RESULTS OF SPORE-AND-POLLEN AND DIATOM ANALYSES OF COLUMNS ON THE SHELF OF THE SEA OF AZOV

Abstract

Investigation of diatoms, pollen, and spores is of great importance in the study of present-day and buried marine sediments. Based on diatom and palynological analyses, some problems of the stratigraphy of bottom sediments are refined and physiographic conditions existing during sedimentation are elucidated. Diatoms, pollen, and spores are major bioindicators of the Holocene and Pleistocene climate. Along with the terrigenous factor, sea organisms are of key importance in sedimentogenesis of the Sea of Azov. The effect of plankton and zoobenthos resides in filtration or adsorption of the pelagic and near-bottom suspension. Coquina makes up many beach ridges, banks, and bars extending for tens of kilometers into the Sea of Azov. Subordinate suppliers of sediments are represented by eolian transport of the material from the steppe zone and submarine mud volcanism developed in the southern part of the sea. The Azov ecosystem also accumulates spores and pollen of cultivated plants, as well as a wide spectrum of pollutants, including agricultural pesticides, oil hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and others.