My (amateur) research interest is palaeobotany, focused on macroplants of the Keuper (Ladinian-Rhaetian, Triassic, Southern Germany) and the Neogene (Rhön area, Northern Bavaria). See also my Researchgate-Website.
Geyer, G., Hegna, T.H. & Kelber, K.-P. (2024):
The
End of the ‘Living Fossil’ Tale? A New Look at Triassic Specimens Assigned
to the Tadpole Shrimp Triops cancriformis (Notostraca) and Associated Phyllopods from the
Vosges Region (Eastern France). Papers in Palaeontology, 10: 1-31.
https://doi.org/10.1002/spp2.1589
Kelber, K.-P. (2021):
Makrofloren der Germanischen Trias: Keuper.-
In: Hauschke, N., Franz M. and Bachmann, G.H. (eds.):
Aufbruch in das Erdmittelalter vol. 1, chapter B4, p. 228-248; München (Friedrich Pfeil).
See also
here.
Kelber, K.-P. (2021):
Triopsiden (Crustacea, Notostraca) im Mittleren Keuper (Hassberge-Formation) Frankens.-
In: Hauschke, N., Franz M. and Bachmann, G.H. (eds.):
Aufbruch in das Erdmittelalter, vol. 2, chapter C16, p. 455-462; München (Friedrich Pfeil).
See also
here.
Kelber, K.-P. (2020): Die neogene Flora von Wollbach
zwischen Rhön und Thüringer Wald.- Semana, 35: 55-76; Schleusingen.
PDF file, 2.9 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (2019):
Naiadita lanceolata (Marchantiophyta) from the Middle Triassic (Ladinian) of Germany:
A new reconstruction attempt and considerations on taphonomy.- PalZ,
93: 499-515.
Abstract.
Geyer, G. and Kelber, K.-P. (2018):
Spinicaudata ("Conchostraca", Crustacea) from the Middle Keuper (Upper
Triassic) of the southern Germanic Basin, with a review of Carnian–Norian
taxa and suggested biozones. - PalZ, 92: 1-34.
Abstract.
Kelber, K.-P. (2018): The Coburg Sandstone member (Hassberge Formation, Carnian, Triassic) in Frankonia: The Hahn Quarry near Eltmann. PDF file, in: Pre-Symposium excursion: 13th Symposium on Mesozoic Terrestrial Ecosystems and Biota (MTE 13), July 21-23, 2018, Bonn (unpublished).
Okrusch, M., Kelber, K.-P., Neubert, M. and Friedrich, V. (2016): Gewinnung von Naturwerkstein vor Ort. p. 80-83. In: Hahn, B.; Baumhauer, R., Wiktorin, D. and Stadt Würzburg (eds.): Atlas Würzburg. Vielfalt und Wandel der Stadt im Kartenbild. (Emons Verlag).
Kelber, K.-P. (2015):
5. Die
Makroflora des Lettenkeupers. - p. 51-100.
In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.): Der Lettenkeuper -
Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. - Palaeodiversity Supplement
(Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
!
You may also navigate via
back issues of Palaeodiversity 2015.
Then scroll down to: Table of Contents
"Special Issue: Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern".
Still available via Internet Archive Wayback Machine.
Hagdorn, H., Kelber, K.-P. & Schoch, R. (2015):
15.
Fossile Lebensgemeinschaften im Lettenkeuper.- p. 359-385.
In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.): Der Lettenkeuper -
Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. - Palaeodiversity Supplement
(Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
!
You may also navigate via
back issues of Palaeodiversity 2015.
Then scroll down to: Table of Contents
"Special Issue: Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern".
Still available via Internet Archive Wayback Machine.
K.-P. Kelber and R. Schoch (2015):
18. Lebensbilder
des Lettenkeupers im Wandel der Zeiten. PDF file, in German.
p. 407-413; in: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.):
Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern.
Palaeodiversity, Special Issue (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
!
You may also navigate via
back issues of Palaeodiversity 2015.
Then scroll down to: Table of Contents
"Special Issue: Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern".
Still available via Internet Archive Wayback Machine.
Hagdorn, H. & Kelber, K.-P. (2015):
19.
Kohle, Alaun und Vitriol - Historische Rohstoffgewinnung. - p. 417-426.
In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.): Der Lettenkeuper -
Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. - Palaeodiversity Supplement
(Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
!
You may also navigate via
back issues of Palaeodiversity 2015.
Then scroll down to: Table of Contents
"Special Issue: Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern".
Still available via Internet Archive Wayback Machine.
Kelber, K.-P. (2013):
Zur Geologie der Würzburger Gartenstadt Keesburg.- p. 465-476; In: Schmollinger, E.:
Geschichte und Chronik der Keesburg und ihrer Umgebung.- (K. Triltsch), Würzburg.
PDF file, 14 MB.
Kustatscher, E., Kelber, K.-P., & van Konijnenburg-van Cittert, J.H.A. (2012):
Danaeopsis
Heer ex Schimper 1869 and its European Triassic species.-
Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, 183: 32-49.
Abstract.
H. Süss, H. & Kelber, K.-P. (2011):
Eine neue Art der Morphogattung Baieroxylon Greguss aus dem Keuper
von Franken, Deutschland.- Feddes Repertorium,
122: 257-267.
Abstract.
PDF file, 17 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (2009):
Lebensbilder der Unterkeuperzeit im Spiegel der paläontologischen
Forschung.- Veröffentlichungen Naturhistorisches Museum Schleusingen, 24: 27-52,
Schleusingen.
PDF file, 9 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (2007):
Die Erhaltung
und paläobiologische Bedeutung der fossilen Hölzer aus dem süddeutschen
Keuper (Trias, Ladinium bis Rhätium).-
pp. 37-100; In: Schüßler, H. & Simon, T. (eds.):
Aus Holz wird Stein -
Kieselhölzer aus dem Keuper Frankens.-
(Offsetdruck Eppe GmbH), Bergatreute-Aulendorf.
PDF file, 33 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Okrusch, M. (2006):
Die geologische Erforschung und Kartierung des
Würzburger Stadtgebietes von den Anfängen bis 1925.-
Mainfränkische Hefte, 105: 71-115; Würzburg.
Announcement, Informationsdienst
Wissenschaft.
PDF file, 17 MB.
Okrusch, M., Kelber, K.-P.,
Friedrich, V. & Neubert, M. (2006):
Historische Steinbrüche im
Würzburger Stadtgebiet im Wandel der Zeit.-
Mainfränkische Hefte, 105: 1-70; Würzburg.
Announcement, Informationsdienst Wissenschaft.
Kelber, K.-P. (2005): Makroflora (Die Keuperfloren).- pp. 32-41; In: Beutler, G., Hauschke, N., Nitsch, E. &
Vath, U. (eds.): Deutsche Stratigraphische Kommission, Stratigraphie von Deutschland IV - Keuper.- Cour. Forsch.-Inst.
Senckenberg, 253; Frankfurt am Main.
PDF file, 12 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Nitsch, E. (2005): Paläoflora und Ablagerungsräume im unterfränkischen Keuper
(Exkursion H am 1. April 2005).-
Jber. Mitt. oberrhein. geol. Ver., N.F., 87: 217-253; Stuttgart.
PDF file, 20 MB.
