Abstract
Clayey intraclasts containing leaves preserved as impressions and compressions were collected from the Takutu River channel in the State of Roraima, Brazil. In the present study, 23 leaf fragments are described (morphologically and anatomically) and their taxonomic identity is proposed. These fossiliferous intraclasts were suggested in previous studies as coming from the Boa Vista Formation (Upper Pleistocene–Holocene). With the aim of finding new evidence to support this correlation, X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Laser induced-breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) analysis were performed, comparing the fossiliferous sample with two outcrops from the Boa Vista Formation. The results evidenced the chemical and mineralogical similarity between the fossiliferous intraclasts and both outcrops, suggesting their correlation with the Boa Vista Formation. Taxonomically, the specimens were recognized as fossil representatives of Dilleniaceae Salisb., Byrsonima Rich. ex Kunth (Malpighiaceae), Zanthoxylum L. (Rutaceae), and other six morphotypes. These taxa represent typical elements of the savanna (lavrados) of Roraima. The anatomical-cutillary characters of the mummified leaves indicate the dominance of xeromorphic plants, similar to the predominant woody species in the “lavrado” today, thus suggesting the same climatic-environmental conditions. Keywords: fossil leaves, leaf architecture, cuticular anatomy, angiosperm, Cenozoic.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
