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Metasequoia glyptostroboides Hu et W.C. Cheng has been grown in the Peter the Great Botanical Garden of the BIN RAS since 1952, where it was first introduced into cultivation in Russia. It is the most winter-hardy representative of the Taxodiaceae family suitable for open field culture in St. Petersburg. The best specimens reached 14.4 m in height with a trunk diameter of 29 cm at the age of 69 years. In 2018, seed production was recorded for the first time. Seed offspring were obtained in 2020. In the conditions of the warming of the climate of St. Petersburg in the first two decades of the 21st century, there is a surge in the generative ability of woody exotics, an increasing number of trees and shrubs are beginning to bear fruits and seeds.

This work presents the results of integrated micropaleontological and lithogeochemical analysis of Upper Oligocene continental deposits of the Turtas Formation from the Zyryanskaya-1 borehole (southwestern part of the Tyumen Region, Western Siberia). The predominance of freshwater planktonic diatoms at the subordinate significance of benthic species, as well as the presence of gemmuloscleres of sponges, indicates the coastal sedimentation conditions in a freshwater basin varying in depth from 3 to 50 m. The studied palynocomplex is similar to the spore-and-pollen spectra of the Turtas Formation of the Lower Ob Region, but differs from palynocomplexes of the same formation spread over the southern regions of Western Siberia in a low amount of Taxodiaceae/Cupressaceae and Betulaceae pollen, as well as the absence of Fagaceae pollen and Pseudokomewuia freshwater dinocysts. The revealed differences can be explained both by facies features and by variations in the volume of the Turtas Formation in the currently known localities. The data on the microelemental composition of samples, as well as geochemical and petrogeochemical modules, indicate that the accumulation of the Turtas Formation occurred in the coastal areas of a low-mineralized basin under relatively warm humid climatic conditions.

The former family Taxodiaceae is currently treated as nine genera in five subfamilies of the family Cupressaceae. Pollen of the ‘taxodiaceous’ Cupressaceae typically has a papilla in the leptoma ar...

Spore-pollen investigations of amber-bearing rocks of Ukrainian Polissia were conducted, two spore-pollen complexes were obtained. The taxonomic composition of both spore-pollen complexes is identical, they differ only in the proportions of the composition of the individual components: in the first SPC pollen of Pinaceae prevails over Taxodiaceae and Sciadopithys, angiosperm pollen is quite diverse, although its role is subordinate, in the second SPK pollen of Taxodiaceae and Sciadopithys prevails over Pinaceae, and the role of angiosperm pollen sharply decreases to several percent, a significant proportion of this group is Rhus pollen. On the base of own palynological investigation of amber-containing sediments of western Polissia a paleoclimate reconstruction of Mezhygorye time (early Oligocene) by coexistence approach (CA) method was done. The set of climate parameters has been expanded: mean annual temperature (MAT); mean temperature of the coldest month (CMT); mean temperature of the warmest month (WMT); mean annual precipitation (MAP); precipitation of the wettest month (HMP); precipitation of the direst month (LMP); precipitation of the warmest month (WMP). Accuracy of calculation has been increased compared to previous studies. It is established that the climate was warm-temperate, narrow to subtropical (mean annual temperature +15,8°C). It corresponds to the modern climate of "Csa"-type according to the Koppen-Geiger classification (Mediterranean) or subtropical climate of the western coasts of the continents according to the Alisov classification.

In some cases, the oil shale deposited in shallow lakes may be genetically associated with the coal-bearing successions. Although paleovegetation is an important controlling factor for the formation of oil shale- and coal-bearing successions, few studies have focused on their joint characterization. In this study, a total of twenty-one oil shale and coal samples were collected from the upper member of the Lower Cretaceous Muling Formation (K1ml2) in the Laoheishan Basin, and investigated for their bulk geochemical, maceral, palynological, and terpenoid biomarker characteristics, in order to reconstruct the paleovegetation and reveal its influence on the formation of oil shale and coal. The K1ml2 is subdivided into lower, middle, and upper units. The studied oil shale samples from the lower and upper units display a high ash yield (Ad), low total organic carbon (TOC) and sulfur (S) contents, and limited hydrocarbon generation potential. The studied coal samples from the middle unit are characterized by low Ad, and high TOC and low S values, and show significant hydrocarbon generation potential. The paleovegetation during the formation of the lower unit was dominated by mire vegetation, such as shrubs (e.g., Lygodiaceae, Schizaeaceae), tree ferns (e.g., Dicksoniaceae/Cyatheaceae), and coniferous trees (e.g., Podocarpaceae). In the middle unit interval, the paleovegetation was represented by highland vegetation (Pinaceae and Araucariaceae) and peat-forming coniferous plants (e.g., Podocarpaceae, Cupressaceae/Taxodiaceae). Various vegetation, such as herbs (e.g., Osmundaceae), shrubs (e.g., Schizaeaceae), and coniferous trees (e.g., Podocarpaceae) was prosperous during the upper unit interval. Coniferous trees could provide abundant hydrogen-rich materials (e.g., resins) to the mire/lake, which may elevate the hydrogen content in peat/lake sediments, and finally result in higher hydrocarbon generation potential in the coal than in the oil shale. Therefore, the influence of paleovegetation on the formation of oil shale and coal should be fully considered when studying oil shale- and coal-bearing successions. The results also provide guidance for further exploration studies on oil shale and coal in northeast China.

