Mataoraphyllum is an extinct genus of fossil plants that lived during the Late Miocene epoch. The genus was first described in 2011 based on leaf fossils discovered in New Zealand.
These specimens were collected from the Coromandel Peninsula, a site known for its diverse plant fossil assemblages. Research on these fossils provides valuable insights into the prehistoric flora and paleoclimate of the southern hemisphere.
Fossil remains of Mataoraphyllum consist of preserved leaf cuticular compressions. The leaves are typically linear and needle-like, resembling those of modern conifers.
Microscopic analysis of the cuticular layer reveals detailed epidermal cell arrangements. These anatomical features allow researchers to distinguish the genus from other Miocene gymnosperms.
An extinct species of fossilized yew conifer from the late Miocene epoch, discovered in the Coromandel Peninsula of New Zealand.
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