Okrusch, M., Kelber, K.-P. & Neubert, M. (2004): Steinbrüche der Barockzeit im Würzburger Stadtgebiet.- pp. 692-702; pl. 62-63; pp. 953-957; In: Wagner, U. (ed.): Geschichte der Stadt Würzburg.- vol. 2; Vom Bauernkrieg 1525 bis zum Übergang an das Königreich Bayern 1814.- (Theiss-Verlag), Stuttgart.
Kelber, K.-P. (2003): Sterben und Neubeginn im Spiegel der Paläofloren
.- pp. 38-59, 212-215; In: Hansch, W. (ed.):
Katastrophen in der Erdgeschichte - Wendezeiten des Lebens.-
museo 19, Heilbronn.
PDF file, 17 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Okrusch, M. (2002):
Athanasius Kircher retrospektiv:
Pendelschläge geowissenschaftlicher Erkenntnis.- pp. 137-162; In:
Beinlich, H., Vollrath, H.-J. & Wittstadt, K. (eds.): Spurensuche: Wege zu Athanasius Kircher.-
(J.H. Röll) Dettelbach.
PDF download available from
there.
Okrusch, M. & Kelber, K.-P. (2002): Erkenntnisse - Phantasien - Visionen.
Athanasius Kirchers geologisches Weltbild im Lichte heutiger Anschauungen.-
pp. 131-160. In: Beinlich, H., Daxelmüller, C., Vollrath, H.-J. & Wittstadt, K. (eds.):
Magie des Wissens. Athanasius Kircher 1602-1680: Universalgelehrter - Sammler - Visionär.-
(J.H. Röll) Dettelbach.
PDF download available from
there.
Geyer, G., Hagdorn, H. & Kelber, K.-P. (2002): Trias-Exkursion II: Muschelkalk und Keuper in Nord-Württemberg und Unterfranken.- pp. 45-87; In: Niebuhr, B. (ed.): Geo 2002 - Planet Erde: Vergangenheit, Entwicklung, Zukunft. 1.-5.10.2002, Würzburg. Exkursionsführer, Schriftenreihe Deutsche Geol. Ges., 22, Hannover.
Laudatio
on the occasion of the award of the Alberti Prize 2002 for Dr. Lea Grauvogel-Stamm.
Paläontologische Gesellschaft, Ingelfingen, November 29, 2002.
Pdf file, in German.
See also here,
and there.
Kelber, K.-P. (2000):
Zur Pflanzenwelt des Keupers.-
In: Brunner, H. & Hinkelbein, K.: Geol. Kte. Baden-Württemberg 1 : 50 000. Erläuterungen zum Blatt Heilbronn und Umgebung.-
pp. 78-94; (Landesamt für Geologie, Rohstoffe und Bergbau Baden-Württemberg), Freiburg i.Br.
PDF file, 9 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (2000): Paläobotanisch-geologische Exkursion in die Obere Trias Frankens.-
(Exkursion 7; 70. Jahrestagung Paläont. Ges., Coburg 2000). Terra Nostra, 00/4: 120-142;
Berlin.
PDF file,
21 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1999):
Neue Befunde über die Schachtelhalme des Keupers.-
In: Hauschke, N. & Wilde, V. (eds.): Trias - Eine ganz andere Welt, III.14: 355-370;
(Verl. Dr. F. Pfeil), München.
Abstract.
PDF file, 35 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1999):
Triops cancriformis (Crustacea, Notostraca):
Ein bemerkenswertes Fossil aus der Trias Mitteleuropas.-
In: Hauschke, N. & Wilde, V. (eds.): Trias - Eine ganz andere Welt, III.16: 383-394;
(Verl. Dr. F. Pfeil), München.
PDF file,
14 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1998):
Phytostratigraphische Aspekte der Makrofloren des süddeutschen
Keupers.- Documenta naturae, 117: 89-115;
München.
Abstract.
PDF file.
Kelber, K.-P., & van Konijnenburg-van Cittert, J.H.A. (1998):
Equisetites arenaceus from the Upper Triassic of Germany with
evidence for reproductive
strategies.- Rev. Palaeobot. Palynol., 100: 1-26; Amsterdam.
Abstract.
PDF file,
18 MB.
Paper awarded with the
Winfried
and Renate Remy Award 1999
(Paleobotanical Section),
Botanical Society of America.
Kelber, K.-P., Okrusch, M. & Nikel, S. (1997):
Exotische Kristallingerölle aus dem süddeutschen Schilfsandstein
(Mittlerer Keuper, Trias).-
N. Jb. Geol. Paläont., Abh., 206: 93-131; Stuttgart.
Abstract
PDF file,
27 MB.
Kelber, K.-P., & van Konijnenburg-van Cittert, J.H.A. (1997):
A new Rhaetian flora from the
neighbourhood of Coburg, (Germany) - preliminary results.-
Proceedings 4th. Europ. Palaeobot. Palynol. Conf. Heerlen 1994 (EPPC);
Meded. Ned. Inst. Toegepaste Geowetenschappen TNO, 58: 105-113;
Haarlem.
Abstract.
PDF file.
Grauvogel-Stamm, L. & Kelber, K.-P. (1996):
Plant-insect interactions
and coevolution during
the Triassic in Western Europe.-
Paleontologica Lombardia, N. S. 5: 5-23, 31 fig.; Milano.
Abstract, and
PDF file, 29 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Hansch, W. (1995): Keuperpflanzen. Die Enträtselung einer über 200 Millionen Jahre alten Flora.- Museo 11, 157 pp., 300 fig..; Heilbronn.
Martini, E., Rothe, P., Kelber, K.-P. & Schiller, W. (1994): Sedimentäres
Tertiär der Rhön
(Exkursion I am 9. April 1994).- Jber. Mitt. oberrhein. geol. Ver., N. F.,
76: 219-244, 9 fig., 1
Tab., Stuttgart.
PDF file, 19 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1994):
J.L. Schönlein
als Förderer der
paläobotanischen Wissenschaft.- PDF file, 2.4 MB, in German. Beiblatt
(pp. 1-4) zu: Mälzer, G.: Johann Lukas Schönlein (1793-1864) und die Bibliotheca
Schoenleiniana.-Begleitheft der Schönlein-Ausstellung in der
Universitätsbilbliothek Würzburg.
PDF file.
Kelber, K.-P., Franz, L., Stachel, T., Lorenz, V. & Okrusch, M. (1993): Plant
fossils from Gross
Brukkaros (Namibia) and their biostratigraphical significance.- Communs geol. Surv. Namibia,
8 (1992/93): 57-66, Windhoek.
Abstract.
PDF file.
Kelber, K.-P. (1992): Der dreidimensionale Bau der Blattspitzen bei Equisetites arenaceus
(Equisetopsida, Equisetales) aus dem Unteren Keuper (Trias, Ladin).-
In: Kovar-Eder, J. (ed.):
Palaeovegetational development in Europe.- Proc. Pan-European Palaeobot. Conf.Vienna
(PEPC 1991), pp. 289-299, 2 fig., 2 pl.; Vienna.
PDF file, 10 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1990a): Die versunkene Pflanzenwelt aus den Deltasümpfen Mainfrankens vor 230 Millionen Jahren. Makrofloren aus dem Germanischen Unterkeuper.- Beringeria, Sonderheft 1, 67 pp., 100 fig.; Würzburg.
Kelber, K.-P. (1990b): Ein steinernes Herbarium aus Mainfranken.- Info. Bayer. Julius-Maxim.-Univ.
Wzbg., 3/24: 4-6, 4 fig.; Würzburg.