Three different lithotypes (xylitic, gelified and matrix) of Pliocene lignite from the Velenje Basin, Slovenia, were investigated to establish the variations of biomarker compositions in solvent extracts and the stable isotope (carbon and nitrogen) compositions of bulk material. From the biomarker results, the xylitic lithotype almost exclusively originates from gymnosperms (conifers such as Taxodiaceae), as indicated by the very high contents of sesquiterpenoids and diterpenoids but very low abundances of n-alkanes and non-hopanoid triterpenoids. The relative proportion of gymnosperms to angiosperms in the paleomire is reflected by the ratio of diterpenoids to the sum of diterpenoids and non-hopanoid triterpenoids (Di-/(Di-+Tri-terpenoids)), which is close to 1 (av. 0.99) in the xylitic lithotype. The predominance of diterpenoids from conifers in the xylitic lithotype is associated with high C/N ratios and intermediate total sulfur (TS). The very low abundance of hop-17(21)-ene and the absence of further hopanoids in the xylitic lithotype indicate a restricted influence of bacterial degradation under relatively dry conditions in the paleomire. The matrix lithotype also originated preferentially from gymnosperms under dry depositional conditions, as indicated by the high Di-/(Di-+Tri-terpenoids) ratio (0.95), low amounts of hopanoids and low TS content. The gelified lithotype is characterized by a high content of n-alkanes and wide variation of the Di-/(Di-+Tri-terpenoids) ratio (0.13–0.88), indicating a fluctuating contribution of angiosperms to the plant community in the paleomire during formation of this lithotype. In addition, the high abundance of hop-17(21)-ene and TS in the gelified lithotype compared with the other two lithotypes suggests the effect of bacterial activity under relatively wet/humid conditions during formation of the gelified lithotype, which is also supported by the considerable content of mid-chain n-alkanes. The high correlation between the δ13C and δ15N values (R2 = 0.68) indicates that the stable carbon and nitrogen isotope composition in the Velenje lignites were probably influenced by the same factors (e.g. precursor plants and/or microbial activity). The stable carbon isotopic values (av. −25.44‰) and nitrogen isotopic values (av. 2.15‰) of the xylitic lithotype are higher than those of the gelified lithotype (av. δ13C = −27.48‰, δ15N = 1.37‰) and the matrix lithotype (av. δ13C = −27.09‰, δ15N = 1.10‰). The relatively high correlation between the diterpenoid content and both δ13C and δ15N values suggests that the stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic composition of the three lithotypes might reflect the composition of the original plant material in the paleomire. The dominance of conifers as precursor plants in the xylitic lithotype might be the main reason for the higher δ13C values and probably also the higher δ15N values. The relatively higher δ15N values in the xylitic lithotype than in the other types could be explained by the high amount of decay-resistant xylem and low mineral (e.g. clay) content in the xylitic lithotype. The slightly lower δ13C but higher δ15N values in the gelified lithotype than in the matrix lithotype can be explained by variation of parent plant materials and the influence of bacterial activity.

The present study focuses on the Lower Cretaceous Khukhteeg Formation (Central Mongolia), which yields palynological assemblage that is used to understand the paleoclimate. Palynology samples from the Khovil opencast mine Choir-Nyalga Basin in the Central Mongolia have been analyzed for palynomorphs with SEM. The assemblage is dominated by pollen to conifers, such as Pinaceae, Podocarpaceae and Taxodiaceae, indicating the vegetation of conifer forests. The assemblage contains abundant spores Schizaeaceae, Cyatheaceae, which are generally associated with wet habitats. According to the detailed analyses, the plant community indicates that warm and humid subtropical paleoclimate controlled the study area during the Early Cretaceous.

This chapter introduces 8 species of medicinal ferns in 5 families, such as Ginkgo biloba of Ginkgoaceae, Pinus massoniana of Pinaceae, Cunninghamia lanceolata of Taxodiaceae, Cupressus funebris and Thuja orientalis of Cupressaceae, Nageia nagi, Podocarpus macrophyllus var. maki, Podocarpus neriifolius of Podocarpaceae.

Aim. The aim of the article is to reveal the development project for restoring and reconstruction of misaligned and overripe plantations of the new coniferetum of the Dendrological Park «Askania-Nova». Materials and Methods . The stands of trees were studied by satellite navigation and their electronic map was made. A taxonomic composition, a phytocoenotic structure and landscape-spatial organization of the coniferetum’s plantations had been analyzed. The changes of these indices were shown in retrospective review. Results . The concept of reconstruction which foresees the creation of new collections of generic complexes Tsuga, Cedrus, Ephedra, Thujopsis, preservation of the modern landscape-spatial organization of Pinaceae, Taxodiaceae, Ginkgoaceae, Cupressaceae collections, and their significant enrichment had been proposed. The main and additional assortment of plants was selected. It contained 180 taxa, 88 species and 92 cultivars (forms), 18 genera of 8 families. Conclusions . The implementation of the reconstruction project will provide for the long-term functioning of the gymnosperm collection in a composition of the Dendrological Park “Askania-Nova».

