Palaeoecological studies of benthic foraminifera from the Zogelsdorf Formation (Eggenburgian, Early Miocene) in the Eggenburg area (Austria)

The Early Miocene transgression which inundated the rugged crystalline morphology of the Bohemian Massif led to the formation of the Zogelsdorf Formation, which is characterised by a complex distribution of foraminiferal assemblages. Generally, preservation of the foraminiferal tests is poor; however, it was possible to distinguish six different foraminiferal assemblages using statistical methods (Qmode cluster analysis and information index as a measure of diversity) applied to quantified species or genera counts, in addition to state of preservation. This method of analysis has allowed to differentiate between shallow-water assemblages, in part associated with sea grass meadows ( Ammonia Assemblage and Cibicides-Elphidium Assemblage), in part with sandy bottom and a higher energy conditions ( Elphidium Assemblage), and deeper water assemblages (>30m) ( Hanzawaia Assemblage, Cibicides pseudoungerianus Assemblage and Cassidulina Assemblage).