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CATALOGUE

MESOZOIC PLANTS

DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY

PART I.

CATALOGUE

OP THE f^ 3 L/. / (i/.

MESOZOIC PLANTS

IN THE

DEPAETMENT OF GEOLOGY

BRITISH MUSEUM

(NATUEAL HISTOEY).

THE WEALDEN FLORA.

Part I.— THALLOPHYTA— PTEEIDOPHYTA.
PLATES I-XI.

A. C. SEWAED, M.A., F.G.S.

UNIVERSITY LECTURER IN BOTANY, CAMBRIDGE.

LONDON:
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AND AT THE

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY), CROM^VELL ROAD, S.W.

1894.

LIBRARY

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
DAVIS

HERTFORD :

PRINTED BY STEPHEN AUSTIN AND SONe

PREFACE

The9,e is probably no part of England wbich possesses a
greater interest for geologists than that of the Weald.
The area in which the "Wealden beds are developed
extends over a considerable part of Surrey, Sussex and
Kent, between Haslemere, Hythe and Pevensey; they
are also found in Dorsetshire and the Isle of Wight.
But it is more particularly in the neighbourhood of
Hastings that the more important fossil remains have
been obtained. The beds exhibit evidence of having
been accumulated in an estuary or lake, where fresh-
water conditions prevailed. The Flora includes Coniferae,
Cycads, Ferns, etc., the Fauna Ostracoda {Cypridea) ;
Insect remains; MoUusca {CyrenUy Unio, Melanopsis, Palu-
dina, etc.) ; Fishes {Lepidotus^ HyhoduSy etc.) ; Reptiles
(Crocodilia and Dinosauria) ; Mammals {Plagiaulax).

Our earliest information respecting the strata is mainly
due to the labours of Mantell and Fitton.

Stokes and Webb, Robert Brown, Fitton, Brongniart,
Dunker, Schimper, Carruthers, Count Solms-Laubach and
others have noticed and described its fossil plants, but
Mantell's name will always be more particularly asso-
ciated with the discoveries of organic remains, and with
the history of the Wealden area.

VI PREFACE.

"VVe are fortunate in possessing many of Mantell's
original specimens of Wealden plants, but, although his-
torically of great interest, they are largely superseded
by those recently obtained by Mr. P. Eufford, whose fine
collection has lately been acquired for the National
Museum.

It is satisfactory to know that in this country the
long-neglected study of the Mesozoic plants is now being
taken up by so able a Botanist as Mr. Albert Seward,
and that the first instalment of his Catalogue is now
complete.

It is expected that the Wealden plants will occupy two
fasciculi, and that the Oolitic plants of Yorkshire, of
which the Museum possesses exceptionally fine materials
obtained by the late Mr. Bean, by Dr. Murray of
Scarborough, and other well-known collectors, may be
similarly treated by Mr. Seward.

HENEY WOODWARD.

Department of Geology,
March 10th, 1894.

AUTHOR'S PREFACE.

The scope of the present volume is confined to the
Thallophytaj Charophyta, Bryophytay and Pteridophyta repre-
sented in the British Museum collections of English
Wealden plants. A general review and more critical
discussion of the Wealden flora, as a whole, will be
attempted in the second volume after the remaining
classes of plants have been fully examined.

I desire to express my obligation to Dr. Woodward,
Mr. R. Bullen Newton, and other members of the
Geological Department for the facilities and help which
have been afforded me during my vacation visits to
the Museum. My thanks are also due to Mr. Carruthers,
who has always been ready to place at my disposal
his wide knowledge of fossil and recent ferns; to my
friend Mr. Geo. Murray I am indebted for generous
help ; also to other members of the Botanical Depart-
ment, who have assisted me in various ways.

For information on certain points connected with recent
ferns I have availed myself of the exceptional advantages
afforded by the Royal Gardens, Kew.

Vlll AUTHOR S PREFACE.

In certain parts of the work I have received valuable
assistance from Mr. C. Davies Sherborn. Mr. Rufford,
whose labours have been the primary cause of this
Catalogue, has aided me from time to time by helpful
suggestions, and by his accurate local knowledge of the
Wealden flora in the neighbourhood of Hastings.

In conclusion I wish to express my thanks for com-
munications received from the Marquis of Saporta, Prof.
Stenzel of Breslau, Prof. Zeiller of Paris, and Dr. Bommer
of Brussels.

A. C. SEWARD.

Cambkidge,

March Uth, 1894.

INTRODUCTION.

Before proceeding to deal in detail with the fossil plants from
the Wealden rocks of England, it may be useful to summarize
the results of previous workers in the field of Wealden
vegetation. After a sketch of the work already published by
English geologists and palaeobotanists, we will briefly notice those
records of fossil plants from other countries which may serve as
data, from which to draw conclusions as to the distribution of
such floras as agree more or less closely with that of the English
"Wealden.

The present volume is only concerned with the Thallophyta,
Charophyta, Bryophyta and Pleridophyta, but in the lists quoted
in the following pages the higher plants are included. In
each case the specific names are reproduced unaltered from the
writings of the several authors, with the addition of the newer
titles in those cases where a change has been proposed in the
present Volume.

ENGLAND.

The term ** Wealden" appears to have been first proposed by
P. J. Martin' in 1828, and is a modification of Weald Measures,
instituted in 1822 by J. Middleton.'^ Martin, in his Geological

^ Geol. Mem. Sussex, p. 9.

2 H. B. Woodward, Geol. England and Wales, 1887, p. 356.

X INTBODUCTION.

Memoir/ refers to the Wealden as including the "Weald clay,
Hastings sands, and Tilgate beds. In Topley's exhaustive
Memoir on the " Geology of the Weald " the area occupied by
the rocks in question is spoken of as ** one of the best defined
geographical tracts in England. Its boundary is the chalk
escarpment, which, commencing at Folkestone Hill, near the
Straits of Dover, passes through the counties of Kent, Surrey,
Hants and Sussex, to the sea at Beachy Head. The oval-shaped
area thus enclosed is what geologists have termed the "Weald." *

The fossils which form the subject of the present Monograph
have been collected from rocks included in the Wealden Series,
as defined by H. B. Woodward in his ''Geology of England and
Wales," that is, in the strata which are " developed over a
considerable part of Surrey, Sussex and Kent, between Hasle-
mere, Hythe and Pevensey; they are also found in Dorsetshire
and the Isle of Wight."

In looking over the literature of Continental or, rather, extra-
British Lower Cretaceous stratigrapliy, we are met with a difficulty
in the use of the terms Wealden and iNeocomian.

In a recent Monograph on the plants of the Potomac Flora
of IS'orth America, Fontaine has thus referred to the want of
a definite understanding as to the significance of these two
names :^ "The two formations which are capable of miscon-
ception are the Wealden and N^eocomian. By some, the Wealden
formation is regarded as an independent group, forming the upper-
most member of the Jurassic. Others regard it as a series of
beds contemporaneous with a portion of the Lower Neocomian,
formed in estuaries and marshes at the time when a portion of
the typical Lower Neocomian, which is marine, was being de-
posited in the sea. The latter view is the one assumed in this
[Fontaine's] Memoir." The term !N'eocomian is used by Fontaine
as including the Urgonian and Aptian of D'Orbigny. He goes
on to say: "When, then, reference is made to Neocomian plants.

1 H. B. Woodward, Geol. England and Wales, 1887, p. 40.

2 Topley, Weald, p. 1.

8 Potomac Fltyra, p. 331.

INTEODUCTIOX. XI

fossils of the Wealden, TJrgonian, and Aptian groups are included
and not distinguished." ^

It will be well, therefore, at the outset to state definitely in
what sense the term "Wealden is used in the present Catalogue. In
his Memoir on the Weald, Topley expresses the opinion that the
"Wealden and Purbeck strata should be classed together as one
unbroken series.^ This and similar statements by various geolo-
gists might be quoted in support of a Purbeck- Wealden series,
and, possibly, such would best represent the true stratigraphical
relations of the two sets of beds. On the other hand we are not
concerned here with any critical examination of the geological
evidence, whether stratigraphical or palaeontological ; and for the
present, at least, it will be more convenient to conform to the
general usage of the term by English geologists, and include
the Wealden beds in the Cretaceous system to the exclusion of
the Purbeck.

In the Report of the British Committee to the International
Geological Congress of 1888, the Reporters, Messrs. A. J. Jukes-
Browne and W. Topley,^ recommended a general classification of
the Cretaceous system, in which the " Lower series " of the
system is defined as comprising the Lower Greensand (Yectian),
Weald Clay and Hastings Sands; the two latter being bracketed
together as I^eocomian.

In the correlation table of the Cretaceous system, given by the
same authors, the Purbeck beds are placed at the base in the
South-Eastern area.

In Geikie's Text-book* the usual classification is adopted, the
Purbeck beds being regarded as the uppermost members of the
Jurassic system.

In this connection it may be of interest to quote the views
recently put forward by Messrs. Pavlow and Lamplugh in their
Essay on the Speeton Clay. Their correlation of four zones

1 Potomac Flora, p. 332.

2 Weald, p. 321.

' Cong. Geol. Int. App. B. Cretaceous, p. 77.
* Text Book of Geology, 1893, p. 938.

xu

JNTRODUCTION.

of this East Yorkshire formation with Wealden rocks of North-
West Germany, England, and North France is expressed in
tabular form as follows^: —

FOUR ZONES OF SPEETON CLAY.

N."W. Germany.

Hils beds witli Crioceras Hmerici, etc., etc.

Hils clay with Hoplitea regalis, etc., etc.

Upper Portlandian, brackish
or Purbeckian type
(Wealden of Germau geo-
logists) .

Hils grit and con-
glomerate witb
Belemnites lateralis,
etc.

Serpulite
Miinder Mergel

S. England and
Boulogne.

Weald clay.
Hastings sands.

Upper Portlandian,
brackish or Pur-
beckian type.

In another recent work, "Text Book of Comparative Geology,"
by Kayser (translated and edited by Lake), we find this extremely

WEALDEN.

Germany,

England.

^PPer

Walderthon

Weald clay

Middle

Deister sandstone

Hastings sands

Serpulite

Purbeck

Lower

Miinder Mergel

simple table in which the term Wealden is used in the wider sense.'

Having thus defined the term Wealden as employed by some of

the most recent writers, and stated the sense in which it is used

1 Arg. Speeton, pp. 200-20 L

2 p. 288.

INTEODUCTION. Xlll

in the present work, we will proceed to a general sketch of
Wealden palaeobotany.

In the early part of the present century the Wealden series of
Southern England was examined by Mantell and Pitton, and it
is mainly to their labours that we owe our earliest knowledge of
the life of that period. Gideon Mantell in 1822 published a
work on "The fossils of the South Downs, or Illustrations of
the Geology of Sussex," and included those rocks to which the
term Wealden is now applied under the so-called Greensand
formations, which he subdivided thus^ : —

ilron Sand,
Tilo'ate beds.
Weald or Oak Tree clay.
Greensand.

In the first of these subdivisions plant remains are recorded,
but without any definite names, descriptions, or plates. The first
figures and scientific names of Wealden plants are those contained
in a paper contributed to the Transactions of the Geological Society
in 1824. Two members of the Council, Messrs. Stokes and Webb,
were appointed to describe certain fossils which had been forwarded
to the Society by Mantell from Tilgate Forest ; in the description
of the plants " invaluable assistance " was received from Mr.
Robert Brown. The following species are mentioned, with
figures^ : —

Pecopteris reticulata^ S. and "W.

Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.).
Endogenites erosa^ S. and "W.

Tempskya Schiinperi, Corda.

Clathraria anomala, S. and W.
Carpolithus Mantelli, S. and "W. =

? Equisetites Burchardty Dunk.
Hymenopteris psilotoides, S. and W. =

Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).

In 1833 Mantell's work appeared on *'The Geology of the
South-East of England," and in chapter xi. there is a ** description
of the organic remains of the Wealden, and particularly of those
of the strata of Tilgate Eorest." ^ The specific name of the
genus Clathraria is changed from anomala to Lyelli, Hymenopteris
psilotoides is spoken of as Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong., Pecopteris

1 p. 22.

2 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i. 1824, p. 421.
5 p. 232.

XIT INTRODUCTION.

reticulata as Lonchopteris MantelU^ Brong. In addition to these
changes in nomenclature some additional species are recorded:
Cycadites Brongniarti, Mant., Sphenopteris Sillimani^ Mant.=:? Ony-
chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.), and S. Phillipsii=.Ruffordia Gopperti
(Dunk.), also Lycopodites ?, Calamites, and Uquisetum Lyelli, Mant.
The same author furnishes a list of Wealden plants in a
communication to the Geological Society entitled '* A tabular
arrangement of the organic remains of the County of Sussex";*
but in this list there are no species added to those already men-
tioned. Three years later Fitton's important paper was published :
** Observations on some of the Strata between the Chalk and the
Oxford Oolite in the South-East of England." '^ Under the heading
Wealden, he includes Weald Clay, Hastings Sands, and Purbeck.
New facts are brought forward with regard to the characteristic
and problematical fossil Endogenites erosa, S. and l^. = Tempskya
Schimperi, Corda, and a new species of SphenopteriSf S. gracilis,
Titton^=Sphenopteris Fittoni, sp. nov., is figured and briefly
described ; the occurrence of a Coniferous cone is also noted.
"Without attempting to follow each step in the progress of our
knowledge of Wealden floras, we may pass at once to a more
recent publication and notice what species are recorded. In
Topley's Memoir, previously referred to, the following list of
plants occurs*: —

Araucarites {Zamiostrobus) Fipping-
fordensis, Ung.

CarpoUthes Mantelli, Brong. =?^5Mi-
setites Burchardti, Dunk.

Clathraria Lyelli, S. and W.^

Endogenites erosa, S. and W .^ = Temp-
sky a Schimperi, Corda.

Equisetttes {Equisetum) Lyellii, Mant.

Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brong. =
Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.).

Eierophyllum {Cycadites) Brongniarti,
Mant.

Sphenopteris gracilis, YiiioTi = Spheno-
pteris Fittoni, sp. nov.

S. Mantelli, Brong. = Onychiopsis
Mantelli (Brong.).

S. Fhillipsii, 'M.QMi. = Ruffordia Gop-
perti (Dunk.).

S. Sillimani, Mant. = ? Onychiopsis
Mantelli (Brong.).

Thuytes [Cupressites) Kurrianus,
Dunk.

Zamiostrobus [Zamia] crassus, Lind.

1 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. iii. 1835, p. 201.

2 Ibid. vol. iv. 1836, p. 103.

3 p. 181, figs. 1 and 2, and Appendix A. p. 349.
* Weald, p. 409.

5 I have substituted Stokes and "Webb for Mantell as given by Topley as the
authors of the species.

INTEODDCTION.

