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Proactive disclosure Print version | | Natural Resources Canada > Earth Sciences Sector > Geological Survey of Canada > Palynology
What is palynology?
Palynology is the study of organic-walled microfossils (palynomorphs), which includes
microscopic reproductive bodies (pollen and spores) of terrestrial
plants, and the resting cysts of mostly marine "algae" (dinoflagellates).
Microfossils are captured in sediment during its deposition and are
recovered by dissolving the minerals and concentrating the palynomorphs.
Pollen and spores of terrestrial plants |
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Pollen of conifers or gymnosperms (shrubs and trees) |
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Pollen of flowering plants (herbs, shrubs and trees) |
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Spores of ferns and allies (herbaceous) |
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Marine dinoflagellate cysts |
These single-celled algae are best known for causing "red" tides
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