miliolids

Miliolids are a diverse group of marine microorganisms belonging to the phylum Foraminifera. These single-celled organisms are characterized by their calcareous shells, known as tests, which are often composed of calcite that has been non-agglutinate. A key distinguishing feature of many miliolids is the enrolled, or coiled, arrangement of their chambers within the test, resembling a tiny snail shell or a tightly wound ball of string. However, chamber arrangement can vary, with some exhibiting biserial or even uniserial forms. The surface of the miliolid test is typically smooth and imperforate, meaning it lacks visible pores, although microscopic pores may be present. The aperture, the opening through which the pseudopods extend, is often furnished with a lip or tooth-like projection. Miliolids are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to deeper ocean settings, and are particularly common in tropical and subtropical regions. They play a role in marine ecosystems as part of the benthos, dwelling on or within sediments, and as consumers of small algae and bacteria. Their fossil record is extensive, making them valuable index fossils for biostratigraphy and paleoceanographic studies.