The Origins of Angiosperms and their Biological Consequences

An overview of works on the origins of angiosperms and the ecological effects upon terrestrial life of their rapid radiation.

Else Marie Friis (Edited by), William G. Chaloner (Edited by), Peter R. Crane (Edited by)

9780521311731, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 18 May 1989

372 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.1 cm, 0.55 kg

This book was originally published in 1989. The dramatic radiation of the angiosperms towards the end of the Early Cretaceous initiated major changes in terrestrial ecosystems throughout the world. Dramatic changes in the flora and fauna were exemplified by the development of angiosperm-dominated plant communities and the rapid diversification of mammals, birds and insects. Written specifically for use by advanced undergraduate and graduate students, the book presents an overview of works on the origins of angiosperms and the ecological effects upon terrestrial life of their rapid radiation. It will be of particular value to students of palaeobiology and ecology, as well as to those studying evolutionary biology and systematics.

List of contributors
Preface
1. Introduction to angiosperms E. M. Friis, W. G. Chaloner and P. R. Crane
2. The origin of angiosperms J. A. Doyle and M. J. Donoghue
3. Global palaeogeography and palaeoclimate of the Late Cretaceous and Early Tertiary Judith Totman Parrish
4. Mid-Cretaceous to Early Tertiary vegetation and climate: evidence from fossil leaves and woods G. R. Upchurch, Jr and J. A. Wolfe
5. Vegetational consequences of angiosperm diversification P. R. Crane
6. Time of appearance of floral features E. M. Friis and W. L. Crepet
7. The evolution of insect pollination in angiosperms W. L. Crepet and E. M. Friis
8. Interactions of angiosperms and herbivorous tetrapods through time S. L. Wing and B. H. Tiffney
9. Dinosaurs and land plants M. J. Coe, D. L. Dilcher, J. O. Farlow, D. M. Jarzen and D. A. Russell
10. Vegetational and mammalian faunal changes in the Early Tertiary of southern England M. E. Collinson and J. J. Hooker
Classification of plants and animals
Stratigraphic table
Glossary
Index.

Subject Areas: Botany & plant sciences [PST]