PDF file, 12 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Geyer, G. (1989): Lebensspuren von Insekten an Pflanzen des Unteren
Keupers.- Cour. Forsch.-Inst. Senckenberg, 109: 165-174, 2 pl.; Frankfurt am Main.
PDF file, 15 MB.
Amelingmeier, E. & Kelber, K.P. (1989): Die Rhön: Gesteine - Mineralien - Fossilien.- Texte zur Sonderausstellung im Mineralogischen Museum der Universität Würzburg, 19 pp. (Selbstverlag).
Brunner, H. & Kelber, K.-P. (1988): Eisenerzkonkretionen im
württembergisch-fränkischen
Unterkeuper - Bemerkungen zum fossilen Environment.- In: Hagdorn, H. (ed.): Neue
Forschungen zur Erdgeschichte von Crailsheim.- Sonderbände d. Ges. f. Naturk. in
Württemberg, 1: 185-205, 21 fig., 1 Tab.; Stuttgart.
PDF file, 20 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1988): Was ist Equisetites foveolatus? In: Hagdorn, H. (ed.):
Neue Forschungen zur
Erdgeschichte von Crailsheim.- Sonderbände d. Ges. f. Naturk.
in Württemberg, 1: 166-184, 42 fig.; Stuttgart.
PDF file, 15 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1988): Exkursionspunkt 1: Sandgrube Wollbach bei Bad Neustadt - Die
Taphoflora von Wollbach.- In: Giessner, K., Baumhauer, R.,
Kelber, K.-P. & Rössner, U.:
Führer zur Exkursion C, Rhön und Vorländer. - DEUQUA, 24. Tg., pp. 20-24, fig. 10-12;
Hannover.
PDF file, 4 MB.
Kelber, K.-P., Baumhauer, R., Gregor, H.-J., Hottenrott, M. & Schmidt, K. (1988):
Exkursionspunkt 3: Bauersberg - bei Bischofsheim v. d. Rhön - Fossilführendes
Braunkohlentertiär.- In: Giessner, K., Baumhauer, R.,
Kelber, K.-P. & Rössner, U.: Führer zur
Exkursion C, Rhön und Vorländer.- DEUQUA, 24. Tg., pp. 28-29; Hannover.
PDF file, 1,6 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. & Gregor, H.-J. (1987): Makrofloren aus dem
Tertiär der Langen Rhön: Erste
Ergebnisse von Neuaufsammlungen.- Documenta naturae, 41: 11-13,
2 pl.; München.
PDF file, 7 MB.
Geyer, G. & Kelber, K.-P. (1987): Flügelreste und Lebensspuren von Insekten aus dem
Unteren Keuper Mainfrankens.- N. Jb. Geol. Paläont. Abh.,
174(3): 331-355, 19 fig.;
Stuttgart.
PDF file, 7 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1987): Spirorbidae (Polychaeta, Sedentaria) auf Pflanzen des Unteren Keupers -Ein
Beitrag zur Phyto-Taphonomie.- N. Jb. Geol. Paläont. Abh.,
175(3): 261-294, 36 fig., 2 Tab.;
Stuttgart.
Abstract and
PDF file, 23 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1986): Taphonomische Konsequenzen aus der Besiedelung terrestrischer Pflanzen durch
Spirorbidae (Annelida, Polychaeta).- Cour. Forsch.-Inst. Senckenberg, 86: 13-26, 7 fig., 1
pl.; Frankfurt am Main.
PDF file, 14 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1983a): Schizoneura paradoxa Schimp. & Moug. aus dem Unteren Keuper Frankens.-
Naturw.-Jb. Schweinfurt, 1: 19-33, 4 fig., 2 pl.; Schweinfurt.
PDF file, 32 MB.
Kelber, K.-P. (1983b): Zur Pflanzenwelt des Keupers.- pp. 41-47, pl. 1-2, 1 Tab., In: Rutte, E. & Wilczewski: Mainfranken und Rhön.- Sammlung geol. Führer, 74, 217 pp., 64 fig., 4 pl., 2 Tab.; Berlin-Stuttgart, Gebr. Borntraeger.
Kelber, K.-P. (1980): Blatt- und Fruchtreste aus dem Jungtertiär von
Wollbach, Unterfranken.-Cour.
Forsch.-Inst. Senckenberg, 42: 40-42, 1 fig.; Frankfurt am Main.
PDF file
Kelber, K.-P. (1977): Hungarites strombecki Griepenkerl aus dem mainfränkischen Wellenkalk.-
Aufschluss, 28: 145-149, 3 fig.; Heidelberg.
PDF-file
Kelber, K.-P. (1974): Terebratel/Placunopsiden-Riffe im basalen Hauptmuschelkalk
Unterfrankens.- Aufschluss, 25: 643-645, 3 fig.; Heidelberg.
Blomenkemper, P., Kelber, K.-P. & Kerp, H. (2016):
Cuticular
analysis of conifers from the Keuper (Triassic)
of Franconia, southern Germany. Abstract, p. 219 (starting on PDF page 220).
Abstracts, XIV International Palynological Congress,
X International Organisation of Palaeobotany Conference, Salvador, Brazil.
Blomenkemper, P., Kelber, K.-P. & Kerp, H. (2016):
Kutikularanalyse
von Koniferen aus dem Keuper (Trias)
Frankens. Abstract, starting on PDF page 37.
Abstracts, 87th Annual Conference
of the Paläontologische Gesellschaft e. V.,
Dresden, September 11–15, 2016.
Kelber, K.-P., (2015):
Small
and rigid: some plant taphonomic patterns of the
Triassic liverwort Naiadita lanceolata.
24th International Workshop on
Plant Taphonomy 2015
at the State Museum of Natural History
Stuttgart, Germany,
November 26-27, 2015.
Kelber, K.-P., (2013):
Naiadita lanceolata (Marchantiophyta, Bryophyta)
from the Triassic of Germany.-
"Green planet: 400 million years of terrestrial floras."
Symposium on the occasion of the 70th birthday of Prof. Dr. Johanna H.A. van Konijnenburg-van
Cittert.
Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden (NL), April 17-19, 2013.
See also
here.
Kelber, K.-P., (2005): Beyond the Permian-Triassic extinction events: The highly diverse Lower Keuper flora (Ladinian, Triassic) of southern Germany.- Workshop on Permian - Triassic Paleobotany and Palynology, June 16-18, 2005; Natural Science Museum of South Tyrol, Bolzano, Italy.
Kelber, K.-P., (2004): Die Makrofloren des süddeutschen Unteren Keupers (Ladinum, Trias): Neue Einsichten, Potenziale und Perspektiven.- Jahrestagung, Arbeitskreis Paläobotanik und Palynologie (APP), 20.-22. Mai 2004, München.
Kelber, K.-P., (2001):
Preservation and taphonomy of charcoal from the Upper Triassic of southern Germany.-
Abstract, 12th Plant Taphonomy Meeting, 26th of October 2001, Altlengbach, Austria.
See also
here
Kelber, K.-P., (1999): Der Nachweis von Paläo-Wildfeuer durch fossile Holzkohlen aus dem süddeutschen Keuper.- Abstract, 69. Jahrestagung der Paläontologischen Gesellschaft in Zürich vom 20.9.-26.9.1999; Terra Nostra, 99/8: 41; Zürich.
Kelber, K.-P., (1999): Holzkohlen (Fusit) aus dem süddeutschen Keuper.- 27. Jahrestagung, Arbeitskreis Paläobotanik und Palynologie (APP), 12.-15. Mai 1999, Tübingen.
