Vizellopsidites miocenicus
Why in News?
Vizellopsidites miocenicus is in the news following the discovery of a new microscopic fossil fungus preserved on a leaf dating back 8 to 12 million years in the Western Himalayas (Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh).
Discovery & Extraction Methodology
- Researchers & Location: Published by researchers from Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University from middle Siwalik sediments in Himachal Pradesh.
- Maceration Process: Scientists used gentle acids to dissolve surrounding rock and isolate the leaf cuticle.
- Microscopic Reveal: Intricate dark-brown structures of the fungus were revealed under a high-powered light microscope.
Biological Characteristics
- Classification & Morphology: An epifoliar ascomycotal fossil fungal species featuring dark-brown, reticulate network arrangements, larger cells, and circular fruiting bodies.
- Scientific Name: miocenicus references the Late Miocene epoch when it thrived.
Evolutionary & Evolutionary Differentiation
- Taxonomic Kinship: Shows similarities to modern Vizellopsis and Vizella genera.
- Distinction from Relatives: Differs from Vizellopsidites siwalika by displaying a looser, net-like framework and larger cells instead of dense mats.
- Climate Marker: Acts as a sensitive climate indicator, proving that the Western Himalayas shifted from a sweltering tropical ecosystem to a cooler alpine environment.
