Ancient Queensland Fossils Reveal Early Presence of Melastomataceae Family

Exceptional fossils uncovered in central Queensland have been classified as the first evidence of the Melastomataceae family in Australia and the broader eastern Gondwanan region, leading to the description of a new genus and species, Capella raulingsii. Principal geoscience scientist Andrew Rozefelds and his team published their findings in the International Journal of Plant Sciences, arguing that the plants were present on the continent roughly 30 million years ago, which opposes recent molecular studies that proposed a Southeast Asian origin.

The specimens, recovered from silcrete deposits near Capella, were examined using synchrotron imaging by Anita Milroy, revealing internal fruit structures without damaging the fossils. The research also documents the first complete fossil fruit of the family worldwide, a rarity given the usual fragmentation of plant fossils. Paleontologist Vera Korasidis, not involved in the study, highlighted the significance of soft-tissue preservation and suggested further exploration of the region. The findings reshape understanding of ancient rainforest ecosystems and the biogeographic history of Melastomataceae.