Rusinga hackberry (Celtis rusingensis)

Hackberry Nettle Tree
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey / License

Celtis rusingensis: Miocene Fossil Hackberry Profile

The ancient forests of the Miocene epoch harbored diverse flora, among which the fossil species Celtis rusingensis played a notable role. Discovered in the rich paleobotanical sites of Rusinga Island in Kenya, this extinct tree provides valuable insights into the historical distribution of the genus. Researchers utilize these fossilized remains to reconstruct past environments and understand the climatic shifts that shaped the African continent.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ Superrosids
  • ∟ rosids
  • ∟ order Rosales
  • ∟ family Cannabaceae (Hemp family)
  • ∟ genus Celtis (Hackberry)
  • ∟ species Celtis rusingensis (Rusinga hackberry)

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Morphology

Paleobotanical evidence for this species primarily consists of fossilized endocarps and leaf impressions. The stones of the fruit exhibit the characteristic reticulate surface sculpturing typical of hackberries, which aids in their identification in the fossil record. Leaf fossils associated with these deposits often show the asymmetrical bases and serrate margins commonly found within the genus.

Interesting facts

Fossils from Rusinga Island are globally famous for their association with early hominoid primates, making the local flora a critical component of paleoanthropological studies.

Geography of distribution

  • Kenya

Sources

  • GBIF
  • POWO

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