Tissues of the pinna and rachis of Cycas diannaensis and pinna, rachis, and root of Cycas taiwaniana, rachis of Cycas szechuanensis, stem of Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Taxodiaceae), stems of Chamaecyparis obtusa (Sieb.et Zucc.) Endl cv. Tetragona (Cupressaceae), and leaves and stems of Michelia alba and Michelia figo and stems of Amygdalus persica (angiosperms) were compared using the scanning electron microscopy. In all species of these gymnosperms, their many tracheary elemnts have perforations in end walls and lateral walls. These structures are the same as vessels of angiosperms; therefore, these tracheary elements are vessel elements. Many types of vessels were found in cycads: pitted vessels in M. glyptostroboides, spiral and pitted vessels in Chamaecyparis obtusa cv. Tetragona. The development and structural characteristics of vessels of cycads, the two other gymnosperms, and the angiosperms were identical. Some characters such as extent of incline of perforation plate in the end wall showed that vessel characters of some angiosperms were more primitive than the cycads or M. glyptostroboides and C. obtusa cv. Tetragona. Many of the vessel elements of the angiosperms were band shaped, without end walls, and had only two lateral walls and other two margins; the end was acuate or with an arc margin; the end of some vessel elements was acute with no perforations, many perforations located only in lateral wall. Such results are rarely reported in previous work. In all species, perforations were seen only in tracheae, and the walls of parenchyma cells only had a thin primary wall and without perforation. Analysis and discussion to the experimental measures which were observed and research of the structure of vessel or tracheid, pointed out that several measures all could be used and the Jeffrey’ method effects were better. Comparing the vessels of cycads, Taxodiaceae and Cupressaceae helps us to understand the mechanism in which these most primitive or more primitive extant gymnosperms were adapted to harsh environments and to understand these species’ evolutionary extent, and has the significance to the studies of plant anatomy, plant systematics and plant evolution.

Coprolites from the Early Cretaceous vertebrate bone-bed at Ariño in Teruel, Spain, were analyzed geochemically and palynologically. They contain various inclusions, such as small bone fragments, abundant plant remains, pollen, and spores. We attribute the coprolites to carnivorous dinosaurs based partly on their morphology together with the presence of bone fragments, and a high content of calcium phosphate (hydroxylapatite) with calcite. Well-preserved pollen and spore assemblages were identified in all coprolite samples and a slightly poorer assemblage was obtained from the adjacent sediments, both indicating an Early Cretaceous (Albian) age. This shows that the coprolites are in situ and also confirms previous age determinations for the host strata. The depositional environment is interpreted as a continental wetland based on the palynoflora, which includes several hydrophilic taxa, together with sparse occurrences of fresh-water algae, such as Ovoidites, and the absence of marine palynomorphs. Although the coprolites of Ariño samples generally are dominated by pollen produced by Taxodiaceae (cypress) and Cheirolepidiaceae (a family of extinct conifers), the sediment samples have a slightly higher relative abundance of fern spores. The distribution of major organic components varies between the coprolite and sediment samples, which is manifest by the considerably higher charcoal percentage within the coprolites. The high quantities of charcoal might be explained by a ground-dwelling species, feeding on smaller vertebrates that complemented its diet with plant material from a paleoenvironment were wild fires were a part of the ecosystem. The state of preservation of the spores and pollen is also more detailed in the coprolites, suggesting that encasement in calcium phosphate may inhibit degradation of sporopollenin., The Departamento de Educación, Cultura y Deporte, Gobierno de Aragón (exp. 201/2010, 201/10-2011, 201/10-11-2012, 201/10-11-12-13-2014), the DINOTUR CGL2013-41295-P project (Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad), Grupo de Investigación Consolidado E-62 FOCONTUR (Departamento de Innovación, Investigación y Universidad, Gobierno de Aragón and Fondo Social Europeo), Instituto Aragonés de Fomento, Fundación SAMCA, Instituto de Estudios Turolenses and Fundación Conjunto Paleontológico de Teruel-Dinópolis.

Wood anatomy is one of the tools used for taxonomic classification of species. By combining this tool with molecular phylogeny, the current groupings made in morphological studies can be discussed. This study describes the wood anatomy of the monotypic genera of Cupressaceae and analyses the features that could represent synapomorphies of the principal clades recovered by molecular phylogeny. The wood anatomical study shows the high homogeneity of this family, revealing the presence of common ancestral features that support the union between Taxodiaceae and Cupressaceae s.s. and the separation of Sciadopitys. It also supports the group formed by Taxodiaceae in Cupressaceae s.l. No clear division was observed between the callitroid and cupressoid clades. Some wood anatomical differences were observed in the Fitzroya–Diselma–Pilgerodendron and Microbiota–Platycladus–Tetraclinis associations. The wood anatomical features common to the family, such as axial tracheids without helical thickenings, homogeneous rays, cupressoid cross-field pits and the presence of a warty layer, are put forward as possible synapomorphies for Cupressaceae s.l. The clade-specific synapomorphies are taxodioid cross-field pits for taxodioid and sequoioid clades, absence of a well-defined torus in Thuja–Thujopsis and torus extensions in Diselma–Fitzroya–Widdringtonia.

