Palynology of Kamthi Formation in Godavari Graben

Abstract

Five palynological assemblages have been recognized in the Kamthi Formation of Godavari Graben. The assemblages are characterized by overall abundance of striate disaccate pollen. The associated palynofossils, however, distinguish the palynoassemblages at various levels of the formation. The Lower Member containing coal seams shows unequivocal resemblance with the Raniganj palynoflora of Damodar Valley and Son Mahanadi coalfields District change in lithology at the beginning of the Middle member is marked by the appearance of Parasaccites rich assemblage simulating a cooling phase akin to that observed during the Talchir period. The younger sediments of the Middle Member contain Corisaccites Guttulapollenites Assemblage and Densipollenites Assemblage in order of succession representing the uppermost Permian palynoflora in Godavari Graben. The youngest assemblage also indicates close proximity to the Permian Triassic, thus making the Kamthi Formation a time transgressive unit.