Populus in late-Pleistocene pollen spectra

• Published in: Canadian Journal of Botany
• Main Author: Mott, R. J.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1978
• Subjects: Plant Science; Canada; Tundra
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/b78-113; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/b78-113

Populus profiles in pollen diagrams have often been ignored or given little attention because of problems with identification and preservation. Modern surface spectra aid in the interpretation of fossil assemblages, but exact modern analogues have not been found. Recent studies from several localities in Canada have revealed peaks in Populus pollen in late-Pleistocene and (or) early-Holocene spectra, and relative and absolute frequencies indicate that Populus may have played a significant role in the transition from tundra to forested conditions.