Samples of detrital lignite have been collected for detailed organic geochemical and carbon isotope analyses from the First Lusatian lignite seam at the Adamow, Joźwin IIB and Tomislawice opencast mines, deposited after the last peak of the Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum. Carbon isotopic compositions of biomarkers from Polish lignite are reported for the first time. The aim of the study is to improve the chemotaxonomic value of biomarkers by relating the results to existing paleobotanical data, and to gain information about the influencing factors on δ13C of lignite and lipids. Furthermore, biomarker and isotopic proxies are tested for their applicability in paleoclimate studies. The molecular composition of the extracted lipids is highly variable, including leaf-wax n-alkanes in the C23 to C31 range, diterpenoids, hopanoids, and angiosperm-derived triterpenoids, as well as saturated fatty acids, long-chain n-alkanols and n-alkan-2-ones. The relative abundances of mid-chain (C23, C25) n-alkanes and their 1–2‰ higher δ13C values compared to long-chain n-alkanes (C29, C31) argue for a minor contribution of macrophytes (graminoids, etc.) to peat formation, enhanced during periods of raised water level. The presence of ferruginol and dehydroferruginol testifies the contribution of Taxodiaceae. The abundances of pimarane-type diterpenoids and the presence of non-aromatic abietane-derivatives argue for the contribution of Pinaceae. Based on the presence of lupeol and lupane-type triterpenoids, an input of Betulaceae can be concluded. The contribution of further angiosperms cannot be specified based on the composition of pentacyclic triterpenoids. However, the results indicate mixed vegetation, and are in agreement with paleobotanical data highlighting abundant conifers of the Taxodiaceae/Cupressaceae and Pinaceae families, as well as angiosperms of various families (e.g., Nyssa, Quercus, Fagus), including Betulaceae (e.g., Alnus, Betula, Corylus). Based on the relationship between the carbon preference index of n-alkanes and mean annual air temperatures, obtained from a global database of peatlands, an average temperature of 24.5 °C is obtained. This value is significantly higher as estimated from paleobotanical data (15.7–19.7 °C), probably due to the influence of changes in vegetation on carbon preference index. The relative abundances of diterpenoids versus di- plus angiosperm-derived triterpenoids in detrital lignite samples revealed variable contributions of gymnosperms and angiosperms during the middle Miocene. Consistent with these results, a positive relationship exists between the di-/(di- + tri-) terpenoid biomarker ratios and δ13C of lignite samples, indicating the dominating role of varying gymnosperm/angiosperm contributions on the carbon isotopic composition of lignite. The C-isotope data of long-chain n-alkanes, diterpenoids, and angiosperm-derived triterpenoids co-vary within the profiles, arguing for an overall control of changes in δ13C of atmospheric CO2 on δ13C of plant lipids. Fluctuations in δ13C of individual compounds may also be related to changes in carbon cycling within the peat, humidity and air temperature. The influence of local variations in ambient CO2 (e.g., the canopy effect) cannot be excluded.

Background ‘Zhongshanshan’ is the general designation for the superior interspecific hybrid clones of Taxodium species, which is widely grown for economic and ecological purposes in southern China. Growth is the priority objective in ‘Zhongshanshan’ tree improvement. A high-density linkage map is vital to efficiently identify key quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that affect growth. Results In total, 403.16 Gb of data, containing 2016,336 paired-end reads, was obtained after preprocessing. The average sequencing depth was 28.49 in T. distichum var. distichum, 25.18 in T. mucronatum, and 11.12 in each progeny. In total, 524,662 high-quality SLAFs were detected, of which 249,619 were polymorphic, and 6166 of the polymorphic markers met the requirements for use in constructing a genetic map. The final map harbored 6156 SLAF markers on 11 linkage groups, and was 1137.86 cM in length, with an average distance of 0.18 cM between adjacent markers. Separate QTL analyses of traits in different years by CIM detected 7 QTLs. While combining multiple-year data, 13 QTLs were detected by ICIM. 5 QTLs were repeatedly detected by the two methods, and among them, 3 significant QTLs (q6–2, q4–2 and q2–1) were detected in at least two traits. Bioinformatic analysis discoveried a gene annotated as a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase gene within q4–2. Conclusions This map is the most saturated one constructed in a Taxodiaceae species to date, and would provide useful information for future comparative mapping, genome assembly, and marker-assisted selection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12870-018-1493-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Paroxythrips gen. n. Type species: Paroxythrips podocarpi sp. n. Female macroptera. Mouth-cone short and rounded at apex, with 3-segmented maxillary palpi. Ocellar setae minute, pair I present, pair III situated behind mid-point between hind ocelli. Postocular setae 4 pairs. Antennae 8- segmented, segment I without median dorsal apical setae, III and IV with sensoria forked, III–VI with some microtrichial rows on both dorsal and ventral surfaces. Pronotum with one pair of posteroangular setae (Fig. 6). Mesonotum with median pair of setae anterior to submedian setae (Fig. 8). Metascutum with irregular transverse lines medially; median pair of setae far from anterior margin. Metapre-episternum transverse, usually with 2, rarely 3 setae. Prosternal ferna undivided, narrow at middle; basantra membranous and without setae; prospinasternum broad and transverse. Mesosternum with sternopleural sutures complete and reaching anterior margin; endofurca with a spinula. Metasternal endofurca without spinula. Fore wing first vein with long gap in setal row, 6–9 basal and 2 distal setae; clavus with 5 or 6 veinal and 1 discal setae; second vein with 6–15 setae often irregularly spaced; posterior fringe cilia wavy. Tarsi 2-segmented. Abdominal tergites without ctenidia but several microtrichia present on VIII anterolateral to spiracles, II–VIII with broad craspedum along posterior margin, but craspedum often indistinct on VIII; tergites II–VII with S3 setae (posteroangular setae) slightly mesad of posterior angle; tergites IV–VIII with S1 setae situated at outer side of CPS and their interval wide, about one-third of tergal width (Fig 10); tergite VIII with posteromarginal comb, microtrichia complete or absent at middle; tergite IX with MD setae prominent; tergite X with median split more than two-thirds; sternites II–VII with lobed posteromarginal craspedum between posteromarginal setae, but absent from median third of VII (Fig. 11); sternites III–VII with 3 pairs of posteromarginal setae, II with 2 pairs. Ovipositor developed. Male. Abdominal tergite IX without median short and stout setae; sternites III–VII each with a pore plate (Fig.13). Comments. This genus resembles Oxythrips and related genera in that the species have the following character states: only one pair of pronotal posteroangular setae, three pairs of ocellar setae, and 8-segmented antenna. However, it is distinguished by the following character states: ocellar setae pair III situated behind mid-point between hind ocelli, abdominal tergites setae S1 situated at outer side of median CPS, abdominal tergites and sternites with broad posteromarginal craspeda, tergite X with prominent MD setae, tergite IX of male (also second instar larva) with no short stout setae medially. Two species are here recognised as sharing these character states, one from Japan and the other from Australia. Etymology. Derived from Greek prefix para and thrips, thripids, in reference to similarity to Oxythrips; gender masculine.