XV

In the later edition of Dixon's *' Geology of Sussex," Carruthers
has furnished a list of plants of Wealden age ; the following
species being mentioned in addition to many of those included in
Topley'slist^:—

Laeeopteris Gopperti, Schimp. =J/a^

onidium Gopperti (Ett.).
Fecopteris Geinitzii, Dunk.

Equisetum Burchardti, Dvjoik.. = Equi-

setites Burchardti, Dunk.
Pinites Bunkeri, Carr.
Cycadeostrobus, sp.

A brief sketch of the Wealden flora is given by Bogle ^ in a
paper on the " Wealden Strata of East Sussex," but no new species
are added to the lists of plants recorded by previous writers.

The next communication on this subject, to which reference
need be made, is a note by E. H. Peyton in 1883,^ in which the
following additional species are recorded from British Wealden
strata: — Oleandridium {Tceniopteris) Beyrichii, Schenk, Pecopteru
MurcMsom, Dunk., and Pterophyllum Schaumhurgense (Dunk.) ;
there is also a specimen mentioned which is considered to be
probably Sphenopteris Gopperti^ Dunk. =. Rujfordia Gopperti
(Dunk.).

In the later edition of Bristow's "Geology of the Isle of
Wight," the following plants are mentioned as occurring in
"Wealden strata*: —

Finites Carruthersi, Gardn.
P. Dunkeri, Mant.
P. valdensis, Gardn,
Bennettites Saxbijanus, Carr.
Carpolithes sertmn = impressions of

? Equisetites Yokoyamce, sp. nov.
Chara^ — C. Knowltoni, sp. nov.
Clathraria Lyelli, S. and W.
Cycadeostrobus crasstts, Carr.
C. eleyans, Carr.
C. ovatus, Carr.
C. truncatus, Carr.

Cycadeostrobus turnidits, Carr.

C. Walkeri, Carr.

Endogenites erosa, S. and W. =Tt;;«;?-
skya Schimperi, Corda.

Equisetites Burchardti, Dunk.

Fittonia squamata, Carr.

Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Weich-
selia Mantelli (Brong.).

Seeds.

Thuyites.

Zamia crassa? L. and H. (See Cycadeo-
strobus crassus, Carr.)

^ Geol. Sussex, 1878, p. 279.

2 Trans. Jfat. Hist. Soc. Eastbourne, May 20, 1881. (I am indebted to the
Eev. H. G. Jameson, of Eastbourne, for a short abstract of this paper.)

3 Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xxxix. 1883, Proc. p. 3.

4 Geol. I. Wight, 1889, p. 268.

XVI HfTEODUCTION.

In addition to the plants already enumerated, the following
Gymnosperms must be noted from the papers of Carruthers,
Starkie Gardner, and others : —

Pinites Mantelli, Carr.^
P. patens, Carr.

? P. Fiftoni, Carr. (This is described
by Carruthers as labelled from Pur-

beck, but the species is quoted on
another page of the same paper as
a Wealden Conifer.)

In the Report on Mesozoic and Tertiary Gymnosperms presented
to the British Association in 1886,^ there is the following state-
ment, which has not been disproved by subsequent discoveries.
After speaking of some fossil plants previously mentioned by
Mantell and compared to Draccena, the writer of the Report
continues — ** No other trace has been found of any more highly
organized plants than Ferns or Gymnosperms, and this, when we
remember that Monocotyledons were undoubtedly in existence,
is a fact that should be of great significance to speculative
geologists. The sediments must represent the deposits of a
drainage system of a large area, for they are of vast extent
and thickness, varied in character, and abounding in remains of
trunks and stems, fruits and foliage of plants. In them, there-
fore, if anywhere, we might reasonably expect to find, at least,
the trace of reed and rush, but the swamps seem to have been
tenanted only by Equiseturas and Terns, and the forests mainly
by Cycads and Conifers." ^

This is especially noteworthy, as Angiosperms have been re-
corded in floras, agreeing in their general facies with the English
"Wealden, from North America and Portugal.

The great majority of the specimens described in the present
volume have been obtained by Mr. Rufford from the
"Wealden rocks in the neighbourhood of Hastings. I am
indebted to him for the following diagrammatic section and
brief description of the strata from which the material was
obtained.

* Geol. Mag. vol. iii. 1886, p. 643.

2 p. 243.

3 This statement has reference to British fossils only.

utteoduction.

** c. Wadhurst Clay} Consisting of
dark-blue shales and clays, inter-
calated with thin slabs of sand-
stone, also sand-rock, with 'blue
stone' at base.

**b. AsMown Sands. Thick beds of
sandstone, divided by thin layers
of shales and clays.

"a. FairligJit Clays. Clays and shales
predominating, but with some beds
of sandstone and ironstone ; these
latter yielding, very locally, Perns,
Cycads and Conifers.

"iN'oTE. — The general course of the
ancient Wealden River, as evidenced by
the ripple-marks (which would naturally
be found parallel to the stream), and
also by the trend of scattered remains,
such as the bones of individual animals,
trunks of trees, and other debris, appears
to have taken a direction in the neigh-
bourhood of Hastings from N.E. to S.W.
Consequently the coast section would
be obliquely across the bed of the
river, and this fact may account for
the very limited extent of outcropping
fossiliferous beds."

^ See also Topley, Weald, p. 46.

xvu

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XVIU INTEODUCTION.

FRANCE.

Three species of Wealden plants are mentioned by Brongniart

from Beauvais ^ : —

Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brong,= Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.),
Fachypteris gracilis, Brong. = Sphenopteris Fittoni, sp. nov.
Brachyphyllum Gravesii, Brong.

De Lapparent, in his " Traite de Geologie," * refers to the

development of fresh - water infra - Cretaceous rocks south of

Beauvais in the Pays de Bray, and notes the occurrence of the

common English fossil Weichselia Mantelli (Brong. ).^

GERMANY.

Dunker's well-known Monograph,* which appeared in 1846,
deals exhaustively with the fresh-water formation of Northern
Germany, previously correlated by Hoffman with the English
"Wealden. These rocks are comprised in a stretch of country
between Helmstadt and Bentheim, and are usually subdivided
into two members, the lower consisting of sandstones, etc., and
the upper of clay beds; to the former the term Wealden or
Deister Sandstone (= Hastings Sands of English geologists) is
applied, and to the latter Weald Clay. The flora of these North
German beds is obviously of the same facies as the Wealden
of England, and no doubt of the same geological age. It should
be noticed, however, that in Pavlow and Lamplugh's Monograph,^
to which reference has already been made, it is stated that the
beds in Germany spoken of as Wealden have little in common with
the typical Wealden of England.

The next contribution to which attention needs to be called is
one from Ettingshausen in 1852 on the doubtful fossil Palaoxyris,
Brong., which is described at some length from the Deister beds
under the name of Palceohromelia Juglerij Ett.^ The mention of
Falcdoxyris in this introductory sketch is not intended to imply

1 Tableau, p. 107.

* 1885, p. 1042; see also Passy, Descript. Geol. Seine-inf. p. 194.

3 Saporta has recently recorded another species from the Lower "Wealden of
Boulogne, Sphenopteris F)elgadoi, ? Sap. = <S. Fittoni, sp. nov. Eev. gen. hot.
vol. V. p. 365, 1893, pi. iv. fig. 6. * Wealdenbildung. « p. 189.

« Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. 1852, Abth. iii. p. 1.

INTRODUCTION.

XIX

that it should necessarily be included in the list of Wealden plants;
very possibly, as Zeiller and Renault have shown, this puzzle to
palaeobotanists may find its proper place among fossil animals.^

Schenk's important contributions,'^ while correcting the earlier
work of Dunker and others, supply much additional information
as to the flora of the German Wealden. Several of Bunker's
species are found by Schenk to have no claim to stand as such,
but are shown by the more perfect material collected since 1846
to be fragments of different portions of one and the same species.

Following the two papers by Schenk we have a useful Monograph
by Struckmann,^ in which the following list of Wealden plants is
given; and this maybe taken to represent the species recorded from
German Wealden rocks up to 1880.

FucoiditecB ?

JSquisetum Burchardti, Dunk. =jE'j««-

setites Burchardti, Dunk.
Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Ony-

chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).
S. Gopperti, Dunk. =Rnffordia Gop-

perti (Dunk.).
S. delicatissima, Schenk.
Lomatopteris Schimperi, Schenk.
Baiera pluripartita, Schimp.
Ptcopteris Lmikeri, Schimp. = Clado-

phlebis Bunkeri (Schimp.).
P. Murchisoni, Dunk.
P. Geinitzii, Dunk.* Schenk's figure =

Sphenopteris Fittont, sp. nov.
Alethopteris Browniana (Dunk.) =

Cladophlebis Browniana (Dunk.).
A. Huttoni (Dunk.).
A. cycadina, Schenk.
Matonidiiim [Laccopteris) Gopperti

(Schimp.).

Laccopteris Bunkeri, Schenk = if iwo-

dictyon Bunkeri (Schenk).
Sagenopteris Mantelli (Dunk.).
Hausmannia dichotoma, Dunk.
Marsilidium speciosum, Schenk.
Jeanpaulia Brauniana, Dunk.
Tempskya Schimperi, Corda.
Protopteris Witteana, Schenk.
Clathraria Lyelli, S. and W.^
Cycadites Eoemeri, Schenk.
AnomozamitesSchautnburgense{Y)Mjik.).
Pterophyllum Lyellianum, Dunk.
Bioonites Bunkerianus (Giipp.).
B. Gdppertianus (Dunk.).
Pachyphyllum curvifolium (Dunk.).
P. crassifoUum, Schenk.
Abietites Binkii (A. Emr.).
Sphenolepis Sternbergiana (Dunk.),
S. Kurriana (Dunk.).
Spirangium Jugleri (Ett.).

1 Compt. Rend. vol. cvii. 1888, p. 1022.

- Palaeontographica, vol. xix. 1871, and vol. xxiii. 1875.

2 "Weald. Hannover, p. 44.

* The existence of Dunker' s "Wealden species, P. Geinitzii, seems to have heen
overlooked by Gutbier and others, who make use of the same name for a Permian
fern of a different character, e.g. See Sterzel, Flor. Koth. Plauenschen Grunde,
Abh. k. Sachs. Ges. "Wiss. math. phys. CI. vol. xix. p. 120, 1893.

^ Mantell is given by Stnickmann as the author of this species.

zx

INTEODUCTION.

In a paper by Hosius and Von der Marck, published in the
Palaeontographica for 1879-1880, a number of plants are figured
and described from the Westphalian Chalk formation; the
following species are mentioned from the Lower Gault and
Neocomian' : —

Zonchopterisrecentior, Schenk= Weich-

selia Mantelli (Brong.).
Clathraria galtiana, Hos. and V. d. M.
Megalozamia falciformis, Hos. and V.

d. M.
Frotopteris punctata (Sternb.) .
Weichselia Ludovicce, Stiehler = W.

Mantelli (Brong.).
Laccopteris Dunkeri, Schenk = Jfjcro-

dictyon Bunktri (Schenk).
Sagenopteris Neocomiensis, Hos. and

V. d. M.

Pterophyllum Germaria, E. v. Otto.
F. blechniforme, Hos. and V. d. M.
F. Saxonicum, Eeich.
Dioonites abietinus, Miguel.
Fodozamates aqualis, Miguel.
Zamites tbwyensis, Hos. and Y. d. M.
Z. nervosus, Schenk.
Abietites Linkii, Roem.
Sphenolepis Sternbergiana, Schenk.
S. Xurriana? Schenk.
Fitcairnia primcBva, Hos. andV.d. M.

In a later communication from the same authors Finus Quenstedti,
Heer, is added to the list of Keocomian plants from "Westphalia.^

A number of distinctly Wealden plants has been recorded
from strata in the neighbourhood of Quedlinburg, on the northern
side of the Hartz Mountains ; these beds are spoken of as Lower
Quadersandstone and ''Hilssandstein." The following species are
given by Schulze ^ : —

Alelhopteris cgcadina, Schenk.
A. revoluta.

Matonidium Gopperii, Schenk.
Gleichenia, cf. rotula, Hr.
G. cf. giesekiana, Hr.
Cf. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brong. =
Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.).

Fteridophyllum fastigiatum, Schulze.

Zamites, sp.

Cf. Sequoia falcifolia, Boemer, sp. =

Sphenolepis Sternbergiana, Schenk.
Sphenolepis imbricata, Boemer, sp. =

S. Xurriana, Schenk.

1 Palaeontographica, vol. xxvi. 1880, pp. 201 et seq.

2 Ibid. vol. xxxi. ,1885, p. 231.

2 Flor. subhercyn. Kreid. pp. 10 et seq.

INTRODUCTION. XXI

In addition to these there are three species recorded from
Langenberg near Quedlinburg ^ : —

Weichselia Zudovicce, Stiehler = TF. Mantelli (Brong ) .
Fterophyllum Ernestince, Stiehler.
Fandanus SimildcB, Stiehler.

In a recent communication from Struckmann' on the strata
between the "Hilsthon" and Wealden of ^North Germany, it
is pointed out that in England the brackish water-deposits at
the end of the Jurassic period seem to have continued for a
longer time than in I^orth Germany ; and this author suggests
that the Wealden should be regarded not as a distinct formation,
but as a facies, consisting of brackish water-deposits at the close
of the Jurassic period, and which, in some places, extended to
the Chalk.

AUSTRIA.

Ettingshausen in 1852 described a number of fossil plants from
Zobing and a few other localities, from beds considered to be of
Wealden age ; many of the species being identical with Wealden
plants of Northern Germany. The following species are recorded
from these plant-bearing beds^: —

Confervites setaceus, Ett.
Sargassites Partschii, Ett.
Sphcerococites chondriceformiSf Ett.
Equisetites Burchardti, Dunk.
Cyclopteris squamata, Ett.
C. Mantelli, Dunk. = ? Sagenopteris

Mantelli (Dunk.).
Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Ony-

chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).
Alethopteris recentior, Ett. = ? Weich-
, selia Mantelli (Brong.).

Tceniopieris Zobingiana, Ett. = ? Frag-
ment of Neuropteris.
Cycadites Brongniarti, Roem.
Fterophyllum Buchianum, Ett.

F. nervosum, Ett.
Culmites prisons, Ett.
Thuites Hoheneggeri, Ett.
Araucarites Dunkeri, Ett.
A. curvifolius, Ett.
Carpolithes Lindleyanus, Dunk.

G. rostellatus, Ett.

In 1871 Schenk discusses the plants and geologic age of the
Wernsdorfer beds at some length; from an examination of the
flora he concludes that these Carpathian rocks are nearer in age

1 Flor. subhercyn. Kreid. p. 14.

2 Jahrb. k. preuss. geol. Landesanst, 1889, p. 54.

3 Abh. k.-k. geol. Eeichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, 1852, p. 1.

XXU INTRODUCTION.

to the Jura and Wealden than to the Chalk period. The following

additions are made to the species already included among the

plants from Ettingshausen's Wealden localities ^ : —

P. Hoheneggeri, Sch.

P. obovatus, Sch.

Zamites Gopperii, Sch., and four other

Chondrites fur cillatus, Roem.
Baiera cretosa, Sch.
Cycadopteris Dunkeri, Sch.
Cycadites Heerii, Sch.
Fodozamites Zittelii, Sch.

species.
Widdringtonites gracilis, Heer ?

