Distribution of Foraminifera and Ostracoda and their Ecological Conditions in the Beach Sands of Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, Southeast Coast of India

In order to study the distribution of Foraminifera and Ostracoda in the beach sands of Tuticorin Coast, Tamil Nadu for an environmental implication, a total of 18 beach sand and water samples were collected along the coast of Tuticorin, from Palayakayal to Tuticorin Old Harbour. The microfauna were separated from the sediments by using standard micropaleontological techniques. Water and sediment parameters were measured in both field and lab from the collected samples. In the present work, a total of 31 species of foraminifera and 16 Ostracoda species were identified. Sand is the only substrate recorded in the study area and it is appears congenial for the population abundance. Predation on foraminiferal tests and change in their color has also noticed in few species. Occurrence of few broken and abraded tests indicates the high amplitude of tidal agitation and comparatively low deposition of sand in the beach environment of Tuticorin coast.