The Proteaceae is not only an emblematic family of plants (including groups like banksias, grevilleas and waratahs), but is also a model system for understanding the quintessential sclerophyll flora of Australia.
This project will critically appraise and assemble the rich fossil record of this family, and analyse the relationships between characteristics of the diverse leaves of this family to environment, especially climate. Using that evidence, we will link modern and fossil leaves to provide a key to understanding the evolution of an important part of the biota of the Southern Hemisphere.