Paroxythrips podocarpi sp. n. (Figs 4–22) Female macroptera (Fig. 4). Distended body length about 1.2 mm. Body almost uniformly yellow, pronotum sometimes with slightly shaded markings; antennal segment I yellow, II yellow or weakly shaded, III–VIII brown but III often slightly paler; fore wings almost uniformly pale brown with clavus slightly darker; all legs yellow. Prominent body setae brown. Head slightly prolonged forward, about 0.7 times as long as wide, with transverse striae behind row of postocular setae, cheeks straight (Fig. 6). Compound eyes with four weakly pigmented facets ventro-laterally. Ocellar setae pair III situated at or slightly behind tangent line of posterior margin of hind ocelli, slightly longer than longitudinal diameter of hind ocelli. Postocular setae arranged in transverse straight line. Antennal segment II without microtrichia, III to IV rounded at each side and without apical neck, IV to V pedicelate, VI straight at each side and apical half tapering, VI longest (Fig. 7). Antennal segments I–VIII length/ width ratio as follows: 0.7–0.8, 1.2–1.3, 2.0–2.2, 2.2–2.3, 1.7–1.8, 2.5, 1.0–1.2, 2.0–2.5. Pronotum about 0.7 times as long as wide, almost smooth medially but with a few transverse sculpture lines near anterior and posterior margins, with 16–17 discal setae, eight setae not longer than discal setae on anterior margin; posteromarginal setae 4 pairs; posteroangular setae 0.2–0.3 times as long as median length of pronotum (Fig. 6). Mesonotum with anastomosing striae throughout; paired CPS present anteromedially. Metascutum with median pair of setae 0.2–0.3 times as long as metascutal median length; CPS absent (Fig. 8). Fore wing costal vein with 20–26 setae, second vein with 6–9 setae. Abdominal tergites II–VII sculptured with anastomosing striae laterally, smooth between median CPS (Fig. 9); tergites VI–VIII with S4 setae reduced to minute; tergite VIII with distinct posteromarginal craspeda lacking posteromarginal comb and convex at middle (Fig. 10); tergite IX with both anterior and posterior pairs of CPS, ms3 slightly shorter than MD setae; sternite VII with S1 and S2 setae much in front of posterior margin (Fig. 11). Ovipositor 1.6–1.7 times as long as pronotal median length. Measurements (holotype female in microns). Distended body length 1100. Head length 86, width across cheeks 123; compound dorsal length 50, width 35; ocellar setae pair III length 1 5–18. Pronotal median length 103, width 143; posteroangular setae length 27. Metascutal median length 55, median setae length 15. Fore wing length 470, width at middle 35. Abdominal tergite IX median length 56; MD setae length 38–40 tergite X length 44. Ovipositor length 160. Antennal segments I to VIII length (width) as follows: 19 (26), 30 (23), 33 (16), 35 (16), 28 (15), 41 (16), 8 (8), 13 (5). Male macroptera (Fig. 5). General structure as in female. Abdominal tergite IX with large posteromarginal craspeda, S1 and S2 setae subequal in length and usually arranged in transverse line, and situated at the posterior margin or slightly displaced to craspeda (Fig. 12); sternal pore plates oval and 3.5–6 µm wide (Fig. 13). Second instar larva. Distended body length about 1.0 mm. Body uniformly yellow (Fig. 14); head with three brown markings, a large marking anteromedially, a small one on posteroinner side of each eye, rarely small ones at base of dorsal surface of head (Fig. 15); pronotum rarely with two small brown markings; abdominal tergite IX usually a transverse dark are at posterior margin not exceed S1 setae; tergite X with a dark area behind CPS (Fig. 21). All body setae small and acute at apices. Head with 4 pairs of small setae dorsally, D3 setae slightly longer than others. Antennae 7-segmented, segments III with annulations but no microtrichia, IV with microtrichia and a long inner sensorium exceed apex of VI, and a small outer sensorium, VI with outer sensorium reaching to apex of VII (Fig. 16). Pronotum with a pair of large smooth areas medially surrounded D1–D5 and D7 setae, sclerotised area at middle weak; setae subequal to length of setae on head, apices acute (Fig. 15). Meso- and metanota covered with longitudinal plaques having no microtrichia, each with a pair of small smooth areas medially, mesothoracic spiracle large and with numerous pores but no distinct facets (Figs 17, 18). Abdominal tergites with all setae acute or blunt at apices, at least not expanded, with about 7 transverse rows of longitudinal plaques, but fewer on IX to X, plaques with microtrichia on VIII to X, but very weak on VIII (Figs 20, 21); tergites II and VIII with spiracles large and transverse having numerous pores but no facets (Fig 19); tergites III–VIII with 3 pairs of setae slightly longer at posterior segments, D3 setae longest on VI–VIII; tergite VIII with about 13 small teeth along posterior margin; tergite IX with D1 setae slightly shorter than D2 setae, and subequal length to D1 setae on tergite X, D3 setae short and situated anterolaterally, distance of median CPS same as interval D1 setae; sternites covered with 8–10 transverse rows of longitudinal plaques having microtrichia posterior margin; sternites III–VIII with three pairs of setae acute at apices, longer at posterior segments (Fig. 22). Type series. Holotype female, Japan, Honshu, Hiroshima Pref., Higashi-hiroshima City, Akitsu-cho, Mitsu, on leaf of Podocarpus macrophyllus [Podocarpaceae], 17.x.2014, W. Ashihara, T. Arai & M. Toyama. Paratypes: Japan, Honshu: 4 females, same data as holotype. 1 female and 1male, same place and plant as holotype, 2.x.2014. 10 females, same place and plant as holotype, 30.x.2014. Hiroshima Pref., Higashi-hiroshima City, Akitsu-cho, 16 females, 16 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 19.vi.2011. Shizuoka Pref., Shizuoka City, Shimizu-ku, Komagonishi, 12 females, 4 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 24.ix.2015. Shikoku: Ehime Pref., Matsuyama City, Shimoidai-machi, 3 females, 2 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 17.ix.2011. Kochi Pref., Kochi City, Asakura, 12 females, 9 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 8.x.2015. Kochi Pref., Nankoku City, Hataeda, 5 females, 2 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 9.x.2015. Kyushu: Tanegashima-Is., Nakatane-cho, 8 females, 3 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 30.viii.2011. Ryukyus: Amami-ohshima Is., Sumiyo-cho, 4 females, 1 male on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 12.vii.2012. Kikai-jima Is., Kikai-cho, 7 females, 2 males on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 3.ix.2011. Okinawa-hontou Is., Tomigusuku-shi, Noha, 1 female, 1male on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 3.ix.2011. The holotype and most paratypes are deposited in TUA. Non-paratypic specimens. Japan, Honshu: Hiroshima Pref., Higashi-hiroshima City, Akitsu-cho, 3 second instar larvae on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 19.vi.2011 [TUA]. Shikoku: Kochi Pref., Nankoku City, Hataeda, 2 second instar larvae on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 9.x.2015 [TUA]. Kyushu: Saga Pref., Ogi-cho, 4 females (mounted on one slide) on P. macrophyllus, 28.vii.1983 [NIAES]. Tanegashima-Is., Nakatane-cho, 2 second instar larvae on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 30.viii.2011 [TUA]. Ryukyus: Kikai-jima Is., Kikai-cho, 6 second instar larvae on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 3.ix.2011 [TUA]. Okinawa-hontou Is., Tomigusuku-shi, Noha, 2 second instar larvae on young leaves of P. macrophyllus, 3.ix.2011 [TUA]. Comments. This species has been recognised as Oxythrips since at least the 1980s by non-thrips researchers, because the pronotum bears only one pair of long posteroangular setae. Adults and larvae of this species are found on young leaves of Podocarpus macrophyllus together with Scirtothrips dorsalis. The larva of these two species are uniformly yellow, but can be distinguished easily by differences of sculpture on the body surface, and the structure of the spiracles (see also, Miyazaki & Kudo, 1986; Hoddle & Mound, 2003). In second instar larva, this species is very similar to a grass-living species, Anaphothrips obscurus (Müller), but the latter species has spiracles with about seven facets having 2–5 internal pores. Etymology. In reference to the host plants of this species.

