Maastrichtian extinctions of planktonic foraminifera in Central and Eastern Poland

Abstract

Three main steps in the extinction of planktonic foraminifers can be distinguished in the axial zone of the Danish-Polish Trough during the latest Maastrichtian of the Central Poland (Foraminiferal Transitional Province):

1. The extinction in the late Belemnitella junior Zone of all species of Globotruncana.

2. The extinction in the late Hoploscaphites constrictus crassus Zone of all species of Rugoglobigerina which is shortly followed by 3;

3. The extinction of the last planktonic species of the genera Heterohelix, Globigerinelloides and Guembelitria.

The late Maastrichtian worldwide regression, which coincided with tectonic activity in the Danish-Polish Trough and the cooling of the climate following the regression were most probably responsible for the extinctions of planktonic foraminifers in the area studied during latest Maastrichtian.