| Abstract Detail
Recent Topics Posters Bronson, Allison W. [1], Tomescu, Alexandru M.F. [2]. An intriguing plant fossil from the Early Devonian of Wyoming (Beartooth Butte Formation, Lochkovian–Pragian). We explore the possible taxonomic affinities of an intriguing fossil from Lochkovian–Pragian (Early Devonian) of the Beartooth Butte Formation (Wyoming). The fossil occurs in an early vascular plant assemblage and exhibits features that make it different from all other taxa in the unit: equal dichotomous branching of naked axes, large size, a finely fragmented texture, and a swollen base; its large size is unexpected for this stratigraphic level and age. To address the taxonomic affinities of this specimen, we compare it with the largest Silurian – Middle Devonian representatives of different plant lineages in terms of size, branching pattern, and presence (or lack) of appendages. These comparisons reveal that the combination of characters of the Cottonwood Canyon fossil is unlike that of any Silurian – Middle Devonian fossils. Pending further discoveries, the taxonomic affinities of this fossil remain unresolved. Log in to add this item to your schedule
1 - Humboldt State University, Department of Biological Sciences, 1 Harpst Street, Arcata, California, 95521, USA 2 - Humboldt State University, Department Of Biological Sciences, 1 Harpst Street, Arcata, CA, 95521, USA
Keywords: Devonian Fossil Wyoming.
Presentation Type: Recent Topics Poster Session: P Location: / Date: Monday, July 28th, 2014 Time: 5:30 PM Number: PRT025 Abstract ID:1264 Candidate for Awards:None |