlating distant localities, the method achieved high accuracy, reduced observer bias, and accelerated analysis. This workflow offers a scalable tool for research and potential industrial applications in fossil-based stratigraphy.

Testing the applicability of automated size and shape analyses in non-marine ostracods – a case study from the Tibetan Plateau

2026-05-18T09:13:29+02:00

Testing the applicability of automated size and shape analyses in non-marine ostracods – a case study from the Tibetan Plateau
Marlene Hoehle, Torsten Haberzettl, Peter Frenzel, Antje Schwalb, Junbo Wang, Liping Zhu, and Claudia Wrozyna
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 359–375, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-359-2026, 2026
Evolutionary developmental biology aims to uncover mechanisms behind how species change over time, with shape analysis being a key tool. To address slow, manual data collection, we tested AutoMorph, a high-throughput imaging pipeline, on two ostracod species from six Tibetan Plateau lakes. The pipeline successfully extracted size and shape data automatically, reducing processing time and minimizing bias, enabling large-scale datasets for investigating evolutionary and ecological processes.

Latest Guadalupian to Lopingian conodonts from western Hubei–eastern Chongqing, South China

2026-05-18T09:13:29+02:00

Latest Guadalupian to Lopingian conodonts from western Hubei–eastern Chongqing, South China
Bingyang Zhou, Kui Wu, Teng Song, Lulu Xu, Ke Duan, Jinling Yuan, Liangzhe Yang, Bi Zhao, Jiangli Li, Di Wang, and Boyong Yang
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 377–403, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-377-2026, 2026
This study examines tiny fossils preserved in rocks from western Hubei and eastern Chongqing in South China to determine the age and continuity of Late Permian strata. By comparing fossil occurrences from several measured rock sections, we show that key rock layers were deposited continuously over time. Our results clarify when organic-rich rocks formed, helping to better understand regional geological history and providing useful time constraints for evaluating energy resource potential.

Palynofacies and lacustrine sequence stratigraphy: a case example from the Jurassic Cañadón Asfalto Formation, Cañadón Asfalto Basin, Extra-Andean Patagonia, Argentina

2026-05-13T09:13:29+02:00

Palynofacies and lacustrine sequence stratigraphy: a case example from the Jurassic Cañadón Asfalto Formation, Cañadón Asfalto Basin, Extra-Andean Patagonia, Argentina
Daniela Elizabeth Olivera, Carlos Zavala, Mirta Elena Quattrocchio, María Eugenia Soreda, Roberto Scasso, and Renchao Yang
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 335–357, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-335-2026, 2026
This study explores how climate-driven changes in water balance affected an ancient lake during the Jurassic in Patagonia, and influenced how plant and algal material were deposited and preserved. By combining field observations with palynological analysis, we identified shifts between wetter and drier periods. These shifts controlled lake size, water conditions, and the type and amount of organic matter preserved, improving our understanding of how ancient lake systems record environmental change.

Can the distribution of foraminifera locate the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO) and Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO) events in the Eocene succession of the Isle of Wight (UK)?

2026-05-06T09:13:29+02:00

Can the distribution of foraminifera locate the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO) and Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO) events in the Eocene succession of the Isle of Wight (UK)?
Malcolm B. Hart, Mark E. A. Alex-Sanders, and Christopher W. Smart
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 315–334, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-315-2026, 2026
The paper describes the foraminifera of the Eocene in the area of the Hampshire Basin and the English Channel. Hyperthermal events (Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO)) Late Lutetian Thermal Event (LLTE), and Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (MECO)) are discussed and set in the context of global climate change in the Paleogene.

Comment on “Chronostratigraphic ranges of Early–Middle Miocene larger benthic foraminifera calibrated by planktonic foraminiferal assemblages (Sierra de Marmolance, Granada, SE Spain)” by Bolivar-Feriche et al. (2025)

2026-04-27T09:13:29+02:00

Comment on “Chronostratigraphic ranges of Early–Middle Miocene larger benthic foraminifera calibrated by planktonic foraminiferal assemblages (Sierra de Marmolance, Granada, SE Spain)” by Bolivar-Feriche et al. (2025)
Cesare A. Papazzoni, Andrea Benedetti, Antonino Briguglio, Lorenzo Consorti, and György Less
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 309–313, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-309-2026, 2026
Oligocene fossils were retrieved from a Miocene deposit. Authors stated that their age should expand into the Miocene accordingly. Miocene age was not directly retrieved from the studied deposits but from a nearby outcrop not clearly connected to the studied succession. We argue that transportation events might have simply reworked Oligocene fossils into the Miocene material, as commonly occurs in ramp environments.

Planktic foraminiferal distribution across the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) boundary from the Neuquén Basin (Cerro Azul section): biostratigraphy and paleoenvironmental significance

2026-04-15T09:13:29+02:00

Planktic foraminiferal distribution across the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) boundary from the Neuquén Basin (Cerro Azul section): biostratigraphy and paleoenvironmental significance
Guilherme Krahl, Andrea Concheyro, Marlone H. H. Bom, Rodrigo M. Guerra, Karlos G. D. Kochhann, Thorsten Bauersachs, Lorenz Schwark, Daiane Ceolin, Telma Musso, and Gerson Fauth
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 297–308, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-297-2026, 2026
The Maastrichtian–Danian record at Cerro Azul (Argentina) shows shifts in planktic foraminiferal assemblages and sea surface temperatures (SSTs) (TEXH86) tied to the K–Pg (Cretaceous–Paleogene) extinction. Guembelitriid dominance and high-latitude affinity define the early Danian, with Antarcticella pauciloculata present. At 45 cm above the boundary, tropical species appear with a ~1.5 °C SST rise, signalling initial post-extinction climatic recovery.

