Benthic foraminifera assemblages as elemental pollution bioindicator in marine sediments around fish farm (Vrgada Island, Central Adriatic, Croatia)

摘要: Effects on sediments of fish farming activity near Vrgada Island was analysed through living and total foraminiferal assemblages concentration major, minor trace elements from three sediment cores. Elemental concentrations are in accordance with carbonate characteristics the surrounding area show mostly natural element variations between sampling locations throughout cores, no significant increases due to activity. Only phosphorus shows elevate values below cage, assigned pellets. Foraminiferal communities dominated by epifaunal stress tolerant species, while diversity indices point normal marine conditions. The type substrate content principally influence community composition, other elemental have perceptible effect assemblages. Some species Ammonia tepida, beccarii, Elphidium crispum, macellum genus Haynesina confirmed be elevated nutrient (phosphorus) content, parkinsoniana sensitivity pollution. Postmortem processes cause decrease density richness core depth. All results negligible relatively stable environmental conditions at all locations.