Potential of opal phytoliths for use in paleoecological reconstruction

Abstract

Opal phytoliths, inorganic biogenetic plant particles of microscopic size, were investigated to determine the level at which their varied morphology is taxonomically significant. Extraction methods for the isolation of these particles from living plants and from soils were developed to provide maximum preservation of morphological features while remaining simple, rapid, and inexpensive. Extracts were made and microscopically viewed from 30 live specimens, of which 16 were systematically typed in order to develop taxonomic guidelines for their identification in soils. Clear taxonomic differentiation was noted between and within major plant groups with considerable indication that more detailed investigation will yield finer subdivisions. Since opal phytoliths are reported to be a particularly durable fossil found in deposits as far back as Tertiary Age, it appears that opal phytolith analysis can provide paleobotanical information comparable to palynological data in many areas where pollen is absent. When used in conjunction with pollen where present, they should serve to confirm pollen data as well as provide additional botanical data not available in pollen studies.