Dinoflagellate cysts as indicators of primary productivity along a Baltic Sea–North Sea–Atlantic transect

2026-04-14T09:13:29+02:00

Dinoflagellate cysts as indicators of primary productivity along a Baltic Sea–North Sea–Atlantic transect
Cecile S. Hilgen, Rick Hennekam, Marcel T. J. van der Meer, Timme H. Donders, Gert-Jan Reichart, and Francesca Sangiorgi
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 275–295, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-275-2026, 2026
The Northwest European Shelf plays a key role in the global carbon cycle. To assess its past role, we want to reconstruct primary productivity using microfossils. By comparing surface sediment assemblages with sediment properties and modern environmental conditions, we found a good microfossil-based indicator for primary productivity. This indicator will be useful to reconstruct productivity in the past Northwest European Shelf.

New material of Schizopholis (family Botsfordiidae) from the Tsinghsutung Formation (Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4) in Songtao County, Guizhou Province, South China

2026-04-13T09:13:29+02:00

New material of Schizopholis (family Botsfordiidae) from the Tsinghsutung Formation (Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4) in Songtao County, Guizhou Province, South China
Buqing Wei, Xinglian Yang, Dezhi Wang, Weiyi Wu, and Yongqin Mao
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 259–273, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-259-2026, 2026
Well-preserved fossils of Schizopholis were found in the Tsinghsutung Formation of Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4 in Songtao County, Guizhou Province by etching limestones with 3–5% acetic acid. This is the first systematic description of S. yorkensis from South China, and we extend its palaeobiogeographical distribution. Palaeobiogeographical analysis indicates that Schizopholis was predominantly distributed in low-latitude regions and reached its highest abundance/diversity level during the Cambrian Age 4.

Marine palynology of the Alano di Piave Bartonian–Priabonian Global Stratotype Section and Point, NE Italy

2026-04-02T09:13:29+02:00

Marine palynology of the Alano di Piave Bartonian–Priabonian Global Stratotype Section and Point, NE Italy
Alexander J. P. Houben, Alina I. Iakovleva, Simone Galeotti, and Henk Brinkhuis
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 219–257, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-219-2026, 2026
Tiny fossils aged 40 x 106 years from an Italian rock section show that the ancient sea's environment was mostly stable. A global warming event caused wetter periods and river runoff into this sea. The study also provides fossil photos and introduces new types, important for future research.

Reassessment of the global distribution and diversity of modern planktonic foraminifera from the FORCIS database

2026-03-24T09:13:29+01:00

Reassessment of the global distribution and diversity of modern planktonic foraminifera from the FORCIS database
Sonia Chaabane, Ralf Schiebel, Julie Meilland, Geert-Jan A. Brummer, P. Graham Mortyn, Olivier Sulpis, Thomas B. Chalk, Xavier Giraud, Helene Howa, Azumi Kuroyanagi, Gregory Beaugrand, and Thibault de Garidel-Thoron
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 195–217, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-195-2026, 2026
Using the FORCIS database, we mapped the distribution of planktonic goraminifera that record past ocean conditions. Our study reveals that these species mostly inhabit the upper ocean and thrive in waters ranging from −2 °C to over 31 °C. Their range is shifting, with species once limited to warm regions now appearing in cooler areas and smaller species increasing in number. This work refines our view of their biogeography and how climate change is reshaping ocean life.

Unraveling Southern Ocean diatom diversity across the Eocene–Oligocene transition

2026-03-16T09:13:29+01:00

Unraveling Southern Ocean diatom diversity across the Eocene–Oligocene transition
Volkan Özen, Johan Renaudie, and David Lazarus
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 177–194, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-177-2026, 2026
The Eocene–Oligocene transition was a pivotal interval in Earth's geological history, marked by cooling and Antarctic glaciation. Our research explores how Southern Ocean diatoms responded to these changes. By analyzing records from multiple sites, we revealed previously unrecognized diatom diversity, and identified distinct patterns in diversity and extinction. These findings deepen our understanding of the interplay between climatic perturbations and the biosphere.

Early Eocene evolutionary trajectories within the Toweius genus: insights from a newly identified species in the equatorial Atlantic

2026-03-09T09:13:29+01:00

Early Eocene evolutionary trajectories within the Toweius genus: insights from a newly identified species in the equatorial Atlantic
Joseph D. Asanbe and Jorijntje Henderiks
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 159–175, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-159-2026, 2026
Toweius was among the most widespread and important calcareous nannoplankton groups in the oceans 53 million years ago, playing a key role in the evolutionary transition to another prominent group during the Cenozoic (Reticulofenestra). Using detailed biometric measurements with high-resolution imaging, we describe a distinctive, smaller morphotype of Toweius. Our results indicate that this form evolved gradually through speciation, shedding light on the complex evolutionary dynamics of Toweius.

Developing a new species-level database of Cretaceous calcareous nannoplankton occurrences – Uneptune

2026-02-11T09:13:29+01:00

Developing a new species-level database of Cretaceous calcareous nannoplankton occurrences – Uneptune
Yi Zhang, Jeremy R. Young, Paul R. Bown, Chengshan Wang, and Xi Chen
J. Micropalaeontol., 45, 147–157, https://doi.org/10.5194/jm-45-147-2026, 2026
We developed a new global database of microscopic fossil algae, known as calcareous nannoplankton, from Cretaceous ocean sediments to improve the understanding of ancient oceans and climate change. By integrating data from numerous published studies and standardising species names and ages, we created the Uneptune database with about 175 000 fossil records. Hosted on the Nannotax website, it provides visualisation tools that help scientists explore global marine ecosystems during the Cretaceous.