Kelber, K.-P., (1998): Makrofloren aus dem süddeutschen Keuper: Eine Übersicht.- Abstract (in PDF), 68. Jahrestagung der Paläontologischen Gesellschaft in Berlin vom 6.10.-9.10.1998 (Geo-Berlin 98); Terra Nostra, 98/3: V 163; Cologne.
Kelber, K.-P., (1998): New Triopsids (Crustacea, Notostraca) from the Upper Triassic of Frankonia, Germany.- Abstract; Epicontinental Triassic International Symposium, Halle/Saale, Germany, September 21-23, 1998; Hallesches Jb. Geowiss., Beiheft 5: 85; Halle.
Kelber, K.-P. & van Konijnenburg - van Cittert, J.H.A., (1995): Unterschiedliche Reproduktionsstrategien bei Equisetites arenaceus aus dem fränkischen Unterkeuper (Trias, Ladin).- Abstr. Arbeitskreis Paläobotanik und Palynologie, Dresden.
Kelber, K.-P., (1994): Fossile Equisetales aus dem Unteren Keuper Frankens: Aktueller Wissensstand und Probleme.- Abstr. S 27.01, Deutsche Botanische Gesellschaft, Botanikertagung Bayreuth.
--- (1992): Recognition of phytotaphonomical patterns: an additional tool to taxonomic identification.- Abstr. 4th Int. Workshop on Plant Taphonomy, pp. 4-5; Münster.
--- (1991): Equisetites arenaceus: three-dimensional leaf architecture and a further mode of vegetative propagation.- Abstr. Paneurop. Palaeobot. Conf., p. 16; Vienna.
--- (1989): Brauneisenkonkretionen aus dem Unteren Keuper: Eine reaktivierte
Quelle strukturzeigender Triaspflanzen.- Abstr. 19. Jahrestag. Arbeitskr.
Paläobot. Palynol.
1989; Krefeld.
Kelber, K.-P., (2015):
Small and rigid: some plant taphonomic patterns of the
Triassic liverwort Naiadita lanceolata.
24th International Workshop on
Plant Taphonomy 2015
at the State Museum of Natural History
Stuttgart, Germany,
November 26-27, 2015.
Abstract
Recent findings of Naiadita lanceolata (Marchantiophyta, Bryophyta)
from the Lower Keuper (Erfurt-Formation, Ladinian, Triassic) of Frankonia
(southern Germany) have revealed exceptional plant taphonomic traits.
Delicate leafy axes of the gametophyte, partly with attached gemmae cups
and the sporophyte in situ are preserved as compression and impression
fossils in a structureless mudstone.
These monospecific assemblages retained the three-dimensional non-deformed
architecture of attached leaves, which implies a disperse propagation in
muddy suspension with subsequent embedding. Even dispersed sporophyte
capsules, still organically connected with leaves of a perianth-like
structure of the gametophyte indicate the feature of vertically embedded leaflets.
The more durable sporophyte capsules have also been found in size sorted clusters,
which corroborate their cleistocarpous nature. Isolated capsule fragments also
occur on some bedding planes, scarcely associated with dispersed plant cuticles,
wood debris, conchostracans, ostracods, insect wings, and fragments of the
brachiopod Lingula sp.
In an advanced stage of decay badly preserved axes, leaflets, and broken
sporophyte capsules of Naiadita lanceolata have formed interwoven spherical
accumulations. These fabrics strikingly coincide in those which can be observed
in recent sea or lake ball structures.
Kelber, K.-P. (2015):
5. Die Makroflora des Lettenkeupers.
- p. 51-100.
In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.):
Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den
Dinosauriern. - Palaeodiversity Supplement
(Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
Abstract
Macroplant assemblages from the Lettenkeuper (Lower Keuper, Erfurt Formation;
Middle Triassic, Ladinian, Longobardian) of southern
Germany have been described from a large number of localities since the early
19th century. Although favourable outcrop situations
in previous decades are nowadays reduced to a minimum, intensive sampling
has yielded an additional variety of new plant
fossil taxa.
The Lower Keuper flora in Germany represents a mixed array of palaeophytic floral elements and of modern mesophytic components that emerged for the first time in the Anisian or Ladinian. Lycopsids are represented by Isoetites sp. and Lepacyclotes zeilleri, the latter occasionally in large quantities. Sphenophytes are very prominent genera appearing ubiquitously and in abundance and diversity. Equisetites arenaceus and Neocalamites merianii being the most abundant horsetails, followed by Equisetites conicus, E. macrocoleon, Neocalamites schoenleinii, Schizoneura paradoxa, Echinostachys sp., and Phyllotheca sp. The flora yields also a wide association of Filicales and Pteridosperms, e.g., Danaeopsis marantacea, Symopteris rumpfii, Chelepteris strongylopeltis, Rhacophyllum crispatum, Chiropteris lacerata, Sphenopteris schoenleiniana, Cladophlebis remota, Scytophyllum bergeri, "Sagenopteris" sp., Neuropteridium grandifolium, and Glossopteris-like leaves. Very rare are pinnules of Phlebopteris sp. (Matoniaceae), pointing to a debut of leptosporangiate ferns in the Lettenkeuper. Cycads occur infrequently and include fronds of Pterophyllum robustum, Sphenozamites tener and leaves of Taeniopteris kelberi as well as fertile structures named Dioonitocarpidium pennaeforme. The salient evolutionary feature is the first appearance of the Bennettitales, testified by fronds of Pterophyllum brevipenne. Ginkgophytes and conifers are documented by Sphenobaiera sp., Ginkgo sp., Swedenborgia sp., Willsiostrobus sp., Widdringtonites sp., "Podozamites" sp., and Desmiophyllum imhoffi. Only recently, the bryophyte Naiadita has been discovered in the Albertibank of Franconia. A first description of this early representative of Bryophyta is included.
Peat-forming
plants have produced considerable quantities of biomass, proved by
sporadically appearing lenticular coal seams. Thus, Lower Keuper coals
("Lettenkohle") belonging to the first coals beyond an Early
Triassic global gap in coal formation. The composition of the Lettenkeuperflora
seems to be similar to the flora of the germanotype
Schilfsandstein floral complex (Stuttgart-Formation, Carnian).
In synonymising Lettenkeuper plant genera, a global trend towards uniformisation
of Ladinian-Carnian phytocommunities can be tentatively implied.
Approx. 18 Ma after the devastation of end-Permian
terrestrial ecosystems and subsequent periods characterised by
monotypic Pleuromeia- and Voltzia-floras, the flora of the Lettenkeuper
can be deemed as a reliable touchstone to ascertain biotic
recovery and long term generic transition through Early Triassic time.
Hagdorn, H., Kelber, K.-P. & Schoch, R. (2015):
15. Fossile Lebensgemeinschaften im Lettenkeuper.
- p. 359-385. In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.):
Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. -
Palaeodiversity Supplement (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
Abstract
This chapter aims at reconstructing Lower Keuper palaeocommunities in their
habitats and to elucidate interdependences of plants,
invertebrates, and vertebrates. Four major groups of palaeocommunities are
differentiated: (1) The terrestrial palaeocommunities are
poorly known from transported floral and faunal elements into submersed
depositional environments and rooted soil horizons. Clusters
of insect eggs and nutritional traces on plants indicate animal-plant-interactions.
