Indiana State Univeristy1, Geology, Terre Haute, IN 47809 Indiana State University2, Geology, Terre Haute, IN 47809 Scripps Institute of Oceanography3, Integrated Ocean Division, La Jolla, CA 92093
The ecology and distribution of living (rose Bengal-stained) foraminifera (≥150μm) were examined from samples collected along transects across environmental gradients within the Venice Lagoon, Italy. This study is part of a collaborative, ongoing project (SIOSED) focusing on the biogeochemical and ecological responses to contaminants in the Venice Lagoon. Dominant taxa included: Ammonia parkinsoniana, Ammonia tepida, Haynesina germanica, and Quinqueloculina spp. Differences in the abundances, microhabitat preferences, and percentage of abnormal morphologies of foraminiferal species living in different environments may result from differences in exposure to contaminants. Results from this study provide information that can be used to assess the modern and historical influence of contaminants on seafloor ecosystems in the Venice Lagoon and elsewhere. The "SIOSED" project is part of a comprehensive effort to support the integrated management of Venice Lagoon sediments and ecosystems promoted by the Venice Water Authority through its Concessionary, Consorzio Venezia Nuova.
[Abstract (DOC)]