The largest calamite and its growth architecture — Arthropitys bistriata from the Early Permian Petrified Forest of Chemnitz

摘要: Abstract The largest petrified calamite is reported from the Early Permian fossil forest of Chemnitz, Germany. For first time a sizable specimen Arthropitys bistriata permits insights into both internal anatomical structure and spatial architecture complex branching system. arboreal woody plant characterized by height more than 10 m at least three orders axes which formed large crown. Ontogenetic analyses main stem various branches demonstrate that most morphological features have been previously recognized as important inter-specific distinctions exhibit considerable variability. Spheroid to elongate ovoid coprolites in pith cavity one branch ranging 1.4–2.8 × 2–5.8 mm diameter. Semi- or undigested fragments tracheids are identical with those parent indicate their histologically pristine nature. According coprolite size records detritivorous animals, we tentatively suggest these were produced specialized ancient myriapods. Growth rings densely developed peripheral portion trunk particular. As well climatic cyclicity, they volcanism-induced environment turbulences become serious frequent, finally buried whole ecosystem situ.