Abstract: The lacustrine spore and pollen record from the Tianyang volcanic basin of Leizhou Peninsula, Guangdong Province, indicates a series of complex vegetation changes during the last 350 ka B. P. The Pleistocene vegetation is very different from the present and its changes could be associated with the global climate fluctuations. From 240 ka to 130 ka B. P., there was a increase in tropical montane rain forest elements such as Tsuga, Keteleeria, Dacrydium, Pinus, Juglans, Carpinus that indicates a cool and moist environment which became warmer (humid rain forest) until 80000 yrs. B. P. The interval between 80000 and 45000 yrs. B.P. was characterized by the invasion of many deciduous trees (Fagus, Carpinus, Alnus, Carya, Pterocarya) and the augmentation of some conifer components, whereas, many tropical taxa remained. This assemblage suggests cooler but very moist condition. Comparison with modern vegetation in south-eastern China makes it possible to estimate that the annual mean temperature might be 5℃ lower than today. Coldest and driest condition occurred between 22000 and 12000 yrs. B.P. The grassland (Gramineae, Artemisia and many ferns)became more extensive and the montane rain forest began to degrade, leading to the disapearance of many taxa which were used to humid environment. The monsoon circulation seemed to be more and more pronounced from this time. By 10000 yrs. B.P. the climate rhythm comparable to today (distinct arid and humid season) was established.

Key words: Quaternary, Sporo-pollen flora, Paleoclimate