Changes in bivalve functional and assemblage ecology in response to environmental change in the Caribbean Neogene

摘要: We documented changes in the relative abundance of bivalve genera and functional groups southwest Caribbean over past 11 Myr to determine their response oceanographic associated with closure Central American Seaway ca. 3.5 Ma. Quantitative bulk samples from 29 localities yielded 106,000 specimens 145 genera. All were assigned based on diet, relationship substrate, mobility. Ordinations assemblages quantitative data for demonstrated strong shifts community structure, a stark contrast between older than 5 Ma those younger These are primarily due an increase attached epifaunal bivalves (e.g., Chama, Arcopsis, Barbatia) decrease infaunal Varicorbula Caryocorbula). Taxa seagrasses, including deposit-feeding chemosymbiotic Lucina), also increased compared suspension feeders. The composition is correlated carbonate content sediments percentage skeletal biomass that coral. Our results strongly support hypothesis increases extent coral reefs Thalassia communities important drivers biologic turnover Neogene benthic communities.