Interrelations between stromatoporoid morphometric features – a quantitative approach based on specimens from the Silurian of Podolia (Ukraine) and the Devonian of the Holy Cross Mountains (Poland)

Morphometric attributes of 705 stromatoporoid specimens from a number exposures the Silurian Podolia (Ukraine) and Devonian Holy Cross Mountains (Poland), representing wide array shallow water carbonate sedimentary environments, have been analysed. Taken into account were such parameters as: general shape skeleton, final growth form (living surface profile), upper character, latilaminae arrangement, burial ratio type initial surface. A new ratios has introduced, designed mainly to improve mapping outlines stromatoporoids surfaces. All studied treated as belonging one group, relations between particular tested. The results analysed in terms potential environmental factors influencing morphometric features. Most distinguished are common group occur various combinations, with an important exception reflect skeleton’s surface, which distinctly predominated by convex variants. This indicates that concavity was highly undesired feature among stromatoporoids. Upper convexity is interpreted herein response hazard clogging animals pores tiny sediment particles suspended bottom turbid layer. Common low living profiles occurrence smooth but non-enveloping arrangement other reflections this phenomenon. Burial sediments redeposition also governing development. No direct arguments indicating photosensitivity can be deduced presented results. hitherto postulated allometric tendency starting laminar forms later adopting consecutively higher profile shapes not confirmed here. On contrary, for gradual elimination very high increasing size observed. skeleton always effect combination agents.