A review of the genus Protopiceoxylon with emphasis on North American species
Protopiceoxylon Gothan, a genus of Mesozoic wood, is reviewed with special emphasis on three North American species. Two new species of this genus are proposed. These are Protopiceoxylon resiniferous from the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation of Utah and Protopiceoxylon canodense from the Upper Jurassic strata of British Columbia. Protopiceoxylon dacotense from the Lower Cretaceous(?) of South Dakota is redescribed. All species of Protopiceoxylon are compared as to their xylotomy and distribution. Nine species are considered valid. The combination of characters unique for this genus includes the occurrence of only vertically formed resin canals, abietinoid pitting of the rays, and relatively large diameter of the bordered pits on the radial walls of the tracheids. Affinity of the genus with extant Keteleeria is also considered.