An annotated checklist of the pleurocarpous moss genus Plagiothecium in Eurasia is presented for the first time based on a thorough review of the literature. Data have been compiled from previous relevant works conducted on the genus over more than 70 years and published up to the end of June 2020 for 107 Eurasian countries (and islands). Sectional classification is based on molecular phylogeny of the genus published recently. A total of 41 taxa are reported, including 29 species and 12 infraspecific taxa (nine varieties and three forms) belonging to eight sections. The highest numbers of taxa were found in China (20 taxa), the Russian Federation (20 taxa) and Japan (18 taxa), while the smallest numbers of taxa were recorded in the Middle East, Central Asia and the islands area. Not a single species of Plagiothecium was recorded in 26 regions, whereas P. denticulatum, P. nemorale and P. cavifolium turned out to be the most widespread species in the entire study area. They were recorded in most of the surveyed countries and islands. For each accepted taxon, information on relevant literature, synonyms, distribution within Eurasia and globally are provided. Comments on each taxon, ecological preferences, and notes on doubtful records are also included. Additionally, distribution maps for each recognised taxon are supplied. This checklist can enlighten and foster a better understanding of the distribution, diversity, and ecology of Plagiothecium in Eurasia and provides an incentive for future research on the genus.

Based on a survey of the fossil wood flora of Gebel Qatrani (Rupelian, Fayum, Egypt), three new species of palm stem are described: Palmoxylon araneus Nour-El-Deen, El-Saadawi & Thomas sp. nov., Palmoxylon elsaadawii Nour-El-Deen & Thomas sp. nov. and Palmoxylon qatraniense Nour-El-Deen, El-Saadawi & Thomas sp. nov. The specimens are the first petrified palm wood to be reported from the deposits in the upper sequence of the Gebel Qatrani Formation. They are characterized by fibrovascular bundles with two vessels, the presence of a ground parenchyma sustained growth, fibrous bundles, globular echinate phytoliths, radiating parenchyma, and multiseriate scalariform thickening of metaxylem elements. Palaeoclimatic inferences and comparisons with similar fossil stems are discussed for each of the three taxa. Comparisons with extant palms allow identification of these species to tribal (Trachycarpeae) and subfamilial (Coryphoideae) levels. They are the first representatives of tribe Trachycarpeae on the African continent. An attempt is also made to explain migration events and discuss the current and fossil distribution of the tribe in Africa.