Palynology and palaeoenvironment of the bhuban formation (early miocene) of Ramrikawn, near Aizawl, Mizoram, India

Abstract

The palynoflora recorded from the Bhuban Formation (Early Miocene) of Ramrikawn near Aizawl, Mizoram is dominated by pteridophytic spores followed by angiospermous and gymnospermous pollen and fungal remains. The assemblage also contains reworked Permian palynofossils. The presence of Striatriletes, Malvacearumpollis, Graminidites, Todisporites, Compositoipollenites, Pteridacidites, Tricolporopollenites, Dangripites and Spinizonocolpites shows diversified plant communities. The palynoflora suggests an Early Miocene age for the studied sequence. The present day distribution of families represented in the assemblage and abundance of fungal remains (Multiicellaesporites, Trichothyrites) indicates tropical-subtropical warm, humid climate. Occurrence of Spinizonocolpites, referable to coastal element Nypa, suggests near shore environment of deposition. The composition of palynoflora indicates the existence of brackish water swamp and prograding delta complex with fresh water influx.