In Yelenovsky's contributions to Mesozoic botany we have
certain species recorded from Lower Cretaceous rocks in Bohemia
which point to a close agreement in facies with the North German
and English Wealden. These beds are classed by Yelenovsky as
Cenomanian.'^ Among the " Eerns " from Peruc and other
localities the following species occur, which are identical with or
closely allied to typical Wealden forms : —

Thyrsopteris capsulifera, Vel.
Laccopteris Dunkeri, Schenk=Jlfi<?;o-

dictyon Dunkeri (Schenk).
Ftsris frigida, Heer.

F. Albertini (Dunk.) = ? Cladophlebis

Albertsii (Dunk.).
Jeanpaulia earinata, Vel.
Dicksonia punctata (Sternb.).
Tempskya vaiians (Corda).

Among the Gymnosperms from the same beds there are certain
forms which closely resemble Wealden species ^ — e.g. : —

Thinnfeldia variabilis, Vel. =?Sageno-

pteris Mantelli (Dunk.).
Nilssonia Bohemica, Vel.
Sequoia Eeichenbachi, Heer.

Cunning hamites elegarts, Heer.
Finns Quenstedti, Heer.
Eolirion primigenimn, Sch.

POETUGAL.

In his "Contributions a la flore fossil du Portugal" Heer has
given descriptions and illustrations of the following species from
two localities — Almargem and Yalle de Lobos; these floras are
considered by him to be in '* intimate relation with the Wealden
flora."*

1 Palaeontographica, vol. xix. 1871, p. 23.

2 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg. Band ii. 1888.
^ Gymn. bohm. Kreid.

* Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. vi.

INTEODUCTION.

xxni

Teenidium lusitanicum, Hr.
Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Ony-

chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).
S. Gomesiana, Hr.
8. plurinervia, Hr.
S. valdensis, Hr. (in part) = OwycAi-

opsis Mantelli (Brong.).
S. angustiloba, Hr.
S. lupulina, Hr.
Pecopteiis Bunktri^ Schimp. — Clado-

phlebis Bunker i (Schimp.).
P. CJioffatiana, Hr.
Laccopteris pulcheUa, Hr.
Matonidium Gopperti, Ett., sp.

Ctenidium integerrimum, Hr.-
C. dentatum, Hr.
Czekanowskia nervosa, Hr.
Sequoia lusitanica, Hr.
Sphenolepidium Sternbergianiim,

Dunk., sp.
S. Kurrianiim, Dunk,, sp.
S. debile, Hr.

Brachyphyllum obesum, Hr.
B. corallinum, Hr.
Frenelopsis occidentalis, Hr.
Bambusium latifolium, Hr.
Caulinites atavinus, Hr.

More recently Saporta has published a note in the Comptes
Eendus for 1891,^ in which he mentions some interesting species
of fossil plants discovered at Cereal, between Cenomanian and
*'Neojurassic" beds. Among the ferns he draws attention to
Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong., S. plurinervia, Hr., 8. valdensisy
Hr., and S. angustiloba, Hr. ; there are also two species of
Sepaticce recorded, and two or three Lycopodiaceous plants, with
a remarkable new species, Isoetopsis Choffati, referred to the
IsoetacecB. Brachyphyllum, Sphenolepidium and Frenelopsis are
quoted as Coniferous genera.

The most important fossils are, however, certain species which
he considers to be Angiosperms, and especially Dicotyledons.
Poacites, Brong., Zosteris, Brong., and Belgadoa, Sap., are placed
among the Monocotyledons, with Protolemna and Protorrhipsis,
Andr., as representatives of the oldest known Dicotyledons,

BELGIUM.

Under the head of Wealden plants we must include the
following species of Cycads and Conifers described by Coemans
from Baume "^ : —

1 Corapt. Rend. vol. cxiii. 1891, p. 249. See also Rev. gen. bot. vol. v. 1893.
« Mem. Ac. R. Belg. vol. xxxvi. 1867, p. 82.

XXIV INTEODUCTION.

Finus ffibbosa, Coem.
P. Heeri, Coem.
P. depressa, Coem.
P. Toillezi, Coem.

Cyeaditea Schachti, Coem.

Finns Omalii, Coem.

P, Briarti, Coem.

P. {Cedrus Cometi ?), Coem.

P. Andrceiy Coem.

"With these species from St. Vaast there should be mentioned
the following, which were discovered in the Colliery of Bernissart,
in the same beds which have yielded Iguanodon remains in such
extraordinary abundance. The species included in the list are
given by Dupont in a paper published in 1878, Saporta being
responsible for the names ^: —

Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Weich-

selia Mantelli (Brong.).
Pecopteris polymorpha, Dunk. = Clado-

Sphenopteris Gopperti, Dunk. =i2w/-
fordia Gopperti (Dunk.).

S. Hoemeri, Dunk. = Onychiopsis Man-
telli (Brong.).

Gleichenia ?

Gleichenites.

phlebis Dunkeri (Schimp.).

P. Conybeari, Dunk. = Matonidiicm
Gopperti (Ett.).

Alethopteris elegans, Gopp. = Jf. Gop-
perti (Ett.).

We have the late Prof. ITewberry's testimony'^ that no trace
of any Angiospermous species occurs among the plants found with
the Iguanodon remains at Bernissart.

Dr. Bommer, of Brussels, is at present engaged upon the
examination of certain Wealden plants recently collected in
the neighbourhood of the same locality from which Coeman's
specimens were obtained.^

EUSSIA.
^ In the Bull. Soc. nat. Moscou for 1844, Auerbach figures and
gives brief descriptions of some fossil plants from Sandstone
strata in the province of Moscow.'* There is, however, no dis-
cussion in his paper as to the age of the rocks, but among the
figures a species is represented which has a striking resemblance
to Weichselia {Lonchopteris) Mantelli (Brong.). Turning to Mur-
chison's "Geology of Russia" (1845), we find the statement
that no "Wealden rocks occur either in Russia or Poland.' The

^ Bull. Ac. R. Belg. ser. ii. 1878, p. 396.

2 Amer. Joum. vol. xli. 1891, p. 194.

3 Letter from Dr. Bommer, Nov. 1893.

4 Vol. xvii. 1844, 1, p. 145, pi. v.
« Geol. Eussia, vol. 1. p. 260.

DfTBODUCTIOX. XXV

geologic age of the Klin Sandstones from which Auerbach's
plants were obtained has given rise to considerable discussion ;
according to Eichwald^ the so-called ''Klin'sche Sandstein"
must be regarded as homotaxial with the Quadersandstein ; on
the other hand Trautschold,^ who has described the plants from
these strata, insists on the close agreement of the flora with
that of the l^orth German Wealden. He supports his own
opinion as to the age of the Klin beds against that of Eichwald,
by quoting Dunker's views, based on an examination of the
plants. The following is a list of the species given in Traut-
Bchold's Monograph ; he points out the admixture of Jurassic
and Cretaceous forms, and recognizes that some of the species
undoubtedly give a Wealden facies to the flora.

Calamites, sp.
EquisetiteSy sp.
Odontopteris dubia, Traut.
Sphenopteris Auerbachi, Traut. =i?2(/-

fordia Gopperti (Dunk.).
Eeussia pectinata, Gopp.
Asplenites desertorum, Traut.
A. KUnensis, Traut. (in part) = Welch-

sella Mantelll (Brong.).
Alethopteris Beichiana (Brong.).
A. metrica, Traut.
Fecopteris Whitbyensls, Brong. = Clado-

phlebls Albertsii (Dunk.).
P. Althatisi, Dunk. = Matonldium

Gopperti (Ett.).

Fecopteris nigrescens, Traut.

F. decipiens, Traut. = Mlcrodictyon

Dunkeri (Schenk).
F. pachycarpa^ Traut.
F. explanata, Traut. = ? Matonldium

Gopperti (Ett.).
Folypodites Mantelll^ Gopp. = Welch-

sella Mantelll (Brong.).
Glossopteris solltaria, Traut.
Cycadites acinaciformis, Traut.
Thuytes ecarlnatus, Traut.
Araucarites hamatus, Traut.
Finns elllptica, Traut.
Auerbachia echinata, Traut.
Fhyllites regularis, Traut.

Several of these determinations have been justly called into
question by Schenk.^

These plant beds of Klin, Tatarowo, etc., are placed by Pavlow
and Lamplugh on the same horizon as the Upper Portland
(brackish or Purbeckian type) and the Hils Conglomerate.'*
Carruthers^ has expressed the opinion, in a footnote to a paper
in the eighth volume of the Geological Magazine (1871), that
the facies of the Klin flora is Cretaceous in character.

1 Bull. Soc. nat. Moscou, vol. xxxiv. 1861, 4, p. 432.

2 Nouv. Mem. Soc. nat. Moscou, vol. xiii. p. 231.

3 PalPGontographica, vol. xix. p. 261.
* Arg. Speeton, pp. 200-201.

^ Geol. Mag. vol. viii. p. 640.

XXVI INTBODUCTION.

GEEENLAND.

Without quoting the Kome beds of Greenland as undoubtedly
agreeing in the character of their flora with the Wealden of
England and North Germany, it must be noted that Heer has
insisted on the fact that there are several features in common
between them and the rocks of Wealden age in more southern
latitudes.

This well-known flora * has been collected from several localities
in the IToursoak Peninsula on the west coast of Greenland; it
is characterized, among Greenland fossil floras, by the almost total
absence of Dicotyledons. We shall be in a better position to
examine the general characters of the Kome plants, and take
note of such species of distinctly Wealden type as are repre-
sented in these northern latitudes, when we have completed the
description of the English Wealden flora.

Heer points out, that in spite of the small number of species
in common, there are enough to form a connecting link between
the Kome flora and those of the Wernsdorfer beds and typical
Wealden districts;' certain nearly allied species are quoted in
support of this assertion. Johnstrup, in the French resume at
the end of the fifth volume of the Meddelelser om Gronland,
speaks of the Kome flora as undoubtedly Urgonian in age.^ The
same flora is referred to by Dawson in a recent number of
"Kature,"* as probably corresponding to the Kootanie of
Canada and the Wealden of England.

AMERICA.

An exceedingly important work has recently been completed by
Prof. Eontaine, in which an abundant and varied flora is described
from the Potomac beds of Korth America. The term *' Potomac "

* Fl. foss. Arct. vols. iii. vi. and vii. See also Meddel. Gronland, vol. v.
1883. For list of fossils see Fl. foss, Arct. vol. vii. pp. 173 et seq.

* Hear, loc. cit. vol. vii. p. 157.

3 Meddel. Gronland, loc. cit. p. 227.

* VoL ilvii. 1893, p. 657.

INTRODUCTION.

XX VU

was first used by McGee on account of the development of typical
rocks of this series along the course of the Potomac river. Most of
the plants from these strata were collected from Virginia, a few
also from Maryland. Fontaine considers it very probable that the
Potomac beds were laid down under conditions very similar to
those characteristic of the European Wealden sediments ; ' he
shows, too, that there is an important floral element in the
Potomac vegetation which finds its nearest representative in the
Wealden rocks of Europe. The same author expresses astonish-
ment at the unusually large number of new species which his
researches have brought to light in the Potomac flora.^ Many of
the specimens which he has figured are without doubt new
forms ; but, in looking carefully over the numerous illustrations,
it is difficult, in some cases, to appreciate the minute differences
which are pointed to as evidence of specific distinctions, and the
impression is left that the list of new species is perhaps rather
longer than it need have been. Be this as it may, the
flora is of exceptional interest, and throws fresh light on the
difficult problem of the evolution of Dicotyledons.

The following species are quoted by Fontaine as identical with,
or closely allied to, European Wealden plants ^ : —

Equisetum Lyelli, Mant. = Uquisetites

Lyelli, Mant.
E. virginicum, Font.
Cladophlebis constricta, Font.
C.falcata, Font.
C. acuta, Font.
C. oblongifolia, Font.
C. brevipennis, Font.
Pecopteris strictinervis, Font.
P. constricta, Font.
P. JBrowniana, Dunk.
Sphenopteris Mantelli, Brong. = Ony-

chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).

Aspidium Dunkeri, Schimp. = Clado-
phlebis Dunkeri (Schimp.).

Asplenium dubium, Font.

Thyrsopteris rarinervis, Font. = Ony-
chiopsis elongata (Geyl.).

T. densifolia, Font.

Dioonites Buchianus, Schimp.

Dioonites Buchianus, var. angusti-
folius, Font.

Tysonia Marylandica, Font.

Sphenolepidium virginicum, Font.

S. Kurrianum, Heer.

S. Sternberg ianum (Dunk.), Heer.

The flora, as a whole, Fontaine considers to range from the

1 Potomac Flora, p. 62.

2 Ibid. p. 334.

3 pp. 350 et seq.

XXVlll INTBODrCTION.

Wealden, through the TJrgonian, and probably including some
Cenomanian forms.

Lester "Ward has discussed the geologic age of the Potomac
flora in a paper published before the appearance of Fontaine's
Monograph ; in a table intended to show the floral elements of
this flora he demonstrates the predominance of the Wealden
facies.^ The evidence of the plants is obviously in favour of
assigning these Eastern American strata to the Wealden period,
but Ward points to the vertebrate fossils as indicative of a
Jurassic age, thus furnishing another example of an apparent
discrepancy between plants and animals as indices of geological
position. He does not wish to argue for the Jurassic age of the
Potomac flora, but remarks that **the most it is intended to claim
is that, if stratigraphical relations and the animal remains shall
require its reference to the Jurassic, the plants do not present
any serious obstacle to such reference."^

Knowlton,^ in his paper on the fossil wood and lignite of
the Potomac beds, has also pointed out this divergence of
opinion between palseobotanists and palaeozoologists.

Newberry,^ in view of the large number of Angiosperms in this
flora, expressed himself in favour of a higher rather than a lower
horizon than the Wealden. The same author, in the paper
referred to, gives an account of the flora of the Great Falls Coal-
field, Montana ; this coal-basin lies on the northern slope of the
Belt and Highwood Mountains, subordinate folds of the Rocky
Mountain system. After speaking of Fontaine's determination of
the Great Falls plants, to whom they had been submitted for
examination, Newberry concludes that these identifications ** prove
conclusively the general identity of the geological horizons of the
Potomac group, the Great Falls group, the Kootanie group of
Canada, and the Kome group of Greenland, and confirm the view
advocated by Prof. Fontaine and myself that the Potomac group

1 Amer. Journ, ser. iii. vol. xxxvi, 1888, p. 126.

2 Ibid. p. 131.

3 Bull. U.S. Geol. Surv. No. 56, 1889, p. 38.
* Amer. Journ. vol. xli. 1891, p. 194.

INTEODUCTIOlf.

