Four benthic foraminiferal assemblages are recognized from surficial sediment samples collected in Biscayne Bay. The assemblages include: (1) a productivity assemblage; (2) a restricted environment assemblage; (3) an open-bay grass assemblage, and (4) an open-bay coarse sediment assemblage. The distribution patterns of these assemblages appear to be controlled by salinity, substrate, and organic input. The restricted environment assemblage is controlled by salinity and occurs in oligohaline to polyhaline conditions where point source fresh water input is a major factor. The productivity assemblage is associated with a region of Biscayne Bay with high surface water productivity and organic input. The open-bay seagrass assemblage occupies part of the open portion of Biscayne Bay with free circulation and exchange with the Atlantic Ocean. The open-bay coarse sediment assemblage overlaps the previous open-bay assemblage but is distinct in its faunal composition and higher species dominance associated with coarse sandy substrates.

(This abstract was taken from the Greater Everglades Ecosystem Restoration (GEER) Open File Report (PDF, 8.7 MB))

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