Small pieces of charcoal give evidence of fires. The
terrestrial reptile record comprises small insectivores and larger carnivores with
the rauisuchian Batrachotomus as the top predator,
while herbivores are still unknown. The other groups of palaeocommunities depend on the
salinity of the water bodies. (2) The freshwater
palaeocommunities are characterized by charophytes, by darwinulid ostracods, by bivalves
(Unionites brevis/Unionites donacinus)
and by amphibians. Here, a low diverse amphibian (Mastodonsaurus/Plagiosuchus/Gerrothorax)
and a high diverse amphibian/
reptile palaeocommunity (Mastodonsaurus, Callistomordax, Kupferzellia, Trematolestes,
choristoderes, and questionable juvenile thalattosaurs)
can be discerned. (3) The three brackish water palaeocommunities are dominated by
invertebrates: Myophoria/Bakevellia,
Lingularia/Euestheria, "Anodonta" gregaria). (4) Among the nearly
marine palaeocommunities
are five bivalve-dominated: Entolium
discites, Pseudocorbula/Bakevellia subcostata, Hoernesia/Bakevellia subcostata with
Placunopsis bioherms in Southern Baden-Württemberg,
Costatoria goldfussi/Bakevellia subcostata, the latter two becoming more diverse
towards the South, and the Central and
North German Modiolus rhomboidalis/Costatoria goldfussi palaeocommunity documenting
the northernmost expansion of the marine
Lower Keuper. One of the two marine vertebrate associations is dominated by diverse
fishes and reptiles plus the most saltwater-
tolerant amphibian, Plagiosternum, and another diverse palaeocommunity without
amphibians. Stromatolites occur in three different
horizons of the Lower Keuper and indicate hypo- or hypersalinar conditions.
Non-quantitative examples of selected invertebrate
dominated palaeocommunities from Northern Württemberg are ecologically
characterised in terms of life habits and shell mineralogy.
Kelber, K.-P. & Schoch, R. (2015):
18. Lebensbilder des Lettenkeupers im Wandel der Zeiten.
- p. 407-413. In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.):
Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. -
Palaeodiversity Supplement (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
Abstract
Since more than 100 years, the rich and well-preserved Lettenkeuper floras and
faunas have induced scientists and inspired artists to
compose reconstructions. These pictures shaped the imagination of
laymen and scientists what Lower Keuper landscapes and their
inhabitants might have been looking like. This article reproduces some
of the most well known of these life reconstructions and evaluates
their scientific accuracy.
Hagdorn, H. & Kelber, K.-P. (2015):
19. Kohle, Alaun und Vitriol - Historische Rohstoffgewinnung.
- p. 417-426. In: Hagdorn, H., Schoch, R. & Schweigert, G. (eds.):
Der Lettenkeuper - Ein Fenster in die Zeit vor den Dinosauriern. -
Palaeodiversity Supplement (Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart).
Abstract
This chapter gives a short overview of the historical Lettenkohle
(Lower Keuper coal) exploitation and the vitriol and alum production
in the 18th and 19th century in Germany. The earliest mines were opened
in 1763 in Gaildorf (County Limpurg, now Baden-Württemberg),
1766 in Crailsheim (Brandenburg-Ansbach, now Baden-Württemberg), and 1767
by J. C. W. VOIGT in Mattstedt (Thuringia). It
was VOIGT, who coined the name Lettenkohle in terms of a stratigraphical
unit. Due to their high clay content, these coals were too poor
for industrial usage. Therefore, all these small mines could only survive
as long as they produced vitriol and alum as well. However, in
none of them this production lasted longer than till the end of the 19th century.
Among palaeontologists, the Gaildorf mine gained fame
because it yielded the first Mastodonsaurus remains.
Kelber, K.-P., (2013):
Naiadita lanceolata (Marchantiophyta, Bryophyta)
from the Triassic of Germany.
"Green planet: 400 million years of terrestrial floras."
Symposium on the occasion of the 70th birthday of Prof. Dr. Johanna H.A. van Konijnenburg-van
Cittert.
Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden (NL), April 17-19, 2013.
Abstract
Among the scarce fossil record of bryophytes Naiadita lanceolata has played a
crucial role due to its completeness of features. Since the profound investigations
of T.M. Harris (1938; 1939), this taxon is deemed to be one of the best known fossil liverworts.
Minute fossils attributed to N. lanceolata
have been recently found in argillaceous intercalations of the basal
Albertibank, Lower Keuper (Erfurt-Formation, Ladinian, Triassic) of Schleerieth, Germany.
The studied Lower Keuper material includes both impression fossils of gametophyte fragments
and compressions of the globose sporophyte. They occur in almost monospecific
assemblages, scarcely associated with dispersed cuticles, wood debris, conchostracans,
ostracods, insect wings and the brachiopod Lingula sp.
Leaves of N. lanceolata without a costa, with rectangular cells and straight walls, are helically attached to the stem. Their shape is basically more lanceolate but become gradually rounder towards the apex. Stem fragments show attached gemma cups of conical shape and lobed margin. Some leafy gametophyte axes are terminated by sporophytes in situ, born in a perianth-like structure, composed of four to five leaves. Even dispersed sporophytes are still organically connected with leaves, conveying the impression of a winged reproduction structure, which is matter-of-factly a plant taphonomic feature. The newly discovered N. lanceolata impression/compression fossils from the Lower Keuper of Schleerieth are the stratigraphically oldest founds reported to date.
Harris, T.M. 1938. The British Rhaetic Flora. - British Museum (Natural History),
London. 84 pp.
Harris, T.M. 1939. Naiadita, a fossil bryophyte with reproductive organs.
Annales Bryologici 12: 57-70.
Kelber, K.-P., (2004), Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
Die Makrofloren des süddeutschen Unteren Keupers
(Ladinum, Trias): Neue Einsichten,
Potenziale und Perspektiven
Jahrestagung,
Arbeitskreis Paläobotanik und Palynologie (APP),
20.-22. Mai 2004, München.
Abstract
Wissenschaftsgeschichtlich gehören die fossilen Pflanzenreste aus dem Unteren Keuper
(Langobardium, Ladinium, Trias) zu den am längsten bekannt gewordenen Makrofloren Europas.
Von zahlreichen Fundorten liegen in großer Fülle fossile Makropflanzenreste vor, unter
denen die Equisetales dominant vertreten sind. Die z.T. strukturbietend erhaltenen
Pflanzen liefern in besonderer Weise Einsichten zur Pflanzentaphonomie, terrestrischen
Paläoökologie und zur Koevolution der Tier und Pflanzenwelt. Ein neuer Blickwinkel zur
Bewertung der germanotypen Unterkeuperfloren ergibt sich aus der Berücksichtigung des
permo-triadischen Massenaussterbens und den damit verbundenen Auswirkungen ("fungal spike",
"global coal gap", Phase der Re-Konsolidierung). Die temporär auftretenden kleinen Kohleflöze
im Unteren Keuper gehören zu den ersten Kohlebildungen nach einer
weltweiten Phase aussetzender Kohlebildung in der Unteren Trias.