XXIX

is Lower Cretaceous and not Jurassic ; "^ and, in another place, he
adds : " With equal certainty we can assert that the Potomac,
the Kootanie, and the Kome groups represent perhaps distinct
but closely related epochs of the I^eocomian or Lower Cretaceous
of the Old World." ^

The following list shows the close resemblance between this
Great Falls flora and the Old World Wealden : —

TJiyrsopteris rarinervis. Font.

A plant near to Fodozatnites distanti-
nervis, Font.

Cladophlebis parra, Font.

Sequoia Reichenbachi, Heer.

Pecopteris Browniana, Dunk. = Clado-
phlebis Broivniana (Dunk.) .

Aspidium Fredericksburgense, Font.

Sphenolepidium virginicum, Font.

A plant allied to Thyrsipteris brevi-
folia, Font.

A plant near to Cladophlebis distans,
Font.

Thyrsopteris insignis, Font.

Carpolithus virginiensis, Font.

A plant near to Cycadiospermum rotun-

datum, Font.
Fecopteris microdonta, Font.
Thyrsopteris brevipennis, Font.
A plant near to Cladophlebis constricta,

Font.
Chiropteris TFilliamsii, Newb.
C. Spatulata, Newb.
Zamites apertus, Newb.
Bniera brevifolia, Newb.
Cladophlebis angustifolia, Newb.
Sequoia acutifolia, Newb.
Fodozamites nervosa, Newb.
Oleandra arctica, Heer.

In a more recent paper Fontaine^ fully endorses the opinions
expressed by Newberry as to the age of the Great Falls group
of Montana, and records the following additional species from
this flora: —

Equisetum Lyelli ?, Mant.
Aspidium Montanense, Font.
A. monocarpum, Font.
A. angustipinnatum, Font., var. Mon-
tanense, Font.
Fecopteris Montanensis, Font.
F. Browniana, ? Dunk.
Cladophlebis heterophylla. Font.
Osmunda dicksonioides. Font.

Thyrsopteris microloba, ? var. alata,

Font.
T. rarinervis. Font.
Sequoia ambigua, ? Heer.
S. rigida, Heer.

Sphenolepidium virginicum, Font.
Taxodmm [Glyptostrobus) ramosium,

Font.
Zamites Montanensis, Font.

One of the new species in the above list, Aspidium Montanense,
seems to come very near to Cladophlebis DunTceri (Schimp.). Cf.

1 Araer. Journ. vol. xli. 1891, p. 193.

2 Ibid. p. 195.

3 Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus. vol. xv. 1892, p. 488.

XXX , INTEODUCTION.

Fontaine's figures, pi. Ixxxii. and PL VII. Fig. 3 of the present
Catalogue.

In a posthumous work by Lesquereux on the Flora of the
Dakota group, edited by Knowlton, we find this American flora
correlated with that of the Harz Quadersandstein, also with the
floras of Niederschona and Quedlinburg.^ Reference has been
made to these German floras because certain of their floral elements
show a close relationship to members of the typical Wealden
vegetation ; in the Dakota flora there seems to be hardly the
same reason for comparison with the Wealden floras of Southern
England and !N"orthern Germany. The two species Gleichenia
NordensTcioldi^ Heer, and Sequoia Reichenhachi^ Gein., are common
to the Dakota and Potomac floras ; several species also occur in the
Kootanie flora, in the I^eocomian of Westphalia and the TJrgonian
of Kome, but we do not find a distinct "Wealden facies in the
Cenomanian Dakota flora.^

For a critical account of the Cretaceous rocks of America
reference should be made to the Cretaceous Correlation papers
by C. A. White, which have appeared in a recent number of
the United States Geological Survey Bulletins.^ The Potomac
formation is provisionally assigned to the base of the Cretaceous
system, but stress is laid on the difficulty of arriving at any very
definite conclusions as to the real age of this widespread deposit.
It is pointed out that a large proportion of the plant remains
figured by Fontaine from Yirginia were found in rounded and
lenticular masses of indurated clay imbedded in the Sandstone or
Arkose deposit: "One is therefore disposed," says White, "to
inquire whether the plants may not represent a somewhat older
deposit than is that part of the Potomac formation in which they
are found."*

No attempt is made in this Correlation paper to correlate the
American divisions of the Cretaceous system with their European

1 Dakota Flora, p. 20.

2 Ibid. pp. 222 et seq. *' Table of distribution.'

3 Bull. U.S. Geol. Surv. No. 82, 1891.
* Ibid. p. 90.

nrrEODFCTioN. xxxi

equivalents, because it is believed ''that mucli more extensive
studies of these formations ought to be made before any such
correlation can be satisfactorily established."^

Referring to Newberry's discovery of Potomac species in the
Kootanie beds of the Great Falls of Missouri river in Montana,
"White points out that, although some of the plants may be
identical, it is certain the waters in which the two formations
were deposited were geographically widely separated.^

CANADA.

In a table of correlation given by Newberry ^ in a paper on the
Cretaceous floras of North America, he places the Kootanie plant-
bearing beds of Canada on the same horizon with the European
"Wealden. Dawson * considers these beds as representatives of the
TJrgonian or Neocomian series; he compares them to the Kome
beds of Greenland. There are, however, no typical Wealden
plants included in Dawson's list ; a comparison is made between
Salishuria {Ginlcgo) lepida^ Heer, and certain leaves described by
Dunker from the Deister Wealden, but no reference is given to
indicate what particular leaves are referred to. The only plant-
beds of America with which Dawson compares the Kootanie fossils
are some in Maryland, in which Tyson discovered large Cycadean
stems and which he referred to a Wealden age.*

JAPAN.

In 1877 Geyler* described and figured twelve species of
** Jurassic" plants from the valley of the Tetorigawa in Kaga,

1 BuU. U.S. Geol. Surv. No. 82, p. 208.

2 Ibid, p. 252.

3 Trans. N. York. Ac. Sci. vol. v. 1885-86, p. 135.

* Trans. E. Soc. Canada, vol. iii. 1885.
s Ibid. p. 18.

* PaliBontograpliica, vol. xxiv. p. 221.

XXXll INTRODUCTION.

and in comparing this flora with those of other countries a
resemblance is pointed out between the Japanese plants and
some species described by Heer from Siberia and Spitzbergen.

N'ine years later Matajoro Yokoyama^ contributed a paper on
the Jurassic plants of Kaga, Hida and Echizen, and adds a list
of species from these localities. At a later date^ he gives a
much fuller account of this exceedingly interesting flora ; and
a detailed comparison is instituted with floras of other countries,
the Jurassic floras of Siberia, Spitzbergen, the Yorkshire coast,
Russia, China, India and Australia, also with the Wealden of
Europe and the infra-Liassic of Tongking.

A reference is made by Lester Ward' in his ** Geographical
Distribution of Eossil Plants" to Yokoyama's earlier paper, and
the suggestion offered that possibly these Japanese plants may
prove to be of Lower Cretaceous age, and that the reference by
Godfrey of the Kiushia leaf-beds to a Cretaceous horizon may
have been correct.* The evidence afforded by the ferns is certainly
in favour of Ward's suggestion.

In 1890 Nathorst® made an important contribution to our
knowledge of Japanese palseobotany. The plants from some of
the localities are compared principally to "Wealden species, and
from other places there seems to be a mixture of Jurassic with
"Wealden and TJrgonian species.

Although the titles to the papers of Geyler and Yokoyama
lead us to expect floras of distinctly Jurassic facies, we shall
have occasion to point out in the description of certain English
Wealden species a striking similarity, if not specific identity,
between them and some of the Japanese plants.

The following list includes the plants mentioned by Yokoyama
and Nathorst: —

1 Bull. Geol. Soc. Japan, pt. B, vol. i. No. 1, 1886.

2 Joum. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. 1890, p. 1.

3 U.S. Geol. Surv. Ann. Eep. No. 8, p. 789.

* Quart. Joum. Geol. Soc. vol. xxxiv. 1878, p. 546.

» Denksch. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol. Ivii. 1890, p. 43.

INTEODUCTION.

xxxm

Thyraopteris Murrayana^ Brong.

T. prisca, Eich.

T. kayensis, Yok.

Dicksonia gracilis, Hr.

D. acutiloba, Hr., var.

D. cf. Glehniana, Hr.

D. nephrocarpa, Bunb.

Onychiopsis elongata (Geyl.).

Adiantites Heerianus, Yok.

A. Kochibeanus, Yok.

A. laneeuSy Yok.

Asplenium Whitbiense, Brong.

A. aryutulmrij Hr.

A. distans, Hr.

Sphenopteris, sp. =Riiffordia Gopperti

(Dunk.).
Fecopteris exilis,^ Phill.
P. Saportana, Hr.
Tceniopieris (?).
Macrotceniopteris, cf. Jiichihofent,

Schenk.
Sngenopteris, sp . = ? aS. JIf a?? ^^//i (Dunk. ) .
JEquisetum ushimarense, Yok.
AnomozamiteSf sp.

(and

Nihsonta orientaKsy Hr.

iV. ozoana, Yok.

Jf. Nipponensis, Yok.

Dioomtes Kotoli, Yok.

Zamif.es parvifolius, Geyl.

Fodozamites lanceolatus, Lind.

six varieties).
P. tenuistriatus, Geyl.
P. Beinii, Geyl.
Dictyozamites indieus, Fstm., var.

distans.
J), grossinervis, Yok.
Cycadeospermum japonicum, Geyl.
Ginhgodium Nathot sti, Yok.
Ginkgo digitata, Brong.
G^. cf. /«j9eV?«, Hr.
G^. Sibirica, Hr.
Czekanotvskia rigida, Hr. (?).
Taxites, sp.

Finns, cf . prodromus, Hr.
P. Nordenskjoldi, Hr.
Palissya, sp.

Vallionerites jurassiciis, Hr. (?).
Carpolithes ginkgoides, Yok.

The following are the species enumerated by I^athorst : —

Onychiopsis elongata (Geyl.).

Cladophlebis, sp.

Cf. Nilssonia orientatis, Hr.

iV. cf. Schaumburgensis, Dunk.

Zamiophyllum Buchianum (Ett.).

Z. Naumanni, Nath.

Fecopteris Geylerinna, Nath. = CTa<fo-
phlebis JDunkeri (Schimp.), and (in
part) Weichselia Manielli {BroJig.).

Lycopodites, sp.

Sphenopteris Gopperti, Dunk. =
Riiffordta Gopperti (Dunk.).
Bicksoniopteris Naumanni, Nath.
Fterophyllum, cf. cutchense, Morris.
Fcnpteris, cf. Browniana, Dunk.
Macrotceniopteris ? marginata, Nath.

NEW ZEALAi^D.

From some specimens of plants brought by Hochstetter from

the province of Auckland, between Waikato and Whaingarva,

Unger described and figured two species of ferns which he

named Asplenium palceopter is { = Sphenopteris Fittoni, sp. nov.) and

Klukia exilia (Phill.).

XXXIV INTBODIJCTION.

Polypodium Sochstetteri. The formation from which these were
collected is spoken of as probably Wealden in age.^

The preceding sketch is by no means intended to convey the
idea that all the plant-bearing beds referred to are probably
of Wealden age.

A more critical and detailed comparison of the species men-
tioned in the above lists will be made after the descriptions of
the English specimens have been completed. Very possibly some
of the plants which have been quoted as Jurassic in age may
have to be correlated eventually with the typical "Wealden
floras; but in this introductory review there have simply been
given those plant lists which include species of undoubted
AVealden affinities, or, in other words, of which Wealden floral
elements form a more or less conspicuous part. The plants
described by Bartholni^ from Bornholm are spoken of as Jurassic
in age, but it seems not at all unlikely thsit the evidence will
be found to be rather in favour of a Lower Cretaceous
horizon. It may be found that Wealden plant beds are also
represented in Sweden ; at least one characteristic species,
Weichselia MantelU (Brong.), has been recorded from Swedish
strata.

There are other records of plants to which allusion might be
made as including at least one Wealden species, but it may
suffice to mention two instances. In a notice by Tate in the
Journal of the Geological Society for 1867 there is a plant
figured under the name Sphenopteris antipodiim, Tate,^ from the
Geelhoutboon beds in the Uitenhage series (Lower Cretaceous)
of South Africa. This fossil is compared by the author of the
species to Sphenopteris Jugleri^ Ett., but there appears to be a
much closer resemblance to Onychiopsis {Sphenopteris) MantelU
(Brong.), and, indeed, I have decided to include Tate's fragment
under this characteristic Wealden species.*

* Reise Fregatte Novara, vol. i. Abth. ii. p. 1.

2 Bot. Tid. Bot. For. Kjovenhavn, vol. xviii. Heft i. 1892, p. 12.
' Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xxiii. 1867, p. 146.

* p. 44.

INTEODTJCTION. XXXV

From the Cretaceous flora of Niederschona in Saxony, Engel-
hardt^ has recently recorded this same species, Sphenopteris
Mantelli, Brong., but unfortunately he does not give figures of
any of the specimens.

iN"o mention has been made of those countries or districts in
which fossiliferous strata have been described containing only
animal fossils, but which are probably homotaxial with typical
Wealden strata. The supposed Wealden rocks of Spain described
by Linares'' and the strata, presumably of the same age, of
Columbia, South America, described by Major Plant,^ afford
instances of such fresh-water beds.

In the Second Part of this Catalogue it is intended to com-
plete the description of the English Wealden plants. We shall
then be in a much better position to deal with such general
questions as (i) the distribution of Wealden plants throughout
the world; (ii) the value of such plants as evidence of geologic
age ; (iii) the Wealden climate ; (iv) the relation of the Wealden
flora to the vegetation of earlier and later periods.

1 Abh. Isis. Dresden, 1891, p. 79.

2 Ann. Soc. Espan. Hist. Nat. vol, vii. 1878, p. 87.

3 Proc. Lit. Phil. Soc. Manchester, vol. xvi. 1877, p. 50.

XXX VI

INTEODTTCTIOX.

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HfTEODUCTION.

XXXVU

List of Thallophtta, Charophtta, Buyophtta, and Pteeidophtta
described in the present volume, with the geological horizon,
locality and local of the type specimens.

t SPECIES CONFINED TO ENGLAND.

THALLOPHYTA.

t Algites valdensis, sp. nov., Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British Museum.)
t Algites catenelloides, sp. nov., Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British Museum.)

CHAROPHTTA.

t Ghara KnowUoni, sp. nov., Fairlight Clays, Cliff End, near Hastings. (British
Museum.)

