Polynological

Fossilized plants and their spores and pollen preserved in the rocks through geological ages are studied in the subject of palaeobotany, under which Palynology deals with the study of the palynomorphs i.e. spores and pollen.
Palynological research is based on field and laboratory studies. The acquired knowledge/data is utilized to resolve different geological problems related to age, boundary, local / basinal /regional / correlation and zonation of stratigraphic sequence.

Collection and preparation of samples:

Laboratory studies ---Processing (maceration):

The basic purpose of maceration is to extract, concentrate and preserve the microfossils. For extraction the sample is exposed to various acid treatments to dissolve the minerals. The chemicals vary with the rock types. In between the acid treatments, sieving and centrifuging are carried out for removal of unwanted material, concentration of required material and acid removal. Between each stage of acid treatment the maceration process is monitored under the biological microscope. At the final stage the residual material is concentrated by panning and stored in liquid medium like glycerine + water for study as temporary slides or preserved as permanent slides with DPX mount.

Existing location:

NCEGR, Kolkata

Geological Survey of India

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Study

Identification at the final stage is carried out under a high resolution Inverted Biological Microscope. Important and reference images of the palynomorphs are stored in an Image Analyzer (a powerful computer with requisite software) for future reference.Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the palynoflora have been successfully utilized in coal and lignite exploration by solving stratigraphic ambiguity, understanding vegetation history, palaeogeography and in outlining particular environmental features.

Palynological StudiesBack to laboratory facilities

Collection and preparation of samples:

Laboratory studies ---Processing (maceration):

Existing location:

NCEGR, Kolkata

Study