Some Eocene silicified wood from the Yellowstone "fossil forests" is riddled with small diameter holes previously presumed to have been excavated by wood-boring insects. The holes occur only near the surface of the wood with light brown elongate, solid cylinders, at first thought to be frass-filled channels, occurring in the interior. Thin section analysis reveals isolated groups of calcified cells in otherwise silicified wood. Recent differential weathering of calcite with respect to silica produced the holes or pseudoborings on exposed surfaces. The apparent replacement of calcite by silica and the excellent preservation of fine structures may bear on proposed Tertiary climatic changes and rate of petrification.
The Journal of Paleontology, published by the Paleontological Society, includes original articles and notes on the systematics of fossil organisms and the implications of systematics to biostratigraphy, paleoecology, paleogeography, and evolution. The Journal emphasizes specimen-based research and features high quality illustrations. All taxonomic groups are treated, including invertebrates, microfossils, plants, and vertebrates. The Journal seeks to appeal to a broad international audience, and to publish comprehensive systematic treatments of taxa, which employ modern analytical techniques and have broad evolutionary, environmental, and/or geographic significance. The Journal also publishes review articles, opinion pieces in its "View From the Field" section, comments and replies in response to recent publications in the Journal, and book reviews.
SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology) is an international not-for-profit Society headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Through its network of international members, the Society is dedicated to the dissemination of scientific information on sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleontology, environmental sciences, marine geology, hydrogeology, and many additional related specialties. The Society supports members in their professional objectives by publication of two major scientific journals, the Journal of Sedimentary Research and PALAIOS. Additionally, SEPM produces technical research conferences, short courses, and Special Publications. Through SEPM's Continuing Education, Publications, Meetings, and other programs, members both gain and exchange information pertinent to their geologic specialties.
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