Abstract
We propose a phenomenon termed “pre-extinction dwarfing” in Cenozoic planktonic foraminifera. High-resolution morphometric analysis shows a reduction in maximum or mean test size in the 2–20 kyr interval preceding the extinction of Pliocene Globorotalia exilis and Globorotalia miocenica from the Caribbean Sea and middle Eocene Morozovelloides crassatus from the western North Atlantic. Through a series of case studies and review of qualitative observations from the literature, we suggest that dwarfing occurs in a number of species of planktonic foraminifera foreshadowing their demise and that such size changes are not just a phenomenon associated with mass extinction events. We propose that this is a common stress-induced pattern that results in diminutive size in the pre-extinction interval.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
