The origins of angiosperms are still debated,despite many
years of work by scientistsfrom differing disciplines.The progress
made toward resolving the problem IS reviewed in this book.The
author suggests that the only fruitful method of study isthe total
integrated use of the fossil record,particularly dispersed
palynomorphs·111is includes the use of electron microscopy and
refined data handling to recordthe 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 cutrent classification of living plants.The ideas
presented will initiate discussionbetween professionals and
students of paleontology and plant science on the
widerpossibilities that may clarify the enigmatic origins of the
dominant flowering plantgroups·
目錄:
Preface
lIlustration credits
Part I The setting of the problem
1 0utline history of investigations
2 C urrent 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
……