There is a critical need and demand for specific, up-to-date information on taxonomy and characteristics of fossil taxa and their importance in understanding angiosperm evolution. This project will specifically place information in the hands of individuals, families, business people, scientists, primary and secondary school educators, and others in a form that will be more accessible, complete, and easy to use (in the case of identifying fossil plants), than any reference has ever been in the past.

This research is relevant to one of the greater mysteries of basic evolutionary biology: angiosperm origins and success. These plants are critical to our ecosystem and agriculture.

Extensive analysis of critical fossils has illuminated the history of flowering plants and established basic methodologies for analyzing fossil and modern data. In addition, we have a conservative determination of timing in angiosperm evolution. Knowledge of timing has significant ecological evolutionary implications.

At least two jobs have been created in association with this project. This project has also benefited at least three members of targeted minorities with respect to education and/or career advancement. This basic research has important implications for the evolution and origin of major agricultural crops, including grains (Gramineae) and vegetables (including Solanaceae). This information also illuminates the history of many horticulturally significant taxa and is of wide interest, as illustrated by the number of visits to the associated websites.

paleobotany/plant evolution

• Other Federal non-USDA (e.g., NSF, NIH, DOA, DOD)
• none

• Kevin Nixon
• Alejandra Gandolfo
• Jennifer Svitko