Die Paläovegetation zur Zeit des Unteren Keupers war keinesfalls nur eine monotypische Florengemeinschaft der Schachtelhalmgewächse, sie beherbergte vielmehr neue Pflanzengruppen, unter denen die Gymnospermen einen erheblichen Anteil einnahmen. Das Florenbild ist geprägt durch die Koexistenz von paläophytischen Pflanzentaxa, die in ihrer Entwicklungsgeschichte bis zu dem Florenwechsel Palaeophytikum/Mesophytikum zurückreichen und durch moderne mesophytische Florenelemente, die durch ihr erstmaliges Erscheinen im Unteren Keuper gekennzeichnet sind oder nur kurze Zeit vorher, im Oberen Buntsandstein, zum ersten Mal aufgetreten sind. Neufunde von unbekannten Pflanzenorganen in den letzten Jahre weisen auf die Existenz weiterer noch unbekannter Pflanzen hin; offensichtlich wurden die Pflanzenlagerstätten des Unteren Keupers bislang noch nicht erschöpfend besammelt. Weil einige der in der älteren Literatur schon beschriebenen Pflanzenfossilien in neueren Florenbearbeitungen unter Nichtbeachtung der nomenklatorischen Regeln neu benannt worden sind, herrscht für die fossilen Makropflanzenreste aus dem Unteren Keuper zur Zeit noch ein relativ unbefriedigender taxonomischer Bearbeitungsstand. Vorläufige Vergleiche lassen einen eher kosmopolitischen Florencharakter für den Zeitraum des oberen Ladiniums und Karniums erkennen.
Die erreichte Evolutionshöhe spiegelt sich bei den Lycopodiales durch den Wandel von den Pleuromeiales
zu den Organresten der Gattung Annalepis wieder. Vertreter der modernen Farne waren bisher nur ab dem
Schilfsandstein bekannt; durch einen Einzelfund von Phlebopteris (Matoniaceae) ist das Debüt der
leptosporangiaten Farne schon in der Zeit des oberen Ladiniums dokumentiert. Die wichtigste biologische
Innovation in der Unterkeuperflora ist jedoch das erstmalige Erscheinen der Bennettiteen, durch die
sterile Belaubung der Gattung Pterophyllum sicher bezeugt.
Laudatio
on the occasion of the award of the Alberti Prize 2002 for Dr. Lea Grauvogel-Stamm.
Paläontologische Gesellschaft, Ingelfingen, November 29, 2002.
Pdf file, in German.
See also here,
and there.
Kelber, K.-P., (2001), Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
Preservation and taphonomy of charcoal
from the Upper Triassic of southern Germany
The 12th Plant Taphonomy Meeting, Altlengbach near Vienna,
Austria, 26th of October 2001.
Abstract
Fossil charcoal (fusain), preserved in fluvial, lake and peat sediments have been yielded from the Erfurt-Formation (Lower
Keuper, Upper Ladinian), Stuttgart-Formation (Schilfsandstein, Carnian), Haßberge-Formation (Coburger Sandstein, Carnian?
Norian?) and the Exter-Formation (Rhaetian) of southern Germany. Broken chunks of charcolified wood, associated with
microbial mats also occur in chert beds of the Trossingen-Formation (Knollenmergel, Norian) from the Mainhardter Wald in Württemberg.
Fractured cubic charcoal pieces in size up to 3 x 3 x 2 cm have been resistant to compression and are three-dimensionally
preserved. These specimens are black and brittle, with silky luster. They display porosity from form of original cells.
SEM and reflective microscopy of cell walls shows clear evidence of cell wall homogenisation. Fluvial transportation is
well documented by rounded charcoal pieces.
The superb preservation achieved by charcolification enables exceptionally wood detail analysis, e.g. in revealing
uniseriate separate bordered pits and pit aperture characteristic in cross-field pits. So far as microscopically
scrutinized, all wood belongs to the genus Dadoxylon ENDLICHER. Growth rings in secondary wood indicate a degree of seasonality.
The charcolified wood remains, sourced from fire prone coniferopsid upland forests, suggest that
wildfire was an important environmental factor in germanotype Keuper ecosystems. Abundant quantities
of charcoal together with Semionotus bergeri and other fish remains from the Coburger Sandstein of
Ebelsbach (northern Bavaria) are interpreted as the result of a local catastrophic wildfire. Erosion after
wildfire might have induced nutrient flux into the water body. Then eutrophic processes have led to low
oxygen levels and triggered out massive fish kill.
Kelber, K.-P., (1999, Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
Neue Befunde über die Schachtelhalme des Keupers.-
In: Hauschke, N. & Wilde, V. (eds.): Trias - Eine ganz andere Welt, III.14: 355-370;
(Verl. Dr. F. Pfeil), München.
Abstract
Horsetails are the prevalent floral elements in Lower
Keuper (Ladinian) and Schilfsandstein (Carnian) taphofloras of
the Upper Triassic in Central Europe. Recently discovered details of Equisetites arenaceus
include: cuticles, the three-dimensional architecture of the leaf segments, permineralized
roots, spores in situ and autochthonous stem casts. A new reconstruction is given of the strobiliferous
branches. An additional mode of vegetative reproduction is documented by adventitious roots
at the nodes of slender branches.
In Neocalamites merianii, whorls of leaves are situated at the base of branches on the main stem, and permineralized tissue has been observed for the first time. Equisetites macrocoleon and E. conicus have been found in the Lower Keuper for the first time, but are rarely associated with Schizoneura paradoxa and Phyllotheca sp.
The phyto-taphonomic overprint
on the plant fossils can be exceptionally characteristic, and is in many cases limited to
distinct plant groups. Patterns of selective destruction may be quite typical,
as well as distortion caused by
desiccation on fragments of Neocalamites merianii bark
and Equisetites arenaceus leaf sheaths.
Herbivory in the Lower Keuper ecosystem is shown by feeding traces on
Schizoneura paradoxa leaves. Light is shed on animal-plant interactions by
encrustations by Spirorbis, subaquatically
attached clusters of
insect eggs, and other scarlike imprints on leaf sheaths of Equisetites arenaceus, and on the
bark of Neocalamites merianii.
Kelber, K.-P. (1987): Spirorbidae (Polychaeta, Sedentaria) auf Pflanzen des Unteren Keupers - Ein Beitrag zur Phyto-Taphonomie.- N. Jb. Geol. Paläont. Abh., 175: 261-294.; Stuttgart.
Abstract:
A rich thanatocoenosis of land plants from the Ladinian of Ochsenfurt
(southern Germany) illustrates the differential taphonomic durability of
plant materials. Their encrustation by worm tubes further suggests that
they lasted in the submersed stage longer then comparable modern plant
remains, while the euytopic nature of Spirorbis makes it unsuitable as a
paleoenvironmental indicator.
Zusammenfassung:
Aus dem Unteren Keuper (Trias, Ladin) von Ochsenfurt
(Süddeutschland) werden Landpflanzenreste vorgestellt, auf denen sich Abdrücke,
seltener auch die pseudomorph umgewandelten Gehäusefragmente von Spirorbis befinden.
Vom Fundort werden Beobachtung zur Stratigraphie, zur Fossilführung und zum
Sedimentationsgeschehen mitgeteilt. Die Merkmale der Spirorbis-Wohnröhre - insbesonders
der Skulptur - werden beschrieben, zusammen mit Hinweisen über den Ablauf der
Fossildiagenese. Es konnten mehrphasige Besiedelungsfolgen
festgestellt werden. Eine Übersicht über die Biologie und Ökologie der rezenten
Spirorbidae sowie ein Vergleich mit triadischen Spirorbis-Vorkommen zeigt auf,
daß die Beurteilung des fossilen Environments - gestützt auf Funde der Wohnröhren
von Spirorbis - nicht möglich ist.