BRYOPHYTA.

t Marchantites Zeilleri, sp. nov., Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

PLANTS INCERTJS SEDIS.

Specimen A. Fairlight Clays. (British Museum.)
Specimen B. Fairlight Clays. (British Museum.)

PTERIDOPHYTA.

Equisetites Lyelli, Mant., Hastings
Sands, Pounceford.

Equisetites Burchardti, Dunk., Hast-
ings Sands, near Biickeburg, West-
phalia.

Equisetites Tokotjamcey sp, nov.. Fair-
light Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.), Hast-
ings Sands, Tilgate Forest.

Onychiopsis elongata (Geyl.), Bath-
onian (?), Valley of Tetorigawa,
Province Kaga, Japan.

t Acrostichopteris Riiffordi, sp. nov.,
Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne.
(British Museum.)

Matonidium Gopperti (Ett.), Hast-
ings Sands, Harrel, near Biicke-
burg, "Westphalia. (Berlin.)

Protopteris Witteana, Schenk, Hast-
ings Sands, Stemmen, near Hann-
over. (Collection of Obergerichts-
director Witte, Hannover.)

Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.)
Sands, near Biickeburg.

XXXVUl

INTBODUCTIOir.

VTEUIBOVBYTA— continued.

Ruffordxa Goppei'ti, var. latifolia. Fair-
light Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

t Cladophlebis longipennis, sp. nov.,
Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne.
(British Museum.)

Cladophlebis Albertsii (Dunk.), Hast-
ings Sands, Dornberg, near Biele-
feld, "Westphalia.

Cladophlebis Browniana (Dunk.), Hast-
ings Sands, Siintel, "Westphalia.

Cladophlebis Dunkeri (Schimp.), Hast-
ings Sands, Stemmen, near Hann-
over.

t Sphenopteris Fontainei, sp. nov.,
Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne.
(British Museum.)

Sphenopt'ris Fittoni, sp. nov.. Fair-
light Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

Weichselia ManteUi (Brong.), Hastings
Sands, Tilgate Forest.

Tmniopteris Beyrichii (Schenk), Bohl-
horst, near Minden. (Berlin.)

t Tceniopteris Beyrichii, var. superba,
Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne.
(British Museum.)

t Tceniopteris Dawsoni, sp. nov., Fair-
light Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

Sagenopteris ManteUi (Dunk.), Hast-
ings Sands, Borglok, near Osna-
briick.

Microdictyon Dunkeri (Schenk), Hast-
ings Sands, Osterwald, etc. (Berlin
and Gottingen.)

t Phyllopteris acutifolia, sp. nov.,
Fairlight Clays, Ecclesbourne.
(British Museum.)

Dictyophyllum Roemtri, Schenk, Hast-
ings Sands, Obernkirchen. (Wiirz-
burg.)

Nathorstia valdensis, sp. nov.. Fair-
light Clays, Ecclesbourne. (British
Museum.)

Ttmpskya Schimper, Corda. (? Strass-
burg.)

NOTES ON THE
COLLECTIONS EEFEREED TO IN PAET I.

Beckles Coll. — Some good specimens oi Eqwisetites and Weichselia from
this Collection.

Dawson Coll. — Several examples of Wealden plants from the neigh-
bourhood of Hastings.

Mantell Coll. — This Collection includes various plants from Tilgate
Forest and other localities.

Rufford Coll. — The majority of the specimens described in this
Catalogue were collected by Mr. RufFord from Wealden
strata at Ecclesbourne and other localities near Hastings.
With the exception of a few specimens presented by Mr.
Ruflford to the Museum in 1885, most of the plants have
been acquired by purchase since that date.
In addition to the specimens contained in the above collections

there are a few which were presented by Mrs. Burnett and Mr.

J. E. H. Peyton.

LIST OF WOODCUTS.

PAGE.

Fig. 1. Chara Knowltoni, sp. nov 13

2. Equisetites Yokoyamce^ sp. nov 33

3 and 3*. „ „ 33

4. Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.) 50

5. „ „ 50

6. „ „ 52

7. Matomdium Gopperti (Ett.) 66

8. „ „ 67

9. Cladophlehis Alherisii (Dunk.) 97

10. Spheriopteris Fittoni, 81^. nov Ill

11. „ » Ill

12. Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.) 120

13. „ „ 120

14. Tceniopteris Beyrichii {Schenk), Y&r. superha ... 127

15. Tcemopteris Dawsoni, sp. nov 128

16. Dictyophylkcm Eoemeri, ^chenk 141

17. „ „ 141

WEALDEN PLANTS.

Group THALLOPHYTA.

A heterogeneous group of plants, many of which consist of a
single cell, or of a thallus without any external differentiation
into stem and leaf structures. Some of the higher members have,
on the other hand, well-defined external and internal diff'eren-
tiation. The group is distinguished from the higher plants by
the absence of true roots and vascular (conducting) tissue. In
this respect it agrees with the Bryophyta ; but in the latter the
division of the vegetative body into stem and leaf structures is
more pronounced, and the method of sexual reproduction and
alternation of generations in the life-cycle are characters which
separate the two groups.

Class ALG^.

Plants provided with chlorophyll, and therefore capable of de-
composing carbonic acid gas, assimilating the carbon and giving
off oxygen, under the influence of sunlight. The vegetative body
occurs in all forms, from that of a single cell to a complicated
multicellular structure, made up of assimilating, conducting, pro-
tective, and other tissues.

The custom of naming the innumerable markings or impressions
which constitute many of the so-called fossil AlytB by the same
generic titles as are applied to recent seaweeds is to be strongly
deprecated. Several observers have furnished ample proof of the
exceedingly small value to be attached to the determinations of
** algal" impressions, and have thus given a wholesome check to
the indiscriminate naming of these most doubtful fossils. The
application of such terms as Caulerpites, Chondrites, etc., to
markings on stone which have a greater or less resemblance to
the recent genera Caulerpa, Chondria or Chondrus, is very likely
to lead us astray, and to be especially misleading to those who
are apt to draw conclusions as to the past history of living genera
from the occurrence of their names in fossil lists. As an instance

2 ALQM.

of the misuse of one of the names, Caulerpites, the remarks of
Murray on fossil Caulerpas are worthy of repetition. In his recent
paper on an example of this genus from the Kimeridge clay he
says^ — "I have examined nearly every species known to science

of those {Caulerpa sp.) at present existing of all the

described fossil Caulerpce or Caulerpites of which I have seen
specimens and figures, there is not one which might not with
equal propriety be assigned a place elsewhere within or without
the vegetable kingdom." In looking at the specimens of Murray's
new species, Caulerpa Carruthersii, one easily recognises the
resemblance to the recent genus, and it is difficult to imagine to
what other source such impressions could be referred. It is
somewhat surprising, however, to find what deep and well-defined
depressions have been left in the rock by this Oolitic seaweed.

It is superfluous to point out what very little value we can attach
to external form in many of the carbonaceous impressions on rock
surfaces ; the same general habit of thallus being found in several
recent genera, and indeed in different families. Unless, therefore,
we are dealing with examples where the fossil clearly shows
a habit strikingly similar in form to that of a well-marked and
distinct recent genus, or with specimens exhibiting a well-preserved
internal structure, or clear indications of characteristic reproductive
organs, by making use of recent generic names we are rather
hindering than advancing the knowledge of fossil phycology. For
these reasons it is safer to be content with merely pointing out
such living genera as approach most nearly in habit the algal-
like impressions, and not commit ourselves to a doubtful and
misleading affinity by referring the fossil forms to particular genera
or families.

"With a view to having some general term which may serve as a
provisional generic name for fossils, which in all probability come
under the head of Algce, but which it is impossible with any
degree of certainty to refer to a definite recent type, I propose
to use the word Algites.

Schlotheim,^ and also Sternberg in his earlier writings, adopts
the term Algacites as a comprehensive title for all fossil seaweeds.
In the later parts of the *' Flora der Vorwelt " those "algal"

1 Phycol. Mem. pt. i. 1892, p. 13.

2 Petrefactenkunde, p. 38.

ALQM. 8

remains, originally mentioned as species of the genus Algacites, are
referred to various recent genera to which some resemblance in
external form is considered to exist. The name Algacites has since
been replaced by other terms, and appears to be no longer used
as a general designation of fossil AlgcB of doubtful affinity. There
is another term, Fucoides, which has also been used by Sternberg
and many other palaeobotanists in an equally wide sense, but such
a name naturally suggests a certain resemblance to the recent
genus FuGus, and is thus unsuitable if used in a more com-
prehensive sense.

This suggestion as to the use of a provisional and wide generic
designation, such as Algites, may be considered a retrogressive
step and likely to lessen our accurate knowledge of fossil Algm.
If the data were generally adequate, and afforded sufficient
indication of botanic affinity, any such term would be superfluous.
"When we consider how exceptional it is to find ourselves in a
position to make definite statements, founded on satisfactory
evidence, as to the family of AlgcB in which fossil forms should be
placed, it must be admitted that we are lessening the possibilities
of error by the return to more general and less definite terms.

Botanists would naturally prefer to pass over such markings
or casts which are too imperfect to admit of identification ; but in
spite of their apparent worthlessness from a botanical point of view,
they may be of service to the geologist, and indeed the most
fragmentary material may become important when more perfect
specimens have been discovered. Thus it is better to place on
record even those exceedingly doubtful fossils, and to adopt a
provisional name in the hope that future discoveries may throw
more light upon family or generic affinity. Generic names, such
as Sphenopteris^ Fecopteris, etc., of Brongniart have served a most
useful purpose, and by degrees these are being replaced by more
definite botanical titles as fertile specimens are discovered, and so
afford clues as to natural affinity. As another instance of a
convenient term we may mention Rachiopteris, which Williamson
has applied to those fragments of fern petioles which it is not
possible to refer to particular genera.

4 ALGITES.

Genus ALGITES, gen. nov.

A generic term for those fossils which in all probability belong
to the class Algce, but which, by reason of the absence of
reproductive organs, internal structure, or characters of a trust-
worthy nature in the determination of affinity, cannot be referred
with any degree of certainty to a particular recent genus or
family.

1.— Algites valdensis, gen. et sp. nov.

Type. Carbonaceous impression from Ecclesbourne, near Hastings
(Fairlight clay). British Museum. PL I. Fig. 1. Eegistered
number V. 2857.

Thallus in the form of dichotomously divided branches radiating
from a centre ; the branches terminating bluntly.

The apparently dichotomous habit and the shape of the thallus
at once suggest a resemblance to a number of algal genera, such
as Chondrus, Zonaria, Bictyotay Rhodymenia, Nitophyllum, and
others. Chondrus crupus (L.), Stackh., seems the most likely
species among recent forms with which to compare the "Wealden
impressions ; its more resistant fronds appear better adapted for
preservation than the more delicate structures of Rhodymenia or
Zonaria. So far as habit is concerned there is indeed a striking
resemblance between Algites valdensis and Nitophyllum Bonnemaisoni
(Lyngb.)^ as figured by Harvey ; but an equally strong resemblance
may be traced on comparing the fossil specimens with examples
of other recent genera. The extreme variability of Chondrus
crispus is well known, and, as Mr. Murray pointed out to me, the
broader type of thallus, such as we have in Algites valdensis, is
indicative of quiet pools or gently flowing water, and in marked
contrast to the narrow filiform branches of specimens growing in
swiftly running currents. This difference of habit, and its close
connection with the mode of life, is worth noting with reference
to fossil forms, although in the present instance it would hardly
be admissible to draw any conclusions from the breadth of the
thallus branches when we are in doubt as to generic relationship.

* Harvey, pi. xxiii. fig. 2.

ALGITES. 5

The genus Chondrites is suggestive of supposed affinity with
Chondria, but the definition given by Brongniart^ shows that it
was intended for the reception of forms with cylindrical branches.
In Schimper's ** Traite de Paleontologie " the genus Chondrides^
is defined as comprising fossils with cylindrical fronds, often
repeatedly dichotomising, and possessing characters united in
Chondria and Furcellaria among living algae. Those fossil algee
with flattened fronds are referred to the genus Spharococcides, a
name previously used by Sternberg as Sphcerococcites, and defined
by him as follows: — ^'Frons subcoriacea, plana dichotoma vel
pinnata aut filiformis."^

Schimper includes this genus in the Floridea, and considerably
extends Sternberg's definition.

Seeing that the specimens from the "Wealden rocks do not conform
exactly to any of these definitions, and that such terms are, to some
extent, associated with definite genera of recent seaweeds, it is
better to make use of a wider designation, such as Algites.

There are some few fossils previously described from Mesozoic
and Tertiary rocks, to which Algites valdensis shows a certain
amount of resemblance.

Under the name Chondrides dolichophyllus Squinabol* has
described a specimen from Liguria which has a general habit
similar to the Wealden species, but differs in the narrower and
longer branches. Heer's figure of Gyrophyllites Theohaldi, Hr.,
in the Foss. fl. Helvet,^ shows an analogous type of plant, but
the generic name which he adopts was instituted by Glocker^ in
1841 for a Cretaceous fossil which resembles the genus Caulerpa
much more strongly than the flattened branching algae with which
the present specimens agree. From the Jurassic rocks of East
Yorkshire Leckenby' has described a supposed alga, Fucoides
erectuSy which slightly resembles Algites valdensis ; but the
presence of a midrib and the delicate nature of the lateral parts
of the branches are much more suggestive of Hepatic affinities.

^ Tableau, p. 9. See also Prodrome, p. 20, where the older name Gigartinites
is defined.

2 Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 168.
' Flor. Vorwelt, fasc. vii. p. 28.

* Contrib. Fl. foss. Liguria, vol. i. Tav. B, p. 11.
» PI. xlv. fig. 1.

* Nova Acta Ac. Caes. Leop.-Car. vol. xix. supp. ii. p. 322.

' Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xx. p. 74, pi. xi. figs. 3a and 3b.

6 ALQITES.

The Wealden fossils previously classed as Alga are not of such im-
portance as to require serious attention. Dunker's Confervites fisma^
is definitely stated by Schenk,'^ after a careful examination of the
type specimen, to be a rachis fragment of Onychiopsis (Sphenopteris)
Mantelli (Brong.). The curious marking figured by Heer^ from
Almargem in Portugal as Tanidium lusitanicum, Hr., has little
claim to be accepted as a fossil plant, so far at least as it is possible
to judge from the plate. Ettingshausen * figures three species
from the Wealden of Austria, Sphcerococcites chondriceformis, Ett.,
Confer vites setaceus, Ett., and Sargassites Partschii, Ett., but these
do not afford trustworthy evidence as to the existence of any
particular family oi Alga.

In the case of the English specimens there is an obvious objection
to their reference to seaweeds in the fact that they are found in a
supposed fresh-water rock ; this, however, does not appear to me at
all a fatal objection. Marine algae are abundant enough at a
river's mouth, and, indeed, extend some distance from the place
where the fresh water flows into the sea. In the delta deposits of
the Wealden rivers there might easily be embedded the fronds of
shallow-water seaweeds.

