Abstract
Chemical studies of various modern and fossil spore walls of gymnosperms, angiosperms, pteridosperms, fungi and algae show the majority to contain sporopollenin now known to be derived from carotenoid esters by an oxidative polymerisation process. Chemical studies on microfossil walls and associated insoluble organic matter (kerogen) present in sediments up to 3,400 to 3,700 m.y. old suggest that these may have a common identity with sporopollenin of modern spore exines. After deposition in sediments, spore exines undergo microbiological and chemical alteration associated with variation of temperature, time and pressure. Examination of the thermal changes occurring in spore exines is presented including stable carbon isotope studies, and the potential of sporopollenin as a major progenitor of natural petroleum is discussed.
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.
