Characteristics of broadleaved woody phytoliths and their preservation in soils in the mid-subtropical zone of China

Abstract

Background and aimsPhytolith analysis is a promising tool for paleovegetation reconstruction. However, compared with grass phytoliths, there are few studies that have classi ed the phytoliths of trees. Therefore, reliable de nitions of phytolith types in woody plants and studies of representative woody phytoliths in soils are needed to provide an improved basis for reliable phytolith-based vegetation reconstruction. MethodsTo explore the morphology of woody phytoliths and their preservation in soils, we described the phytolith morphology of 60 common broadleaved woody plants in the mid-subtropical zone of China, based initially on anatomical origin, and then on shape and nally on texture. We also for the rst time established an index (R value) to explore the preservation of broadleaved phytoliths in soil in this region. ResultsWe divided the phytoliths of broadleaved woody plants into 6 major types and 36 sub-types. The 6 major types are: epidermal phytoliths, silici ed stomata, tracheid, favose phytoliths, hair, and others. We found some degree of correspondence between different phytolith types and the parent plants. Fagaceae, Lauraceae, Magnoliaceae, Rosaceae, Anacardiaceae and Euphorbiaceae could be clearly distinguished from other families based on phytoliths. Only eight types of broadleaved phytoliths were present in the soils. Elongate attenuate, elongate tenuous psilate, and blocky regulate were better preserved in soils than the other types (elongate attenuate entire, tabular sinuate, hair, sclereid, and favose phytoliths). ConclusionOur results provide an important basis for the further application of phytoliths in paleovegetation reconstruction.