A large anatomically preserved calamitean stem from the Late Permian of southwest China with unusual growth rings, cortex development and leaf traces

SJ Wang, Jason Hilton, J Galtier, B Tian

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle

Abstract

A large permineralized calamitean stem, Arthropitys yunnanensis Tian et Gu from the Upper Permian of southwest China is reinvestigated and interpreted. The stem has a broad pith and well developed and large carinal canals. Secondary xylem is thick and characterized by wide parenchymatous interfascicular zones that remain constant in width throughout the wood. Striking features of the stem include the abundant leaf traces arranged in two whorls in the cortex with this arrangement previously unrecognized within calamitean stems, and the presence of growth rings in secondary xylem that suggest frequent fluctuations in environmental stress presumably due to variations in water availability. Features of A. yunnanensis infer the stem to be in the epidogenetical phase of calamitean development, and suggest it to be the basal part of a large trunk. Comparisons with biomechanical models for calamitean stems suggest this species had a semi-self supporting habit.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)229-244
Number of pages16
JournalPlant Systematics and Evolution
Volume264
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2006

Keywords

  • Upper Permian
  • anatomy
  • Arthropitys
  • sphenopsid
  • calamite
  • Equisetales

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