Triplochitioxylon (Sterculiaceae): A New Genus of Wood from the Eocene of Oregon and Its Bearing on Xylem Evolution in the Extant Genus Triplochiton
Manchester SR. 1979. Triplochitioxylon (Sterculiaceae): A New Genus of Wood from the Eocene of Oregon and Its Bearing on Xylem Evolution in the Extant Genus Triplochiton. American Journal of Botany. 66(6):699-708
A new sterculiaceous wood, Triplochitioxylon oregonensis gen. et sp n., was collected from a Middle Eocene locality in the Clarno Formation of Oregon. Anatomical data indicate a close natural relationship between T. oregonensis and the living species of Triplochiton, a genus endemic to tropical Africa. The fossil is believed to represent a population of the group or complex from which Triplochiton evolved. The basic differences in the xylem organizations of the two genera are explained by a significant reduction of fusiform initial length and by a complete suppression of post-cambial parenchyma strand elongation in the extant genus Paleobotanical and biogeographical evidence suggest that the xylem evolution has been strongly influenced by the increasing aridity of the African continent.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Manchester, Steven
- Units
- JODA
- Keywords
- Clarno Nut Beds, Eocene, Fossils, Paleontology, Plants, Triplochitioxylon (Sterculiaceae) (prehistoric tree)