There is a striking resemblance, too close to be entirely ignored,
between some forms of the liverwort Rehoulia hemisphcerica (L.),
Eadd., and the fossil which I have described as an alga.

V. 2857. PL I. Pigs. 1 and 2.

One large and fairly perfect specimen of Algites valdensis; on
the same slab is a smaller example of this species. The ends of
the branches are in some cases more or less torn, but appear to
have originally terminated bluntly. Pragraents of Algites catend-
loides, sp. nov., scattered over the rock surface, as small branched
structures.

In addition to the species already mentioned, cf. Caulerpa arcuata,^
Schimp., from the Plysch. Near Hastings. BecUes Coll.

V. 2857a. The reverse piece of the previous specimen.

^ "Wealdenbildung, p. 1, pi. i. fig 1.

2 PalsDontographica, vol. xix. p. 208.

3 Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, pl.xx.

* Abb. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, pi. iii. figs. 1-3 and 12.

* Trait, pal. veg. Atlas, pi. iii. fig. 6.

ALGITES. 7

V. 2857J. In these specimens some of the branches show
apparently perfect and blunt terminations. Fragments oi Algitei
catenelloides. Near Hastings. Beekles Coll.

V. 2857<?. Portions of three specimens with the branching habit
clearly seen. Traces of A. catenelloides. Kear Hastings.

Beckles Coll.

2.— Algites catenelloides, gen. et sp. nov.

Ti/pe. Small carbonaceous fragments on the same piece of rock
with the type specimen of A. valdensis. British Museum. V. 2857.
PI. I. Figs. 1 and 2.

Small carbonaceous impressions of an apparently dichotomously
branched thallus ; the branches show indistinct signs of constrictions,
suggesting a jointed structure, as in Catenella.

These small branched fragments, which show in places what
appear to be elliptical joints, as represented in PI. I. Fig. 2a, are
closely associated with the specimens of the previous species. I am
indebted to Miss Barton for the suggestion that Catenella approaches
most closely in habit to these delicate impressions ; the form of the
thallus, both as regards the branching, and what appear to be
elliptical members making up the branched axes, has a striking
similarity in the fossil and recent specimens. Another fact of
importance is the frequent association of CJiondrus crispus and
Catenella on our coasts at the present day. This occurrence, in
such close proximity, of two fossil forms, whose external form is
in close agreement with two recent genera, is of some value as
confirmatory evidence in the question of botanic afiinity. It must,
at the same time, be candidly admitted that no great importance
ought to be attached to identifications or comparisons based on mere
impressions of external form.

Yast numbers of impressions, animal trails and markings, which
owe their origin to many and exceedingly diverse causes, have been
assigned to that group of plants which has come to be regarded
as the receptacle for all doubtful specimens which often afford
little or no evidence of any vegetable nature whatsoever. The
result of this has been to intensify that spirit of scepticism which
ought always to influence the conduct of palaeobotanists. There
is, on the other hand, the danger of allowing ourselves to go too

8 ALGITES.

far, and to be unduly prejudiced by such extreme expressions of
opinion as those of l^athorst and his followers. In the present
instance I do not wish to make a definite assertion that these two
species of Wealden fossils are undoubtedly fragments of Chondrus
and Catenella, but merely indicate such points of agreement as
appear to exist.

These pieces of Algites catenelloides^ Mr. Murray reminds me,
may also be compared to small Laurencias.

V. 2857. PL I. Figs. 1 and 2. Several pieces of the branched
thallus close to the specimens of Algites vaUensis.

V. 2857 J and V. 2857c. A few fragments associated with
A. valdensis on the same piece of rock. Kear Hastings.

Beckles Coll.

CHAKACE^.

Group CHAEOPHYTA, Migula.

Family CHAEACE^.

The Characece or Stoneworts possess certain characters, both
structural and biological, which denote a considerable advance
in organization beyond the less complex Thallophyta. On the
other hand there are sufficient differences between them and the
Bryophyta to exclude them from that group. If we follow
Migula, who has recently written an exhaustive account of the
Characece for Eabenhorst's ''Kryptogamen Flora,"^ and adopt a
new class division, Charophyta, we shall best represent the isolated
position of these plants, and recognize that they occupy a place
between the Thallophyta and the Bryophyta.

Genus CHARA, Yaillant. L.

[Linn. Hist. Acad. Gen. Plant, 1737, p. 326.]
[Vaillant, Hist. Ac. E. Sci. Paris, 1719.]

Yaillant^ was the first to apply this generic term to the widely-
spread Stoneworts ; he enumerates nine species in an article
published in 1719. The ''fruits" of Chara when first discovered
in Tertiary rocks of the Paris basin were described by Lamarck^
under the name GyrogoniteSf and not recognized as plant remains.
In 1812 Leman* contributed a **note sur la Gyrogonite," and
pointed out the real nature of Lamarck's fossils.

It is convenient to apply the name Chara to those fossil remains
which in all probability belong to the Characece. The material

» Vol. V. p. 93.

2 Hist. Ac. R. Sci. 1719, p. 17, pi. iii.

' Ann. Mus. Hist. Nat. vol. ix. pi. xv. fig 7 and vol. xv. pi, xxiii. fig. 12.
* Nouv. Bull. Sci. Paris, vol. iii. Ann. 6, No. 58, p. 108.
In Zittel's "Handbuch der Palaeontologie," Abth. ii. p. 43, the reference
to Leman's paper is given as the '* Annales" (vol. xv.) instead of Nouv. Bull.

10 CHARA.

which usually supplies the evidence for the existence of these
plants in rocks of various ages, is too imperfect to enable us to
decide accurately whether the fragments should be referred to
Chara, Nitella^ or other genera of Characece.

In view of this diflSiculty it is better, therefore, to describe all
the Characeous ''fruits" by the term Chara, if we regard the
generic name, when applied to fossils, rather in the sense of a
representative of a family than of the genus Chara as defined in
the more recent works on this anomalous group.

"We frequently find the statement that the oldest known fossil
Charas are those which have been found in beds of Muschelkalk
age from Moscow ; but in no case have I been able to discover a
reference to the author who first noted this occurrence. It is by
no means improbable that we mu&t go much farther back in the
geologic series to find the earliest traces of Chara ''fruits." In
a paper in the American Journal ef Science for 1889, Knowlton^
gives three figures of some "problematic organisms" which it is
difiicult to believe can be anything but Chara oogonia. They are
described as minute spirally-grooved bodies 1*50 mm. — 1*80 mm.
long, and 1*70 mm. broad, with a small aperture at one end; these
bodies occur in large numbers in Lower Devonian-Carboniferous
sandstones, and were mentioned in 1873 by Meek,^ who spoke of
them as showing all the external characters of Chara. Knowlton
recognizes the strong likeness to this genus, but quotes various
opinions which throw a good deal of doubt on the plant-nature of
these small fossils. One objection is that the fossil bodies have on
their surface the marks of more than five cells, the number making
up the envelope of recent Chara oospores ; and in the living forms
these spirally-placed cells are twisted to the left, but in the fossils
to the right; this, however, Knowlton suggests is "no vital
objection to the supposition that this might have been an archaic
or original type from which the more modern forms have
developed."^

Other arguments against their Characeous affinities are (i) the

* I am indebted to Mr. Davies Sherborn for calling my attention to this paper
and to Ulrich's genus Moellerina mentioned below. Amer, Journ. ser. iii. vol.
xxxvii. p. 202.

2 Report Geol. Surv. Ohio, vol. i. pt. ii. p. 219.

3 Loc. cit. p. 204.

CHAEA. 1 1

large numbers uniformly scattered through the rock-mass, and
(ii) their occurrence in strata formed in water of considerable
depth.

The generic name Calcisphcera was proposed by "Williamson ^ for
certain small bodies common in Carboniferous Limestone rocks in
the neighbourhood of Moel, North "Wales ; this name is applied to
the American fossils by Knowlton with the specific designation
C. Lemoni, Knowl. .

Prom the same geological horizon Dawson'^ has described what
he regarded as a foraminiferal species, Saccammina {CalcisphcBra)
Eriana, Daws., and these, Brady suggested, probably belong to the
same group as the forms figured by Knowlton. Dawson's figures
are not nearly so suggestive of Chara, as are those of Knowlton.
Since Dawson named these Devonian fossils, TJlrich,^ in ignorance
apparently of previous descriptions, instituted a new foraminiferal
genus, Moellerina, for their reception. From the Carboniferous
Limestone of Gloucestershire Wethered* has recorded another form,
which he places in Williamson's genus Calcisphcera, but with the
belief that it is of a Protozoan nature. Enough has been said to
show the possibility of our having to go back to Devonian strata
for the earliest specimens of Chara. Without having seen
Knowlton 's material, and being aware of the difiiculties pointed
out by experienced specialists, it must be admitted that the figured
specimens exhibit a very marked resemblance to Characeous fruits :
the reasons brought forward against accepting this resemblance as
proof of identity do not appear by any means decisive. The number
of enveloping cells need not be regarded as fixed and unalterable,
and a similar occurrence of large numbers of Charas in the rock
matrix may be noted in the case of the Paris Basin fresh -water
rocks of Eocene age. In most cases the plants are represented by
the so-called "fruits," which are simply the oospores enclosed in
the spirally arranged cells of the envelope, or, not infrequently,
without the encasing cells. Remains of the vegetative organs are
rare, and such as have been described in a fossil state are of little
or no interest from a botanical point of view.

1 Phil. Trans. 1880, p. 521.

* Canad. Nat. n s. vol. x. p. 1.

3 Geol. Mag. 1886, n.s. Dec. 3, vol. iii. p. 374.

* Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xliv. Proc. p. 91.

12 ^ CHARA.

In rocks of the Jurassic system several species have been dis-
covered. Saporta,^ in his important contributions to the Jurassic
botany of France, institutes a new species, Char a Bleicheri, from
Oxfordian rocks at Cajase in the Department Lot.

Heer^ named a species, Char a Jaccardi, Hr., from the Purbeckian
of Villers-le-lac and other localities in the Canton Neuchatel ; this
species is also recorded by Saporta,^ on the authority of Giradot,
from the same geological horizon in the neighbourhood of Pont
de la Choux. Another species, Char a Maillardi, Sap., has recently
been described from this district by Saporta,* but his figures show
the spiral markings of the encasing cells almost longitudinally
placed, and, indeed, the drawings are by no means convincing as
regards botanic affinity.

Heer's species, Chara Jaccardi, Hr., is quoted by Schenk^ from
beds which may be of Wealden age, at Locle in the Canton
Neuenburg. In Britain we have a reference by Phillips^ to the
occurrence of Chara in the "Upper part of the Wealden deposits"
of Swanage Bay, Isle of Purbeck; the same genus is included
in the list of Isle of Wight fossils in Bristow's Memoir' on the
Geology of that island, from a locality between Brixton and
Atherfield.

So far as I am able to discover, no specific name has been applied
to these English Mesozoic Charas. In the Museum of Practical
Geology, Jermyn Street, there is a specimen showing a number of
hollow casts of the Isle of Wight Charas; these should probably be
included in the species Chara Knowltoni, sp. nov. A few of the
more clearly preserved casts show that there were about 10-12
almost horizontal lines on the surface of the oogonia. The casts
are somewhat longer and narrower than the impressions from
Ecclesbourne, but this may be due to the fact that the latter have
been more crushed, and have, therefore, an apparently greater
breadth.

1 Pal. Fran9. ser. ii. vol. i. p. 214, pi. ix. figs. 8 and 9.

« Urwelt, 1879, p. 176.

3 Pal. FranQ. ser. ii. vol. i. p. 216, pi. ix. figs. 12 and 13.

* Ibid. ii. vol. iv. p. 499, pi. Ixxii bis.

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 204, pl. xxv. fig. 1.

« Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. 1858, p. 46.

' Mem. Geol. Surv. 1889, p. 258.

CHAEA. 18

1.— Chara Knowltoni, sp. nov.

Type. Imperfectly preserved oogonia discovered by Mr. Rufford
at Cliff End, near Hastings. British Museum. Registered number
V. 1070«. Woodcut, Fig. 1.

Oogonia broadly oval in form, the largest specimens about -Sm.
long and approximately the same breadth at the broadest part.
Surface marked with eleven or twelve ridges, arranged in the
form of a flattened spiral very little removed from the horizontal.

Fig. 1. — Oogonium of Chara Knowltoni, sp. nov. (V. 1070a), x 30.

Each specimen is covered by a thin and brittle layer of car-
bonaceous matter, and in all probability the ridged surface is that
of the enveloping cells, the substance of which is left as a black
film moulded on the ridged and furrowed surface of the oospore.

The examples on which this species is founded are confessedly
meagre, and hardly such as to warrant the institution of an
additional species. Such characters, however, as are available
indicate very clearly marked differences from the Wealden species
previously described. It may, therefore, serve a useful purpose
to designate the British specimens by a new name, provided the
fact be kept in mind that the material hitherto found in the
English beds is not at all adequate for the purposes of thorough
specific definition. I have ventured to name this species after
Mr. Knowlton, who has recently added to our knowledge of
fossil Charas.

The present species differs from the other Wealden form,
Chara Jaccardi, in having many more surface ridges, and in its
more globular and less elongated shape. The globular form may,
however, as previously suggested, be, to a certain extent, the result
of flattening.

A specimen figured by Squinabol ^ from Tertiary beds of Liguria,

1 Contrib. Fl. foss. Liguria, vol. ii. p. 7, pi. xii. figs 1 and 2.

14 CHARA.

and referred by him to Char a Menam\ A. Br., agrees fairly
closely with our Wealden form.

Another species, Chara Stantoni,^ recently described by Knowl-
ton from the Upper Cretaceous Bear-River formation of North
America, agrees in the large number of almost horizontal ridges
with Chara KnowUoni, but differs in shape.

Among English Tertiary species there is a distinct similarity
to a specimen of Chara medicag inula, figured by Lyell,'^ showing
the "nut" enclosed in the "integument." The inner part
("nut") has a close resemblance to the present species.

The common recent species Chara foetida, A. Br., possesses
oogonia not far removed in appearance from the Wealden type,
but, as Lyell points out in reference to Tertiary species, the fossil
oogonia are more globular than those of living British species.

V. 1070«. Woodcut, p. 13, Fig. 1.

Some of the oogonia are fairly well preserved and show the
characteristic markings clearly. Near Hastings.

Presented by P. Rufford, Esq., 1885.

V. 1070. Several oogonia scattered in the matrix. Near
Hastings. Presented hy P. Rufford, JEsq., 1885.

V. 2282. A cluster of oogonia closely crowded together, with
odd ones scattered about. The spherical form well shown, but
markings indistinct. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

Y. 2808. Several specimens in an argillaceous matrix, some
with the surface markings fairly clear. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

1 Bot. Gazette, vol. xviii. p. 141.

2 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. ii. 1826, p. 90, pi. xiii. fig. 3,

BRTOPHTTA. 15

Group BEYOPHYTA (MUSCINEiE).