Paroxythrips agathidis (Morison) comb. n. (Figs 1–3) Oxythrips agathidis Morison, 1941: 204. This species is very similar to the type species described below, but is known only from Australia in association with Agathidis [Araucariaceae]. A brief description of this species is available on the web (Mound et al. 2016), and in addition to the comments in the key it is distinguished from the type species by following character states: in P. agathidis ocellar setae pair III arising at the mid-point between the hind ocelli, the metascutum has CPS, the fore wing second vein has more than 12 setae, the tergal posteromarginal craspeda have teeth laterally (Fig. 1), and the tergite VIII posteromarginal comb complete. Specimens examined. Australia, Queensland: Eudlo, 2 females, damaging new leaves on Agathis robusta, i.2012, DJT1314 (QDPC); Brisbane, Sherwood, 1 male, 14.iii.2002 (QDPC); Brisbane, Dutton Park, 1 female on Agathis sp., 18.xii.2013, K. M. Thomson (QDPC).

We present the results of the study of higher plant spores and pollen in a section of the Levashi Formation near the village of Aimaki. The Hauterivian and Barremian palynological associations were defined on the basis of changes in the taxonomic content of terrestrial plant spores and pollen. The associations are comparable with Hauterivian and Barremian assemblages of various regions of the Caucasus with respect to the composition of major groups and individual taxa. A transition in the vegetation was noted, from the coniferous palynological association of the Hauterivian to a fern association in the Barremian. The predominance of hygrophilous ferns and the presence of lycophytes and representatives of Taxodiaceae and Sphagnopsida in the Barremian (which were nearly absent in the Hauterivian), accompanied by a significant decrease in thermophilic Cheirolepidiaceae and other conifers, indicate a change in climate characterized by an increase in humidity and a decrease in temperature.

Myeloblastosis (MYB) is one of the largest transcribed factor families in plants. To gain an overall picture of the evolution of MYB genes in relict plants, we cloned nine novel MYB genes in Taxodiaceae plants (Taxodium distichum, Taxodium ascendens, Cryptomeria japonica var. Sinensis, Cryptomeria japonica cv. Araucarioides, Cryptomer Japonica, Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Cunninghamia lanceolata, Taiwania cryptomerioides and Glyptostrobus pensilis). The deduced amino acid sequences for MYBs showed that the nine MYB proteins contained two DNA binding domains. The first domain is from amino acid position 29 to 78, wherein three tryptophanes at 33, 53 and 73 were separated by 19 amino acids, respectively. The second domain is from amino acid position 82 to 127, wherein three tryptophanes at 86, 105 and 124 were separated by 18 amino acids, respectively, whereas the first tryptophane at amino acid position 86 is replaced by a phenylalanine. The characterization of these conserved domains at nine MYBs indicated that they all belong to the R2R3-MYB group. The secondary structure analysis showed that α-helix and β-turn are the major motifs of the predicted secondary structure of MYBs. The three dimensional model of each MYB protein showed that the structure is like clip, making it more flexible and mobile. The similarities between the nine MYB proteins in Taxodiaceae were calculated. The highest identical value of 99% is between CjsMYB, CjMYB and CjaMYB, whereas the lowest value of 82% is between TaMYB and ClMYB. According to the phylogenetic tree, the distances between different genera were relatively large whereas those within genera were relatively small. As expected, accessions of the same genus formed a subgroup before being grouped with other genera.

