An updated suprageneric classification of planktic foraminifera after growing evidence of multiple benthic-planktic transitions

Planktic foraminifera have traditionally been classified within a single order: Globigerinida. However, recent phylogenetic studies, both molecular and stratophenetic, are evidencing the polyphyletic origin of planktic from several benthic ancestors. At least four independent events benthic-planktic transition identified. One them occurred after Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary mass extinction, originating first Cenozoic globigerinids. Another three in Mesozoic, groups (globotruncanids, heterohelicids guembelitriids) not related phylogenetically to each other or current These findings make it necessary carry out an exhaustive review their suprageneric systematics, mainly at order level. Here we propose new, more natural classification, grouping into orders: Globigerinida, Heterohelicida, Globotruncanida n. ord., Guembelitriida ord. To better reflect diversity phylogeny foraminifera, also defined two new superfamilies: Abathomphaloidea superfam. Parvularugoglobigerinoidea superfam., one family: Parvularuglobigerinidae fam.