Ausgangspunkt für weitergehende Schlußfolgerungen zur Pflanzentaphonomie
ist die Tatsache, daß die etwa sechsmonatige Baudauer der Spirorbis-Wohnröhren
bis zur adulten Größe unter Berücksichtigung des aktualistischen Prinzips mit
einer ununterbrochenen submersen Verweildauer der Pflanzensubstrate gleichgesetzt
werden kann. In diesem Zeitraum waren alle Voraussetzungen eines Ausleseprozesses
gegeben, sowohl durch den mikrobiologischen Zerfall als auch durch biostratinomische
Wirkungsweisen.
Kelber, K.-P., (1999), Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
Der Nachweis von Paläo-Wildfeuer durch fossile Holzkohlen
aus dem süddeutschen Keuper.-
Abstract, 69. Jahrestagung der Paläontologischen Gesellschaft
in Zürich vom 20.9.-26.9.1999; Terra Nostra, 99/8: 41; Zürich.
Abstract
Aus vier Zeitscheiben der Oberen Trias Süddeutschlands konnten durch langjährige
Aufsammlungen fossiler Pflanzenreste episodisch auch fossile Holzkohlen geborgen
werden. Isolierte Stücke von kubischer oder durch Transporteinwirkung abgerundeter
Gestalt bis zu 3 x 3 x 2 cm entstammen dem Rhät von Heilgersdorf, dem Coburger
Sandstein (Karn?/Nor?) von Eltmann und dem Ebelsbachtal, dem Schilfsandstein (Karn)
von Zeil und Kirchschönbach sowie dem Unteren Keuper (Oberes Ladin) von Schleerieth.
Alle Funde geben sich schon makroskopisch durch ihren seidigen Glanz, ihr poröses Gefüge und durch ihren spröd-splitterigen Zerfall als Holzkohlen (Fusit, charcoal, fusain) zu erkennen. Die mikroskopisch näher untersuchten Proben gehören zur Gattung Dadoxylon. Im Auflicht, besonders aber unter dem REM, lassen sich sowohl die unverfüllten Tracheiden (teilweise mit ausgeprägten Zuwachszonen), aber auch die vorzüglich erhaltenen Markstrahlen, Hof- und Kreuzungsfeldtüpfel gut erkennen. Kollabierte Tracheiden zeigen typische "Bogenstrukturen". Von besonderer Relevanz sind die durch den Vorgang der Pyrolyse homogenisierten Tracheidenwände.
Die neu entdeckten Holzkohlenfunde bezeugen Wildfeuer in den Ökosystemen der
germanotypen Oberen Trias. Sie sind deshalb ein Dreh- und Angelpunkt für
weiterführende phytotaphonomische und paläoökologische Überlegungen, vor allem
in Hinblick auf die komplexen ökodynamischen Auswirkungen solcher Vegetationsbrände.
Kelber, K.-P. (1998), Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
New Triopsids (Crustacea, Notostraca) from the Upper Triassic of
Frankonia, Germany
Abstract; Epicontinental
Triassic International Symposium, Halle/Saale, Germany, September 21-23, 1998; Hallesches
Jb. Geowiss., Beiheft 5: 85; Halle.
Abstract
Triops cancriformis minor, initially described in 1937 by Trusheim (Palaeont. Z. 19: 198) from the Upper Triassic (Norian) of Koppenwind (Frankonia, Germany) has been regarded as an outstanding case of longevity. Owing to its exceptionally preserved soft-part morphology, these finds have been deemed as conspecific with the extant tadpole shrimp Triops cancriformis. Hence, this taxon is supposed to be the longest existing species on earth. Unfortunately, all the invaluable Trusheim material, except a single head shield impression ("carapace") appear to be lost.
A targeted campaign prospecting for fossil plant deposits in the Coburger Sandstein (Carnian) near Ebelsbach (Frankonia, Germany) has yielded a new fossil lagerstaette of notostracans. Hundreds of flat impressions of triopsid head shields and some abdominal remains, caudal rami and intact specimens have been excavated, associated with conchostracans, fish and megafloral remains. The fossils occur in laminated clayey shale from a 0.5-2 m thick lacustrine bed intercalated in the Coburger Sandstein fluvial channel and floodplain sequence. Ichnopodichnus ichnofauna, most likely produced by notostracan branchiopods, also occur in the same locality, but not within the notostracian beds.
Measurements on head shields and intact specimens have been carried out. In their
size range, the newly excavated triopsid population exceed comparable occurrences
from the Upper Triassic (Fig. 1). Based on the shape of the telson, all intact specimen
belonging to the genus Triops. Although most of the head shield impressions probably
represent exuviae, distinctive features e.g. the combined eyes and the dorsal organ,
are visible in many specimens. Taphonomically distinguishing marks are the gut cast
preservation and the peculiar folded marginal head shield zones. The new fossil
triopsids from the Coburger Sandstein would also appear to display no profound
differences to the morphologically similar Triops cancriformis.
Fig. 1: Size range variation of triopsids from the Coburger Sandstein from Frankonia, Germany.
a) Parameters for the measurements.
b) Head shield width versus head shield length.
Dotted lines represent data from Trusheim (1937) and Gore & Traverse (1986, J. Paleont. 60: 1086).
c) Intact specimens, anterior/telson length versus head shield length.
-
Kelber, K.-P. (1998), Institute of Mineralogy, University of Würzburg:
Phytostratigraphische Aspekte der Makrofloren des süddeutschen
Keupers.-
Documenta naturae, 117: 89-115;
München.
Abstract
Four prominent fossil macroplant zones can be distinguished in the Keuper
(Upper Triassic) of Southern Germany: Lower Keuper Flora ("Lettenkeuper",
Ladinian), Schilfsandstein Flora (Carnian), Coburger Sandstein Flora
(Carnian) and the Rhaetian Flora. Only a few fossil plant
remains from the Gipskeuper (Carnian) and the Stubensandstein/Burgsandstein
(Norian) support the present state of palaeobotanical knowledge.
Patterns in vascular land plant diversification of the Keuper are characterized by distinctive taxa that first appeared in the Triassic (modern mesophytic floral elements) and some survivors from the Palaeozoic (palaeophytic floral elements).
Lower Keuper and Schilfsandstein taphofloras from many localities in Southern Germany are mainly represented by horsetails of which Equisetites arenaceus forms the most dominant floral component. Palaeophytic floral elements are the equisetalean genera Schizoneura and Phyllotheca, the marattialean fern Danaeopsis, "Voltzia"-type conifers, the cycads and some Pteridospermopsida, particularly Lepidopteris and its fructifications. The salient evolutionary feature is the appearance of Bennettitales as testified by Pterophyllum from Lower Keuper and later floras, and culminating in the Schilfsandstein Flora. Modern leptosporangiate ferns of the genera Dictyophyllum and Clathropteris (Dipteridaceae) occur in the Schilfsandstein Flora for the first time. New finds indicate that conifers became highly diverse in the Coburger Sandstein plant beds. The sparsely distributed Rhaetian floras display a major shift to modern mesophytic floral composition. This flora includes Phlebopteris, Pachypteris ["Thinnfeldia"], Umkomasia, Nilsonia, Schizolepis, Stachyotaxus, and Palissya. "Voltzia"-type conifer elements and the peltasperm Lepidopteris disappear at the end of the Triassic.
New finds, especially from the Lower Keuper Flora (Schizoneura, Phyllotheca, Linguifolium, reticulate venation pattern, ?"Glossopteris", ?"Sagenopteris") suggest more uniform floral components between Euramerica and Gondwana than previously assumed. Phytostratigraphical work on macroplants in the Keuper Flora of Southern Germany is currently handicapped by insufficient taxonomic research as well as sampling deficiency for many Keuper sequences.