There is a well-marked and characteristic alternation of genera-
tions in the life-history of the members of this group ; the Oophyte
generation (moss plant) being the more conspicuous of the two.
No vascular tissue, and no true roots.

Our knowledge of fossil mosses and liverworts is lamentably
deficient, and, indeed, the evidence upon which many of the so-
called fossil mosses have been named is far from satisfactory.
Scanty as the material is on which the geological history of these
plants is founded, we are not justified in assuming that they are
unrepresentedin pre-Tertiary times. ^

The earliest representative of the Musci to which reference need
be made is one which was described in the " Comptes Eendus"
for 1885 '^ by Zeiller and Eenault from the Coal-Measures of
Commentry ; this species, Muscites polytrichaceus, has since been
figured by the same authors in their work on the Commentry
fossil flora. ^ As usually happens in the case of fossil mosses,
there are no signs of a capsule. The figures of this carboniferous
species are certainly much more suggestive of the vegetative parts
of a moss than any other plant. M. Bescherelle suggested the
two recent genera, Polytrichum and Rhizogonium, as the nearest
recent forms as regards the characters of the vegetative parts.
In connection with Palaeozoic mosses the comparison made by
Solms-Laubach is worth noting*; he compares Lycopodites Maakii
from the Coal-Measures of North America, and Z. uneinatus, also
of Carboniferous age, to certain of the recent SypnecB. Passing
on to the Mesozoic system, we have further evidence for the
existence of this group of plants, as Starkie Gardner has shown
in his paper *'0n Mesozoic Angiosperms." ^ He had occasion to

^ Bower. Annals Bot. vol. v. p. 130.

2 Vol. c. p. 660.

3 Fl. foss. Houill. Commentry, pi. xli. figs. 2-4.
* Fossil Botany, p. 186.

5 Geol. Mag. 1886, p. 203.

16 BETOPHTTA,

examine a specimen originally described and figured by Buckman ^
under the name Najadita^ from the plant bed at the base of the
Lias, near Bristol; his inspection of this supposed monocotyledon
led him to the conclusion that Buckman's plant was probably
closely allied to the common fresh-water moss Fontinalis. In this
opinion he was supported by Messrs. Carruthers and Murray, of
the British Museum, to whom the specimen was shown.

In a footnote to Gardner's paper the important fact is added
that a capsule had been sent to him by Mr. Brodie from the same
locality.

The argument advanced by Heer'^ in the "TJrwelt der Schweiz ".
for the existence of Triassic mosses is well known. In describing
some Lias insects from the rocks of Schambelen, Heer notes the
absence of fossil fungi in these rocks, but goes on to say that their
presence may be inferred from the occurrence of certain genera of
beetles. The same kind of reasoning is made use of in the case of
mosses ; four species of JByrrhus, found in the Schambelen Lias,
are supposed to warrant the assumption that mosses were also in
existence, because at the present day the nearest living allies of
those Schambelen beetles derive their food from mosses. Such
reasoning can hardly be accepted in the accumulation of reliable
evidence for the geological history of particular classes of plants.

A Cretaceous moss has been figured by Ettingshausen and Debey
from the Aachen and Maestricht rocks under the name Musettes
cretaceus^\ the figure of the type specimen shows a very small
and imperfect fragment. The plant fragments figured by Eoemer,*
and described by him as Muscites imhricatus and M. falcifolius,
from the North German "Wealden beds, are most probably pieces
of coniferous branches, and certainly of no value as records of
Wealden mosses. The specimen figured by Dunker, from the
same district, as Muscites Sternhergianus, is in all probability a
fragment of a coniferous branch. From the Tertiary rocks several
authors have described species of Muscites, but in nearly all cases
the determinations are based solely on fragments of vegetative

1 Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. vi. p. 413.

* Urwelt, 1879, p. 99.

3 Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. mat, nat. CI. vol. xvii. p. 185, pi. i. fig.

* Verstein. Ool. Geb. p. 10, pi. xvii. fig. 2.
6 Wealdenbildung, p. 20, pi. vii. fig. 10.

HEPATIC-a:. 1 7

organs, and these alone are not often trustworthy guides : there is
an exception in the case of Gymnostomum ferrugineum^^ figured by
Ludwig, where the capsule is preserved with portions of the moss-
plant stem.

The palaeobotany of the Hepaticce is no more satisfactory. Of
Palaeozoic liverworts there appear to be no records preserved.
A single specimen of a plant with dichotomously lobed flat fronds
has been described by Fliche and Bleicher as a new species of
MarcTiantia^ M. oolithicus ; it was discovered in Lower Oolite rocks
in the neighbourhood of I^ancy. The authors of the species point
out that such forked laminar structures may be referred to certain
lichens, algae or liverworts ; in this case the latter class is the one
chosen.

In speaking of fossil algae reference was made to Fucoides erectus^
Leek., from the Yorkshire Oolite, as being possibly a liverwort and
not an algal impression.

The Tertiary Hepaticm are more satisfactory, notably some
figured by Saporta^ from the Paris Basin showing distinct male
receptacles. From the Baltic Amber Goppert* has determined
various examples of the Bryophyta, and instituted the generic term
Jungermannites to denote the existence of certain supposed
hepatics which resemble the Jungermannia rather than the
Marchantia section.

Class HEPATICJE.

The vegetative dorsi ventral body is in the form of a thalloid
creeping structure (Thalloid Liverworts), or a creeping stem with
thin leaves which are always without a midrib (Foliose Liver-
worts). Protonema feebly developed.

Order MAECHANTIE^.

Yegetative body of the thalloid type, with or without a midrib ;
branches of the " thallus " more or less clearly forked.

1 Palaeontographica, vol. viii. p. 160, pi. Ixiii. fig. 9.
8 Bull. Soc. Sci. Nancy, ser. ii. vol. v. pp. 67, 68, fig. 1.
3 Mem. Soc. Geol. France, ser. ii. vol. viii. p. 289.
* Bernstein, p. 113.

C

18 MAECHANTITES.

Genus MARCHANTITES, Brongniart.
[Tableau, p. 12.]

Vegetative body of laminar form, with apparently dichotomous
branches, and agreeing in habit with the recent thalloid Repaticce,
as represented by the genus Marchantia.

Brongniart' s term Marehantites is, in the present instance, pre-
ferable to Marchantia; the latter would suggest a fossil which
might reasonably be regarded as a species of the recent genus ;
the former has a wider meaning, and, if used in the broad sense
indicated in the above definition, would refer rather to a type
of vegetative body than to a special genus.

1.— Marehantites Zeilleri, sp. nov.

Ti/pe. Specimen in the British Museum. V. 2330. Discovered
by Mr. Rufford. PL I. Fig. 3.

'Trend" repeatedly divided by forked branching, apparently
dichotomous. Average breadth about 3mm. ; the branches have a
distinct and fairly broad midrib, and on either side of the central
axis are thin and filmy.

I have named this Wealden species after Professor Zeiller, of
Paris, who is one of the authors of the oldest known species of
moss, and whose labours in palseobotany have done so much to
establish the subject on a more scientific foundation.

In habit and size this species very closely resembles Marchantia
Chenopoda, Linn., from tropical America. No other genus, so far
as resemblance in habit is concerned, agrees so nearly with the
"Wealden form as Marchantia, but without trace of either male or
female receptacle, or other aids to identification, no great stress
should be laid on the comparison. There is the same branching
habit and distinct midrib in Leckenby's species, Fucoides erectus^
In both the midrib is clearly shown by the much darker colour of
the median portion of the thalloid impressions ; the thinner lateral
parts in the present species appear almost like brown stains on the
matrix. A somewhat similar form, but without any striking
resemblance, and, indeed, of much smaller size, is figured by Debey

1 Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xx, p. 74, pi. xi. fig 3.

INCEETiE SEDIS. 19

and Ettingshausen, under the name Halyserites gracilis,'^ from the
Cretaceous of Aachen and Maestricht. This so-called alga might
also be compared to a fragment of a filmy fern frond.

V. 2330. PI. I. Pig. 3.

This specimen shows very clearly the habit of the plant, and
especially the marked contrast between the sharply defined black
midrib and the light brown impressions of the more delicate lateral
portions. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2330<?. Practically identical with V. 2330. Ecclesbourne.

Mufford Coll

V. 2334. Several smaller pieces of the branched thalloid body :
on the same slab of ironstone are fragments of Sphenopteris
Fontaineij sp. no v. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

PLANTS INCERT^ SEDIS.

In PL I. Pigs. 7 and 8, two specimens are represented which
it is difficult to refer, with any degree of certainty, to definite
genera, but which may be briefly described here as possibly
referable to the Pteridophyta.

Specimen A. PL I. Pig. 7. V. 2370.

Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

The figure shows a clearly preserved and sharply cut black
structure projecting in a button-like form from the rock matrix.
In the centre is a distinct depression, and from this extend
numerous radiating ridges which curve downward at the periphery ;
these ridges appear to be the projecting midribs of leaf-segments,
which terminate acutely, and are fused together laterally in the
form of a circular sheath. I am inclined to regard the specimen
as an Equisetaceous leaf-sheath, but prefer to leave it unnamed
in the hope of fresh discoveries affording more definite evidence
as to its botanical position.

* Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CL vol. xvi. 1859, p. 61, pL i. figs. 1-2.

20 nfCEBT^ SEDIS.

A very similar fossil has been figured by "Fontaine from the
Potomac beds of Baltimore as "an undetermined plant" ;^ his
specimen is smaller, but very similar in form ; it shows a circular
orifice in the centre, a character not noticed in the English
example. The Potomac fossil is described as more like a leaf-
sheath of Equisetum than anything else. Ettingshausen ^ has
figured a small object from the Wealden of Zobing, described as
a ''Patellenahnliches Gebilde," which may be compared to our
figured specimen. In the genus Fhyllotheca there is a certain
amount of resemblance to the present specimen in the form of
the leaf-sheaths. Zigno's figures of Phyllotheca equisetiformis, Zig.,^
represent stems -with nodes clasped by leaf-sheaths deeply divided
into acute and slightly incurved segments. In the case of a
detached leaf we should expect, however, to have a circular
structure with a central aperture. In a leaf-sheath of Phyllo-
theca Sehtschuraroskti, Schmal.,* from the Russian Jurassic rocks,
there is also a certain similarity as regards size and general form.

Specimen B. PI. I. Eigs. 8 and 9. V. 2328.

Ecclesboume. Rvfford Coll.

This specimen consists of a repeatedly branched structure bear-
ing small and closely arranged leaves ; the axes of the branches
are distinguished in several places by the presence of a white
mineralization substance in the form of fine longitudinal lines,
suggestive of a slender and woody central cylinder; the general
habit is somewhat stiff ; length 3 cm.

Mr. Carruthers, to whom I showed the specimen, recognized a
resemblance to the sporangiferous branches of some of the Lycopo-
dium Phlegmaria group,' and pointed out the possibility that the
small carbonaceous patches shown in Eig. 9 in the axis of the left-
hand leaves may be the remains of sporangia. In addition to these
black patches the enlarged piece of a branch (Eig. 9) shows the
pointed and slightly falcate leaves, which appear to occur in two

^ Potomac Flora, p. 276, pi. clxxiii. figs. 11 and 11a.
2 Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 32, pi. iii. fig. 20.
' Flor. foss. Oolit. vol. i. p. 60, pi. viii. fig. 6a, etc.

* Schmalhausen. Mem. Ac. Imp. St. Petersbourg, ser. vii. vol. xxvii. No. 4,
1879, pi. vi. fig. 3.
^ Baker. Fern-allies, p. 19.

INCEETJE SEDIS. 21

alternating rows. There is certainly a marked resemblance
between some specimens of fertile branches in members of the
Lycopodium Phlegmaria group and the Wealden fragment ; but the
nature of the fossil renders it unwise to give expression to this
resemblance by adopting the name Lycopodites.

The occurrence of this genus in Wealden rocks has previously
been hinted by Mantell ^ ; he includes ? Lycopodites in a list of
fossil plants from Tilgate Forest.

^Nathorst^ figures and describes a specimen as ** undoubtedly
Lycopodiaceous," from a Japanese locality which has afforded a
flora with a distinct "Wealden facies. In Saporta's recent list of
plants from the Wealden of Portugal ^ there are included certain
species of Lycopodiaceous plants.

At first sight the specimen suggests, as Mr. Rufford pointed out,
a moss-like plant. So far as I have been able to determine there
are no species of true mosses which show any close similarity in
habit to the fossil, but in the Hepaticce there are some forms in
which the resemblance is distinctly close, e.g. the genus Porella.

A strong argument, however, against adopting such a generic
term as Jangermannites is the indication of a woody axis, to which
reference has already been made.

Finally the possibility must be noted that the real affinities of
specimen B may eventually prove to be with the Coniferce. Cf,
PL I. Fig. 8, with Heer's figures of Widdringtonites Reichii (Ett.) *
and Jmiiperus macilenta (Hr.),^ both from the Cretaceous of
Greenland; also Lesquereux's figure of Glyptostrohus gracillimus,^
Lesqx., another Cretaceous conifer.

1 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. iii. 1835, p. 213.

2 Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol. Ivii. 1890, p. 50, pi. ii. fig. 3.

3 Compt. Rend. vol. cxiii. 1891, p. 249.

* Fl. foss. Arct. vol. vii. 1883, pi. hi. fig. 5.

* Ihid. vol. vi. 1882, pi. xxxv. fig. 10.

« Eep. U.S. Geol. Surv. vol. vi. 1874, pi. i. fig. 11.

22 EQUISETACEiE.

Group PTEMDOPHYTA.
(YASCULAE CEYPTOGAMS.)

Plants with a highly organized sporophyte generation, possessing
true vascular (conducting) tissue, and true roots.

With the exception of Isoetes, Botrychium^ SelminthostachySf
and, according to recent observations, ^quisetum,^ there is no
secondary thickening in the vegetative structures of the living
genera included in this group. Among fossil genera secondary
thickening appears to have been common.

The Pteridophyta differ from the Bryophyta in the greater advance
in physiological division of labour as expressed in the more com-
plete differentiation of tissues. The presence of a true vascular
system and the possession of true roots at once separate the
Pteridophyta from the next lower group of plants. In the
higher group the sporophyte generation is the more conspicuous;
in the Bryophyta the gametophyte (oophyte) generation is more
prominent.

Class EQTJISETIN^.

Leaves in whorls and small in proportion to the stem, in the
form of sheaths, with long or short teeth, clasping the stem at
the nodes.

The fertile branches terminate in spikes formed of leaves
modified in the form of peltate scales arranged in close whorls
with sporangia attached to their inner surface.

