Biostratigraphical and palaeobiogeographical patterns of the larger porcelaneous foraminifer Austrotrillina Parr, 1942

Among the Tethyan larger porcelaneous foraminifera widespread from middle–late Eocene to middle Miocene, Austrotrillina Parr, 1942 is only genus showing a non-homogeneous shell structure. This consists of parakeriotheca, coated by thin, dense tectum. Four species (A. brunni, A. eocaenica, howchini, striata) have been often used as biostratigraphical markers in Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific areas. New materials southeastern Spain Central (Indonesia, Kita-daito-jima, Kikai Seamount) were studied assess their taxonomic status, circumscription palaeobiogeographical patterns. Based on re-assessed structures asmariensis Adams considered junior synonym brunni Marie. eocaenica first appears Iran. Two Rupelian descendants, striata, migrated Western Tethys into Indo-Pacific. striata reached Indonesia Australia Chattian, then disappeared Langhian Kita-daito-jima. occurred Burdigalian early Serravallian South Australia. westernmost (southeastern Spain). From exclusive occurrence howchini areas possible result closing Seaway, which differentiated bioprovinces. disappears latemost Langhian–early Seamount. The distribution these suggests an Miocene active connection Eastern Africa with Indo–West Pacific.