Concerning the evaluation of the end-Triassic floral mass
extinction event and the subsequent vegetational recovery a
"golden spike" situation is located adjacent to Coburg and Bayreuth
in Northern Bavaria. Plant bearing localities of the former
indistinguishable "Rhät-Lias-Grenzschichten" now have been properly defined as the
Rhaetian and the successive Liassic plant beds on sedimentological and
palynological grounds.
Obviously there is no disruption or decline in species diversity neither
in Rhaetian nor in Liassic
taphofloras in this area.
Kelber, K.-P., & van Konijnenburg-van Cittert, J.H.A. (1998):
Equisetites arenaceus from the Upper Triassic of Germany with
evidence for reproductive
strategies.-
Rev. Palaeobot. Palynol., 100: 1-26; Amsterdam.
Abstract
In situ triplet groups of asymmetrical ellipsoidal strobili of Equisetites arenaceus
in different stages of maturity, borne at the end of straight equisetalean branches,
are described from the Keuper (Upper Triassic) of southern Germany. Apart from the organization
of the strobili, spores in situ are also described. The strobili are compared to other equisetalean
strobili with in situ spores and to extant Equisetum material. An additional mode of vegetative
reproduction by shed twigs indicating adventitious roots is proven. In authochtonous situations,
dense packages of shed twigs built up patches of newly sprouted rhizome-layers. Moreover, we include
Equisetites elegans Kräusel 1959 in E. arenaceus (Jaeger)Schenk
and give an emended diagnosis for the species.
-
Kelber, K.-P., Okrusch, M. & Nikel, S. (1997):
Exotische Kristallingerölle aus dem süddeutschen Schilfsandstein
(Mittlerer Keuper, Trias).-
Exotic Crystalline Pebbles from the Schilfsandstein (Middle Keuper;
Triassic) of Southern Germany.-
N. Jb. Geol. Paläont., Abh., 206: 93-131; Stuttgart.
Abstract
At the Leippersberg Hill near Kottspiel (Northern Württemberg, Germany), the basal
part of the Upper
Triassic Schilfsandstein (Stuttgart group, km2) is developed as a conglomeratic sandstone
that contains a variety of reworked rock fragments together with fragments of permineralized
wood and sauropod bones. For the first time, exotic clasts of metamorphic and igneous rocks
have been recorded, i.e. phyllites to quartz pyllites, albite gneisses and
aplitic gneisses as well
as cataclastic granites, tonalites and granite porphyries.
Microprobe analyses revealed that the phyllites and albite gneisses contain phengitic white micas testifying to metamorphism under elevated pressures. Combination of the garnet-phengite geothermometer with phengite geobarometer, applied to one sample of albite gneiss, yielded temperatures of 480-500 ºC and pressures of 13-14 kbar. A distinctly lower P-T combination of about 6 kbar and 330 ºC was estimated for an aplite-gneiss sample. These findings indicate a considerable regional extent or a marked metamorphic field gradient for the source region of the exotic clasts.
Several modes of long distance transport mechanism are discussed. Among these, we regard
a transportation of entrapped rocks within root structures of floating trees as the best
explanation, whereas a transport as gastroliths in vertebrates seems rather unlikely. Judging
from the dominating Schilfsandstein river system, Fennoscandia or, more probably, the north-
western part of the Bohemian Massif can be considered as possible source areas.
-
Kelber, K.-P., & van Konijnenburg-van Cittert, J.H.A. (1997):
A new Rhaetian flora from the
neighbourhood of Coburg, (Germany) - preliminary results.-
Proceedings 4th. Europ. Palaeobot. Palynol. Conf. Heerlen 1994 (EPPC);
Meded. Ned. Inst. Toegepaste Geowetenschappen TNO, 58: 105-113;
Haarlem.
Abstract
Preliminary results from a new Rhaetian flora from Heilgersdorf near Coburg (Germany) are
presented. Almost 20 natural taxa have been recognized so far, mostly on genus level.
Specific determinations, possibly including new species, have still to be carried
out. Genera of
which one or more species have been recognized so far
are: Lepidopteris including its male
fructification Antholithus and the female Peltaspermum;
Equisetites, Rhizomopteris, Todites,
Cladophlebis, Phlebopteris, Dictyophyllum, Pachypteris
(possibly with an Umkomasia),
Nilsonia, Pseudoctenis, Pterophyllum, Taeniopteris, Stachyotaxus,
Palissya, Schizolepis and
Desmiophyllum. Apart from the fructifications mentioned above,
several male and female
strobili and a few types of seeds have been found of which the
affinity remains to be detected.
Coal as well as fusain and permineralized wood have also
been recovered. This flora is the
most diverse Rhaetian flora so far found in the Germanic Basin.
-
Grauvogel-Stamm, L. & Kelber, K.-P. (1996):
Plant-insect interactions
and coevolution during
the Triassic in Western Europe.-
Paleontologica Lombardia, N. S. 5: 5-23, 31 fig.; Milano.
Abstract
A review of the Triassic plant-insect interactions of western Europe is presented
with some new interpretations. Several new interactions are described and discussed.
This study is based on the analysis and comparison of three Triassic ecosystems
which are rich in both plant and insect remains: the Grès à Voltzia
(Upper Buntsandstein) of the Vosges (France) which is early Anisian, the Lower
Keuper of Franconia (Germany) and the Lettenkohle of Alsace (France) which are both
Upper Ladinian.
Four kinds of interactions could be identified: feeding traces on plants, relations between the laying of insect eggs and host plants, parasitic relationships of galls and other growth abnormalities as well as a new fossil example of mimicry. A comprihensive account of plant-aided insect reproductive processes is given for the first time, which greatly extends the variety of fossil plant-insect interactions previously reported.
Among the numerous results, the oviposition habits
of the Protodonata are demonstrated, showing that they inserted their eggs in the
plant tissues like the present-day endophytic Odonata. The numerous traces of their
eggs in the Ladinian horsetails of Franconia (Germany) suggest moreover that
this group,
which was particularly flourishing in Permo-Carboniferous times, was still
well established in the Triassic. The discovery of mimetic
Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera) wings having an angiosperm-like venation and
a leopard-like colouring led us to inquire into the significance for the
process of plant-insect co-evolution.
On the other hand, the floristic change in the Ladinian, with the emergence
of the Cycadopsida, and the simultaneous appearance of numerous
feeding traces on these new plants are evidence in favour of such a process.
All these observations illustrate the dynamics of the Triassic ecosystems.
-
Kelber, K.-P., Franz, L., Stachel, T., Lorenz, V. & Okrusch, M. (1993):
Plant
fossils from Gross
Brukkaros (Namibia) and their biostratigraphical significance.-
Communs geol. Surv. Namibia,
8 (1992/93): 57-66, Windhoek.
Abstract
A small collection of newly discovered plant macrofossils from Gross Brukkaros
(Namibia) is examined in order to attempt a biostratigraphic age-bracketing. Two
conifer shoots of Brachyphyllum sp. indicate a Permian or post-Permian age with respect to
the first apperance of this form genus. The composition of a probable dicotyledonous
leaflet and a most likely angiospermous flower as well as carpofossils which are very similar
to those of angiosperms suggest a Cretaceous or post-Cretaceous age.
xxx,
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