METHODS

Standard methods of sample processing were applied to 20-cm3 plugs removed from split-core sections. These were dried at 40°C to constant weight and then soaked in tepid distilled water for up to 24 hr before wet sediment sieving on a 63-µm mesh. Sediment disaggregation was variable, but most samples broke down readily after gentle sieving with warm tap water. Coarse residues were retained and dried at 40°C to constant weight. Foraminifers were picked from the entire >63-µm residue. Specimens were photographed using a Zeiss 940 digital scanning electron microscope at University College London.

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