Fossil algae, Victoria, Australia

Abstract

The meagre literature on the fossil algae suggests that these plants occurred infrequently in Victoria in the past, but checking of biological and stratigraphical papers and examination of old and new collections shows that they were in fact much more widely distributed than indicated. This paper endeavors to put the fossil alga record into better perspective and is principally a resume of recent discoveries and re-interpretation of old material. It is to be remembered that in the older rocks in particular the nature of the algae makes it difficult to be sure of identification and that many of the markings and structures discussed might well be the result of bioturbation, burrowing, or the remains of nondescript animals. However, in several instances where the evidence strongly indicates the presence of fossil algae, the remains are figured, and affiliations are discussed. Again it will cause no surprise to note that most records are from marine beds.