The Enigma of Angiosperm Origins

The enigmatic origins of the dominant flowering plant groups are reviewed in this book.

The origins of angiosperms are still debated, despite many years of work by scientists from differing disciplines. The progress made toward resolving the problem is reviewed in this book. The author suggests that the only fruitful method of study is the total integrated use of the fossil record, particularly dispersed palynomorphs. This includes the use of electron microscopy and refined data handling to record the occurrence of microscopic fossils, rather than the extensive use of morphology and cladistics. The methods advocated in this book could result in a rethink of the current classification of living plants. The ideas presented will initiate discussion between both professionals and students of palaeontology and plant science on the wider possibilities that may clarify the enigmatic origins of the dominant flowering plant groups.

Preface; Part I. The Setting of the Problem: 1. Outline history of investigations; 2. Current contributions on origin; 3. Challenges to customary procedures; 4. Working principles; 5. Stratigraphic framework; 6. General Mesozoic palynologic evidence; 7. Integration of Mesozoic floras and faunas; Part II. The Evidence for Cretaceous Origin: 8. Mesozoic megafossils; 9. English Barremian monosulcate pollen; 10. First convincing angiospermous fossils; 11. Cretaceous angiosperm consolidation; Part III. Consequences and Conclusions: 12. Cenozoic angiosperm radiation; 13. Research unattained but possible; 14. Principles, time and choice; 15. General biological conclusions; Glossary; References; Index.

The origins of angiosperms are still debated, after many years of study. The progress made toward resolving the problem is reviewed in this book, and the wider possibilities that may clarify the enigmatic origins of the dominant flowering plant groups are discussed.