Permian foraminifera in the Arckaringa Basin, and their environmental significance

Abstract

The environmental significance of the Lower Permian arenaceous foraminifera recovered from the Arckaringa Basin, South Australia, is interpreted qualitatively in comparison to Recent foraminiferal assemblages. The internal (faunal) comparative approach indicates variability in biofacies similar to that in Recent marginal-marine complexes. Indications of a more restricted environment are evident. The environment of deposition is envisaged as a glacial lake or series of lakes situated along earlier tectonically active troughs, with restricted access to the sea.