Distribution of ostracodes in the innershelf sediments off Kasargod, south west coast of India

Surface sediment samples were collected from the innershelf off Kasargod, west coast of India, to appreciate the distribution of ostracoda fauna and the controls on the same. About 21 ostracode species have been identified which belong to 17 genera. The depth wise distribution pattern reveals that the fauna is less populated up to 25 m water depth, and thereafter the population increases. Diversity index suggests open marine conditions. The ostracodes distribution pattern is related to water depth, sedimentological aspects, organic matter and carbonate distributions. Correlation analysis reveals chat fine grain size, high organic matter and low carbonate content gives the minimum number of ostracodes and vice versa Linear and multiple correlation also show that deeper depth favours the higher population.