Studies of Paleozoic Calamitean Cones: Weissia Kentuckiense Gen. et Sp. Nov.

Abstract

The recent discovery of a new petrified fructification from the Lewis Creek coal ball locality in eastern Kentucky adds to our knowledge of the structure and diversity of c alamitean cones. The incomplete specimen measures 4.8 cm long and 6.0 mm in diameter, and is composed of alternating bract and sporangiophore whorls. Approximately 24 bracts are present in each whorl. Bracts arise at right angles to the axis and are fused into a shallow disk for 2.0 mm before arching distally and becoming free. Six sporangiophores arise obliquely from slightly above each bract disk; each sporangiophore bears two large pendant sporangia that are attached along their distal and tangential surfaces. Sporangia! walls are a single cell layer thick and are characterized by internal cell lumen partitions. The distal ends of the sporangiophores are fused to form a continuous ring of tissue that surrounds the sporangia. Features of the new cone are discussed in relation to those of other calamitean cones of similar age.