The genus Araucaria – An illustrated overview of its species

The genus Araucaria – An illustrated overview of its species , Tree Species & ID Guides , Verlag Kessel

9783941300637

Verlag Kessel

Hubertus Nimsch

In the present work the phylogeny of conifers regarding the genus Araucaria is briefly addressed and followed by a part about the geographic range of living Araucaria species. A geological timetable and an overview of the continental drift of the prehistoric Gondwana-continent in geological times completes the section.

With the help of a world map the fossil occurrences and the geographic range of living Araucaria species is illustrated.

Next, the comparative description of the Araucaria species is highlighted with the help of a previously unknown and unpublished photo selection, which hopefully might contribute to a better understanding of the genus. The characteristics of the genus and their grouping by sections are quoted from Golte (1993). The genera Agathis and Wollemia which belong to the family Araucariaceae are outlined with text and some illustrations.

Thereafter, all 19 Araucaria species of the world are described in a small text, followed by a distribution map, a brief botanical description, a front image and several special photos. Each species is accompanied by a photo of a sample of understory plants typical for the habitat. Next synonyms and native and, if present, foreign-language names are mentioned. Because New Caledonia is francophone there are only universal terms like "Pin colonnaire" or “Pin de montagne” for all Araucaria species. Terms in English are only known for Araucaria columnaris, German terms are artificial and neither useful nor correct. To avoid irritation these terms are not used. The same is true for the Kanak-clan terms, because there are more than 10 names for only one species.

The species descriptions are followed by some completing remarks about sowing, planting and breeding and a comparison of species regarding plants, seeds and timber features. Furthermore, several explorers and researchers are presented who are acknowledged with Araucaria naming.

Verlag Kessel

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