THE MICROPALEONTOLOGY AND SIGNIFICANCE OF PELAGIC SEDIMENT DEPOSITS ALONG DEEP-SEA CORAL ECOSYSTEMS (DSCE) OFF THE COAST OF FLORIDA

Calcareous sediments depositing along deep-sea regions off the coast of Florida display a diverse assemblage of planktonic microfossils. These biogenic “oozes” are pelagic sediments that are composed of >30% carbonate microfossils and are estimated to cover about 50% of the ocean floor, which accounts for about 67% of calcium carbonate in oceanic surface sediments. Biogenic oozes contribute significantly to the overall sediment supply and function of Deep-Sea Coral Ecosystems (DSCE). However, the composition and distribution of these deposits remains poorly documented. Sea floor surface sediments have been collected in situ from five regions via Johnson Sea Link submersible along the coast of Florida. Analysis of the taxonomy and biodiversity of these samples reveals a diverse accumulation of various planktonic species among a number of genera. A continuous pelagic sediment supply driven by oceanic currents is an essential factor that provides deep-sea aphotic reefs with nutrients and aids in stabilizing their infrastructure for growth. Comparative analysis using taxonomic and statistical methods of the biogenic ooze deposits collected will help characterize the composition and dynamics of sediment supply for Florida’s DSCE’s.