Paleofloristic zoning of the Carboniferous in USSR

The author presents an excellent, objective review of Radchenko's phytogeographic zoning, proposed for the Carboniferous of the USSR. Whereas Radchenko has recognized several phytogeographic zones and provinces for the Carboniferous of the USSR, Meyen points out that anatomical and morphological features of the plants concerned do not support the climatic conclusions drawn by Radchenko. A major point of criticism also lies in the fact that many undescribed taxa are used to support Radchenko's views, and floristic boundaries are confidently drawn with no supporting basis. Meyen advises general caution in considering Radchenko's overall conclusions. -- S. H. Mamay.