Argentine fossil kauri wood (Agathoxylon argentinum)

Agathoxylon argentinum

Discovered in the Upper Triassic Ischigualasto Formation of Argentina, Agathoxylon argentinum stands as a fascinating example of araucariaceous fossil wood. This ancient conifer provides valuable insights into the paleofloristic and paleoclimatic conditions of prehistoric South America.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • superclass Gymnospermae (Gymnosperms)
  • division Pinophyta
  • subclass Cupressidae
  • order Araucariales (Southern pines and monkey-puzzles)
  • family Araucariaceae (Araucaria family)
  • genus Agathoxylon (Agathis-wood fossil genus)
  • species Agathoxylon argentinum (Argentine fossil kauri wood)

Living Pulse

Morphology

The structural characteristics of Agathoxylon argentinum are studied through the anatomical features of its preserved wood. Researchers identify this species by examining its specific patterns of tracheid pitting and cross-field characteristics typical of ancient araucariaceous conifers.

Interesting facts

Specimens of this ancient tree were found in the Ischigualasto Formation, a geological area renowned for its rich Triassic fossil record.

Geography of distribution

  • Argentina

Sources

  • Bodnar, J., Sagasti, A.J., Correa, G.A., Miranda, V. & Medina, F. (2022). Araucariaceous fossil woods from the Upper Triassic Ischigualasto Formation (San Juan Province, Argentina). Journal of Paleontology.

See also

True Araucarias

True Araucarias

Araucaria sect. Araucaria

Araucaria sect. Araucaria is a botanical section of evergreen conifers native to South America. It …