Palynology in biostratigraphy and palaeoecology of Indian Lower Gondwana formations

Abstract

A critical synthesis of the new palynological data from sequences out of six boreholes through the Lower Gondwana Formations in India has enabled palynostratigraphic and palaeoclimatic conclusions of significance viz.,
 (1) The Lower Gondwana sedimentation commenced with a glaciation followed by another glacial phase, interpolated with a short interglacial. The older glacial phase constitutes the Talchir Stage, the interglacial represents older Karharbari and the younger glacial phase occurred dur.ing deposition of younger Karharbari Fm followed by a long interglacial encompassing the Barakar, Ironstone Shale and Raniganj Fms. It has been found that homotaxial deposits of the later glacial phase differed in their lithological, palaeobotanical and to some extent palynological characteristics due to differences in their proximity to centres of glaciation.
 (2) In the younger part of the sequence, the Panchet Fm appears to have commenced with another cooler phase presumably due to another minor glaciation.
 (3) Immediately following the glacial phases, the interglacial commenced with humid climate which gradually or quickly declined.