Fruits of <i>Firmiana</i> and <i>Craigia</i> (Malvaceae) from the Eocene of the Central Tibetan Plateau with emphasis on biogeographic history

The fossil record evidences an old origin and diversification of Malvaceae in the Northern Hemisphere. central Tibetan Plateau was at a low elevation with monsoon influence during Eocene, allowing development subtropical flora containing Malvaceae. taxonomic study fossils from Eocene what is now still ongoing. Jianglang flora, are attributed to sub-families Tilioideae Sterculioideae, compared modern species. A new specimen Firmiana described based on fruit valve pinnate venation, secondary veins starting ventral suture reaching midvein, seeds attached proximal part suture. This represents earliest known occurrence genus. Craigia also reported detached membranous valves capsule prominent fusiform locular area radiating venation. Based its distribution, we infer that genus may have originated East Asia subsequently diversified South China Southeast Asia. indicates distributed humid areas South, Southwest North Eocene. Both records evidence important role region played plants