Revision of the genus Cunninghamites (fossil conifers), with special reference to nomenclature, taxonomy and geological age

Abstract

The genus Cunninghamites was originally described for fossil sterile foliage. The inclusion of fertile material, and the debate about the nomenclature and taxonomy of Cunninghamites have initiated its revision. Revision has shown that only six species undoubtedly belong to Cunninghamites. Ovuliferous cones of Cunninghamites oxycedrus and Cunninghamites squamosus have been added to the diagnoses of these species. Based on the ovuliferous cones, Cunninghamites belongs to the Cupressaceae s.l. After revision of Cunninghamites, it can geographically be confined to the Northern Hemisphere, mainly Europe and North America. The stratigraphic range of the genus now starts at the Valanginian–Hauterivian and can be extended upwards to the Maastrichtian.