The paper presents the results of the organic geochemical studies of Bulgarian jet samples of early Jurassic and early Cretaceous age from two deposits located within the Moesian platform and the Balkan tectonic zone. Total organic carbon contents (71 and 78% daf) indicate sub-bituminous coalification rank. Moderately high to high sulfur contents (0.8–1.7% daf) support activity of sulfate reducing bacteria. High amounts of volatile matter (53–59% daf) and slightly enhanced HI values (185–249 mg HC/g TOC) argue for organic matter bituminization. The latter is also confirmed by the very low T max values (~ 400 °C), which are interpreted as a result of the release of bituminous substances during the early stages of pyrolysis. Extractable organic matter is consistent with the low maturity and is characterized by high portions of NSO compounds and asphaltenes (> 80%). Hydrocarbons constitute about 10% and are characterized by the predominance of the saturated over the aromatics. The strongly short-chain homologs dominated n -alkanes distributions, with expressed maxima at n -C 17 and n -C 18 , and CPI in the range 1–2, is consistent with the woody origin of the jet. In addition, the low C 29 /C 27 (~ 1) sterane ratios denote possible impregnation of the drift woods with phytoplankton-derived lipids from the host rocks. Low Pr/Ph (0.42–0.65) and Pr/ n -C 17 (0.28–0.43) ratios, as well as high Ph/ n -C 18 (0.4–0.78) ratio outline anoxic conditions of jet formation. Furthermore, the absence of chromans in the jet extracts from the Moesian platform suggests depositional environment with reduced salinity, whereas low di-MTTC/tri-MTTS (0.32) in the sample from the Balkan tectonic zone points to normal marine conditions. The occurrence of pimaranes and α-phyllocladane in the extracts from Nikolaevo jet points to Taxodiaceae or Araucariaceae conifers as possible precursors, whereas the presence of α-cedrane and cuparene in the sample from Lesidren deposit argues for Cupressaceae origin. In addition, triterpenoid biomarkers with lupane and ursane skeletal structures in the Lesidren jet is tentatively interpreted as an impregnation of the conifer drift wood with lipids from pre-angiosperm plants. Results from the bulk and molecular analyses revealed that Bulgarian jet originates from conifer drift wood, deposited under anoxic environmental settings, and subsequently subjected to hydrogenation and biodegradation.

Research on the climate and vegetation of the Cretaceous is fundamental to understanding the present environment. The present study focuses on the Lower Cretaceous Guyang Formation (Inner Mongolia), which yields unique macrofossils and diverse palynological assemblages that are used to understand the palaeoecology. In total, 56 genera are identified in the examined assemblage, which are dominated by spores and pollen of pteridophytes and gymnosperms. The gymnosperm pollen is dominated by Taxodiaceae, which belong to Coniferales, and a large proportion of pollen attributable to the Cycadophyta and Ginkgopsida. The pteridophyte spores are dominated by taxa attributable to the Lygodiaceae and Cyatheaceae. Quantitative analysis based on the geographical distribution of modern plant communities and the Sporomorph Ecogroup (SEG) model, the palynomorph associations are used to infer the presence of a closed coniferous forest dominated by Podozamitales, Picea and Podocarpus with understory vegetation comprising ferns prevailed. The fossil palyno flora indicates a warm and humid subtropical climate during Early Cretaceous of Inner Mongolia.

Three new sesquiterpenoids, 2α-hydroxy-3,3,6α,9β-tetramethyltricyclo[4,3,2(1,4)]undecane (1), 11-acetoxyeudesman-4β-ol (4), and 2α,3β-dihydroxy-4β-methyl-6,8,10-cadinatriene (6), four known sesquiterpenoids (2, 3, 5, and 7), together with eight known diterpenoids (8-15), were isolated from the wood of Cunninghamia konishii. Their structures were determined by detailed analysis of spectroscopic data and comparison with the data of known analogues. Four sesquiterpenoids (1, 4, 5, and 6) and all the diterpenoids (8-15) were evaluated for inhibition of nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages and the results showed that compounds 10 and 15 exhibited moderate inhibitory activities against nitric oxide production.

The present study provides further insight into the composition of polar compounds in the Miocene Maritza-East lignite, Bulgaria. Samples from two coal seams and interbedded claystone layers have been analyzed by geochemical proxies for polar constituents, consisting of n -alkan-2-ones, n -alkanols, n -alkanoic acids, polar sesqui-, di-, and triterpenoids, steroids, hopanoid acids, etc. These series are quantified, correlated vs. depth, and various ratios calculated. Polar diterpenoids predominate in the soluble organic matter. Several new compounds were identified, i.e. 7,11-dehydro-12-oxoabieta-7,9(11),13-triene, salvinolone, and chamaecydins. The preferential contribution of Cupressaceae / Taxodiaceae in the palaeoflora is confirmed by the significant abundance of polar diterpenoids (200–600 μg/g C org ), and is further supported by the presence of chamaecydins (3–9 μg/g C org ). The polar lupane assemblage attests that Betulaceae also was an important input from angiosperm vegetation to the palaeomire. The related new compounds are 24,25-bisnoroxyallobetula-1,3,5(10)-triene and 24,25-bisnorallobetula-1,3,5(10)-triene, which further support this point. This investigation increases the knowledge on floral progenitors and provides further proof of the input from the Cupressaceae / Taxodiaceae or Podocarpaceae families as the most abundant trees in the peat-forming environment of the Miocene Maritza-East Basin.

