Estimating paleoenvironments using ecological niche models of nearest living relatives: A case study of Eocene Aesculus L.

摘要: Past climates experienced by fossil plant species have often been inferred based on the environmental requirements of their evolutionarily nearest living relatives (NLR). Here we combined paleoclimatic estimation using NLRs with ecolological niche modeling (ENM) and demonstrated approach inferring Eocene environment Aesculus L. (Hippocastanoideae, Sapindaceae), a genus woody eudicots extant generally preferring temperate climates. Specifically, applied ENM-NLR to four floras in which fossils are known occur: McAbee Princeton (British Columbia), Republic (Washington State), Spitsbergen (European Arctic Circle). Additionally, used estimate whether paleoenvironmental conditions were suitable for at fifth flora, Copper Basin (Nevada), where record is less clear. We generated models all Genetic Algorithm Rule Set Production georeferenced data from Global Biodiversity Information Facility Bioclim parameters. For each best individual summarized into composite community models, taken represent climatically analogous modern communities infer paleoclimates localities. Our results consistent previous studies that other methods suggest McAbee, Princeton, Republic, had environments. our show ranges variables may be too broad predicting was present. study appears first combine NLR ENM paleoclimates.