Slope Sedimentation and Organic Carbon Content in the Late Quaternary West Florida Slope Sediments

Slope sedimentation on the modern west Florida continental margin is controlled by pelagic carbonate accumulation and off-shelf sedimentation of neritic carbonates and terrigenous fines. Production and deposition of pelagic carbonates by planktonic foraminifera and coccoliths have played a significant role in the total slope sedimentation and are mainly promoted by sea-surface productivity. Organic carbon data reflect the relatively high biological productivity in surface waters, indicating high accumulation of biogenic calcareous sediments. The surface-water productivity in the study area is supported by the relation among microfossil assemblages, carbonate mineralogy and sedimentary organic carbon.