| Summary: | The use of Dynamic Global Vegetation Models (DGVMs) in paleo-vegetation studies is a practical new approach in paleo-ecology as it allows for process-based investigations within a flexible framework. The goal of this study is to evaluate the applicability of Lund Potsdam Jena (LPJ) – DGVM in a paleo-study of Cretaceous angiosperm spread, while testing several pre-existing theories regarding the spread through model experimentation. I assessed the independent and interactive role of climate variables (temperature, precipitation, atmospheric CO2 concentration, and seasonality), latitudinal light regime, soil structure, and plant characteristics (tree versus grass, and deciduousness) in influencing angiosperm expansion by simulating the response of Cretaceous land cover to changes in each factor. I found that temperature and light were the most influential variables in determining angiosperm success, while plant structure and deciduousness may carry implications for early angiosperm establishment and community competition dynamics. LPJ showed great potential for refinement and effective future use in paleo-applications.
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