Distribution pattern of deep-water ostracod assemblages from Lower Pleistocene sediments from Furnari, Sicily

Ostracod assemblages were analysed from three samples, from Lower Pleistocene sediments cropping out near Furnari, NE Sicily. Samples were collecled from gravely sandy coral-rubbles along a palaeofaull scarp and from silts and clayey silts proximally and distally located to the scarp foot. The ostracod assemblages indicate a palaeoenvironment in the upper bathyal zone, between 200 and about 600 m depth. Differences in composition, species richness and specimen abundance of autochthonous palaeocommunities are mainly due to substrate grain size and food availability, partly relating to the presence of deep-water coral build-ups along the fault. Allochthonous assemblages indicate a considerable down-slope displacement, seemingly by floating and subsequent settling.