WOS: 000383959100004, Radiometric and palynological data of the Upper Oligocene-Lower Miocene Soma Formation from the Kalkm-Gonen Basin yield new results related to age and palynological contents. In this study, Upper Oligocene strata from the Daniment and Linfa areas and Lower Miocene strata from the Bengiler area were sampled palynologically and for radiometric dating. The Daniment assemblage, which is older than the Linfa assemblages, mainly contains coniferous and evergreen to deciduous mixed mesophytic forest elements. Relatively high quantities of the altitudinal plants Picea and Abies, indicate a cooler palaeoclimate. The Linfa associations mainly include coniferous and riparian elements. Pollen of the riparian plant Alnus and Taxodiaceae indicative for the swamp forest community was predominant, probably as a result of a high lake level. There is a hiatus during the Oligocene-Miocene transition, probably showing a non-depositional phase and sea-level fall indicating the Mi-1 glaciation event. Higher in the sequence, the Aquitanian Bengiler sediments include high amounts of coniferous forest elements as well as components indicative for the evergreen and deciduous mesophytic forest and also riparian forest and swamp forest. Due to presence of thermophilous taxa Reveesia, Mastixiaceae and Arecaceae, a warm and humid palaeoclimate is inferred according to quantitative analyses using the Coexistence Approach., Dokuz Eylul UniversityDokuz Eylul University [BAP - 2009.KB. FEN.021], This study was supported by research project from Dokuz Eylul University, BAP - 2009.KB. FEN.021.

Critical assessment is given of the fossil conifers (gymnospersm) reported and described from the Upper Triassic to Lower Cretaceous rocks of the Indian sub–continent. Morphology and anatomy of woods (stems) roots, twigs, leaves and fertile structures both male and seed-bearing fructifications and isolated petrified seeds are included in this review. Majority of extinct conifers belong to Podocarpaceae and Araucariaceae. Representatives of Taxodiaceae, Cupressaceae and Taxaceae are also reported in this paper. This account will enhance our knowledge of the Mesozoic vegetation, distribution and kind of forests and in tracing the phylogeny of controversial taxa of extant conifers. Palynology and stratigraphy are not discussed in this paper. A detailed review of literature on Mesozoic conifers of India is given.

An Oxythrips-like new genus and species, Paroxythrips podocarpi, is described from Podocarpus macrophyllus in Japan. An Australian species, Oxythrips agathidis Morison, that is associated with Agathis is transferred to Paroxythrips.

A rich terrigenous plant assemblage was recently excavated from early Tortonian deposits at Messara basin, southern Crete. The macro-remains are perfectly preserved as impressions or carbonized compressions in poorly lithified and locally laminated, blue-green clays with an age of at least 10.5 Ma and thus can be considered as the oldest plant assemblage found in Crete todate. Gymnosperms are represented by the families of Pinaceae (pine needles and winged seeds), Cupressaceae and Taxodiaceae (leafy twings of Taxodium). Besides, 19 different angiosperm taxa of trees and shrubs have been also determined. Fagaceae is the most diversified with foliage of beech and several deciduous and evergreen oaks, while Myricaceae contribute mainly as abundant leaf remains of Myrica lignitum. Accessory elements of evergreen Lauraceae (Daphnogene polymorpha), sclerophyllus shrubs of Buxaceae (Buxus pliocenica) and various deciduous dicotyledonous such as Populus crenata, Liquidambar europaea, Carya minor and Acer pseudomonspessulanum are well documented. Leguminosae is recorded by a significant number of various small leaflet imprints. Therefore, the recovered remains indicate swampy forest habitats dominated by hygrophilic woody plants of Taxodium and Myrica, while in the surrounding plains and slopes a mixed mesophytic forest with a relatively low proportion of evergreen plants occurred in early-Late Miocene times in Crete depicting a moderately humid, warm-temperate nature for the climate.

Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) is an important coniferous tree species for timber production, which accounts for ~40% of log supply from plantations in southern China. Chloroplast genetic engineering is an exciting field to engineer several valuable tree traits. In this study, we revisited the published complete Chinese fir (NC_021437) and four other coniferous species chloroplast genome sequence in Taxodiaceae. Comparison of their chloroplast genomes revealed three unique inversions found in the downstream of the gene clusters and evolutionary divergence were found, although overall the chloroplast genomic structure of the Cupressaceae linage was conserved. We also investigated the phylogenetic position of Chinese fir among conifers by examining gene functions, selection forces, substitution rates, and the full chloroplast genome sequence. Consistent with previous molecular systematics analysis, the results provided a well-supported phylogeny framework for the Cupressaceae that strongly confirms the “basal” position of Cunninghamia lanceolata. The structure of the Cunninghamia lanceolata chloroplast genome showed a partial lack of one IR copy, rearrangements clearly occurred and slight evolutionary divergence appeared among the cp genome of C. lanceolata, Taiwania cryptomerioides, Taiwania flousiana, Calocedrus formosana and Cryptomeria japonica. The information from sequence divergence and length variation of genes could be further considered for bioengineering research.