Oligocene Austrocedrus from Tasmania (Australia): Comparisons with Austrocedrus chilensis

Abstract

Austrocedrus is a monotypic Cupressaceae genus with limited distribution in Argentina and Chile. Although its foliage is similar to that of three other Southern Hemisphere Libocedrus-related genera (particularly that of Papuacedrus), its leaf cuticle and ovulate cones are unique. A comprehensive review (via scanning electron microscopy and digital photographs) of the foliage and ovulate and pollen cones of A. chilensis provides a template for the identification of Early Oligocene Tasmanian Austrocedrus macrofossils. Ovulate cone development is also discussed.