Family EQUISETACE^.

Contains the single recent genus JEquiseium, and the fossil
species included under the generic name JEquisetites.

» Cormack, Annals Bot. vol. vii. 1893, p. 63.

EQUISETITES. 23

Genus EQUISETITES, Sternberg.
[Flor. Vorwelt, vii. 1838, p. 43.]

A general name applied to such fossil remains as closely resemble
the recent genus Equisetum.

Brongniart,^ Schimper, and other authors use the term JSquisetum
for the fossil representatives of that genus; as the former has
pointed out, there are several species which from the character
of the fertile as well as the sterile stem structures cannot be
separated from the recent genus. So far as we are able to judge,
this appears to be the case; but as yet we are in the dark as to the
histological structure of the fossil forms, and, with such material
as palaeobotanists have to deal with, there cannot be any certainty
as to the exact connection between the living and fossil equise-
taceous plants. In addition to this necessary imperfection of the
fossil material, there is another argument in favour of some slight
distinction in the name used for species other than those now in
existence, namely the fact that we thus have a convenient distin-
guishing mark between recent species of JEquisetum and their
geological representatives.

Owing to the absence of internal structure in the fossil repre-
sentatives of the JEquisetacea our exact knowledge of the ancestral
forms of Equisetum leaves much to be desired. Graf Solms has
called attention to this fact in his ** Fossil Botany,"^ and he gives a
short critical account of the geological history of the sole surviving
genus. A few examples have been recorded from the Coal-Measures
of different countries, but as a rule there is very little to be learnt
from them. Without attempting any review of the older equi-
setaceous plants, it is of interest to note that there appears to be
some evidence for the existence of this family in Britain during the
Coal-Measures period. Kidston^ has recently figured and described
part of a sporangiferous spike which seems to resemble the fertile
apex of a recent Equisetum stem. This new species from the
Coal-Measures of Yorkshire is named Equisetum Hemingwayi.

* Brongniart, Tableau, p. 46.

2 p. 175.

3 Annals, vol. ix. ser. vi. 1892, p. 138. A Permian species, E. Vaujolyi, has
recently been recorded by Professor Zeiller from Commentry. (Saporta, Rev.
gen. hot. vol, v. 1893, pi. iii. p. 179.)

24 EQUISETITES.

So far as facts are available, we are warranted in the conclusion
that the species of the genus Equisetum^ from the Upper Carboni-
ferous period to the present day, appear to have undergone but
little change in habit and external appearance ; the most striking
difference being one of size. In the Triassic period, when
EquisetiteB seems to have reached its maximum development, we
find an abundance of very large stems ; from that time the size
gradually decreases, and, in the Wealden strata, the few species
that are known approach much more nearly in size to the livihg
members of the family.

1. — Equisetites Lyelli, Mantell.

1833. Equisetum Lyelli, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 245, figs. 1-3.

1845. Equisetites Lyelli, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 60.

1848. Equisetites Lijelli, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl. p. 464.

1849. Equisetum Lyelli, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.
1854. Equisetites Lyelli, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 8.

1869. Equisetum Lyelli, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 265, and vol.

iii. p. 453.
1871. Equisetum Lyelli, Sckenk, Palaeontograpkica, vol. xix. p. 207, pi. xxii.

figs. 10-13.
1882. Equisetites Lyelli, Renault, Cours bot. foss. vol. ii. p. 150.
1889. Equisetum Lyelli, Fontaine, Potomac Flora, p. 65, pi. i. fig. 7 ; pi. ii.

figs. 4 and 5.

Type. Small pieces of stem of an average thickness of 1-5 cm. ;
internodes about 2*5 cm. in length, the leaf-sheaths divided into
numerous linear acuminate teeth. The surface of the internodes
shows faintly marked and numerous longitudinal lines. Single
branches at the nodes of frequent occurrence. Sporangia and
spores unknown.

The majority of the specimens in the British Museum are pieces
of stems showing the leaf -teeth projecting some distance above
each node, and also in a few instances there is a thin brown film
on the surface of the internodes. This brown surface layer is
all that remains of the plant tissues, and probably is simply the
remains of the epidermal layer of cells; it is well shown in
specimens V. 59 and V. 2864.

EQUISETITES. 25

V. 59. PI. I. Fig. 5.

A good specimen, about 12 cm. in length; leaves and nodes
well shown, also the base of a lateral branch. St. Leonards.

Presented hy Mrs. Burnett, 1882.

V. 59«. This small piece is probably the apical bud of a stem
or branch. (7/*. 3601. St. Leonards.

Presented ly Mrs. Burnett, 1882.

V. 710. Well-preserved stem ; shows three internodes 2-2*5 cm.
in length ; leaves distinct. St. Leonards. Dawson Coll.

V. 2284. Possibly a badly preserved leaf-sheath of U. Lyelli.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2617. Pieces of the larger kind of stem with shorter inter-
nodes. Cf. 8383, etc. In this specimen the leaves are distinct
and appear to agree with those of the E. Lyelli type. At one or
two of the nodes where the leaf-sheaths are less complete there
is a marked resemblance to E. Phillipsii,^ Schimper. Cf. also
E. lusitanicum^ Heer. Some of these larger examples come very
near to the figure of Catamites arenaceus minor, Jaeger,^ a species
of Equisetites from the Stuttgart sandstone. Sussex.

Bechles Coll.

V. 2730«. Probably the tapering end of a stem showing over-
lapping leaves. Cf. Mantell's figure * showing a similar tapering
stem. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

2864. Several specimens with good nodes and leaves; also
branch scars. Pounceford, Sussex. Beckles Coll.

2867. This piece of stem shows five internodes, measuring
10 cm. in length and 1*5 cm. in breadth. One distinct branch
scar, with traces of others. Imperfect impressions in some places
of the long leaf-teeth. Cf. Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix.
pi. xxii. figs. 10-11. Mantell ColL

3579. An unusually long piece of a branch attached to the stem.

Mantell ColL

^ Schenk, Palseontograpliica, vol. xix. pi. xxii. figs. 6-9.

2 Heer, Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, pi. viii. figs. 1-6.

3 Jaeger, Pflanzenverstein. Stuttgart, pi. vi. fig. 2.
* Geol. S.E. England, p. 245.

JCO EQUISETITES.

3582. 12-5 cm. long. Average length of internodes 2 cm.,
breadth 1-2 cm. Mantell Coll.

3591. Badly preserved and crushed stem, shows four and
a half internodes. One branch. Cf. Schenk, Palaeontographica,
vol. xix. pi. xxiv. fig. 12. Mantell Coll.

3594. Stem showing three nodes, sheathing leaves, and one
branch. Mantell Coll,

3598. Small piece, with one node and leaf-teeth particularly-
well shown, also a branch; almost identical with Schenk' s fig. 11,
pi. xxii. Palaeontographica, vol. xix. Mantell Coll.

3601. This small specimen may be merely a fragment crushed
at one end, but possibly it is the apical termination of a branch.
The long linear leaf-teeth are distinctly seen and appear to be
closely pressed against the apical bud. Cf. Equisetites Munsteri,
Schimp.* Mantell Coll.

8383. Internodes about 2-2 cm. long and 2*2 cm. broad. This
specimen, also 10,847, 12,399 and others, has shorter internodes
than most examples of the species; the leaves are less clearly seen,
but faintly indicated here and there. There is a distinct similarity,
as regards the diameter of the stem and the length of internodes,
between such specimens as this and the figure of Equisetites
Phillipsii, Schimp., given by Schenk,* but I am unable to fix
upon any definite characteristic which would warrant the removal
of these larger forms to another species. Pounceford. Mantell Coll.

12,399. Probably the same species. 14-5 cm. long; leaves
not clearly defined. Pounceford. Mantell Coll.

12,403. Internodes 2*5 cm. in length, 1-8 cm. broad. Im-
perfectly preserved. Pounceford. Mantell Coll.

12,406. 11*5 cm. long. Impressions in the places of the
characteristic leaves. Pounceford. Mantell Coll.

39,123. 6-5 cm. in length. Crushed and very imperfect. At
two of the nodes there are irregular projections, with their
surfaces exhibiting a rough warty appearance ; in all probability

' Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. Atlas, pi. viii. fig. 4.
^ Palaeontograpliica, vol. xix. pi. xxii.

EQUISETITES. 27

the result of iron pyrites. At first sight these rough projecting
parts remind one of Phyllotheca sporangia, but in reality they have
no real connection with the stem. Pounceford. Mantell Coll.

The following registered specimens are smaller, or less worthy
of note :— V. 2318, Rufford Coll. ; 3575-3578, 3580, 3585-3590,
3592, 3593, 3595-3597, 3599, 3600, 3602-3606, 10,835-10,839,
10,847, 38,375, Mantell Coll.

2.— Equisetites Bur char dti, Dunker.

1824. ? Carpolithus Mantelli, Stokes and Webb, Trans. Geol. Soc. vol. i.

ser. ii. p. 423, pi. xlvi. figs. 3 and 4, and pi. xlvii. fig. 1.

1833. ? Carpolithus Mantelli, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 245, and fig.

p. 246.

1846. Equisetites Burchardti, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 2, pi. v. fig. 7.

1846. Carpolithus cordatus, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 22, pi. ii. figs. 7 and 10.

1846. Carpolithus Huttoni, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 22, pi. ii. fig. 8.

1846. Carpolithus Lindleyanus, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 22, pi. ii. fig. 7.

1846. ? Carpolithus Mantelli, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 21, pi. ii. fig. 9.

1848. ? Carpolithus Mantelli, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl. p. 239.

1848. Carpolithus Brongniarti, Bronn, loc. cit. p. 239.

1848. Carpolithus cordatus, Bronn, loc. cit. p. 239.

1848. Carpolithus Huttoni, Bronn, loc. cit. p. 239.

1848. Carpolithus Lindleyanus, Bronn, loc. cit. p. 239.

1849. Equisetites Burchardti, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Equisetites Burchardti, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 59.

1851. Equisetites Burchardti, Ettingsbausen, Haidinger Abb, vol. iv.

Abth. i. p. 65.

1852. Equisetites Burchardti, Ettingsbausen, Abb. k.-k. geol. Reicbs. p. 10,

pi. i. figs. 3 and 4.
1854. ? Carpolithes Mantelli, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 5.
1869. Equisetites Burchardti, Scbimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 264.
1870-72. Cycadinocarpus? cordatus, Scbimper, loc. cit. vol. ii. p. 211.
1870-72. Cycadinocarpus? Huttoni, Scbimper, loc. cit. vol. ii. p. 210.
1870-72. Cycadinocarpus Lindleyanus, Scbimper, loc. cit. vol. ii. p. 240.
1870-72. ? Cycadinocarpus Mantelli, Scbimper, loc. cit. vol. ii. p. 211,

Atlas, pi. Ixxii. fig. 21.
1871. Equisetites Burchardti, Scbenk, Palaeontograpbica, vol. xix. p. 205,

pi. xxii. figs. 1-5.
1874. Equisetites Burchardti, Scbimper, loc. cit. vol. iii. p. 453.
1878. Equisetites Burchardti, Dixon, Geol. Sussex, edit. iii. p. 282.
1882. Equisetites Burchardti, Renault, Cours bot. foss. vol. ii. p. 151.

1889. Equisetites Burchardti, Bristow, Mem. Geol. Surv. p. 288.

1890. Equisetites Burchardti, Saporta, Compt. Eend. vol. cxi. p. 250.

25 EQUISETITES.

Type. Pieces of stem with well-marked dentate sheaths. The
species is thus defined by Dunker: '•'' Equuetites caule tenui multi-
articulato, stn'ato, striis suhacutis viii.-x. aeque distantihus, vaginis
tumidis lanceolato-dentatis."

The specimen figured by Dunker has much shorter intemodes
and more distinct sheathing leaves than most of the English
examples. Schenk's figures afford a much better idea of the
species as represented in the National Collection; long slender
internodes with tubers attached to the nodes. The characters
shown in Bunker's figures are those of subaerial branches, but most
of Schenk's specimens are underground stem structures.

Equisetites Burchardti^ Dunk., is chiefly conspicuous by the
tubers which occur in large numbers, both isolated and attached
to the stem. The oval bodies figured by Stokes and Webb under
the name Carpolithus Mantelli have been included by later writers
under Dunker's species. In the above list of synonyms I have
given expression to a feeling of uncertainty as to the correctness of
this view ; the enlarged drawing given by Stokes and Webb ^ shows
certain characters suggestive of something quite distinct from an
Equisetaceous tuber. If their figure be an accurate representation
of the fossil, its true position must be regarded as somewhat
doubtful. The other species of Carpolithus figured by Dunker
are referred to Equisetites Burchardti^ with the exception of
Carpolithus sertum,^ which is probably identical with E. YolzoyamcBy
sp. no v., and C. Brongniarti^ which represents a tuber much larger
than E. Bur char dti, and somewhat different in form. In the figures
of C. cordatus the slightly cordate tuber is attached to a node of
the slender stem of E. Bur char dti. Dunker's various species of
Carpolithus were transferred by Schimper to the genus Cijcadino-
carpus, indicative of Cycadean affinities. In 1871 Schenk figured
some examples oi Equisetites Burchardti, which showed conclusively
the true nature of most of the various forms of tubers previously
classed with fossil fruits. He pointed out how the variations in
size and shape, as represented in Dunker's figures, could be easily
explained by the effects of pressure and the manner of preservation.
If we examine these figures carefully it appears improbable that

* Loc. cit. pi. xlvii. fig. 1.

2 Wealdenbildung, p. 22, pi. vii. fig. 3.

3 Ibid. p. 22, pi. ii. figs. 6 and 6fl.

EQnSETITES. 29

they can all be referred to one species ; many of them were no doubt
unnecessarily separated by Dunker, but in the case of Carpolithus
sertum and C. Brongniarti we do not recognize the characteristic
form of Equisetites Burchardti tubers, nor is it easy to account
for the differences by such causes as Schenk has suggested.

In the third edition of Dixon's ** Geology of Sussex," Carruthers ^
suggests that the tubers of JS. Burchardti from the Isle of Wight
may be identical with Mantell's '* seed-vessels of Restiacece^''
described in the "Wonders of Geology," ^ from the Heathfield
ironstone. Schenk ^ refers to Ettingshausen's figures of Equisetites
Burchardti and Carpolithus Lindleyanus as representing respectively
a Calamitean branch, and a fragment of Walchia. The figures of
the former appear to me, however, to have been correctly named
by Ettingshausen ; the Carpolithus may be a fragment of Walchia,
as Schenk suggests. Fontaine's species, Equisetum virginicum,^
from the Potomac beds of America, agrees fairly closely with
E. Burchardti.

Although I have not included in the above synonymy a Japanese
species, E. TTshimarense,^ recently described by Yokoyama from
beds which he speaks of as Jurassic, it is by no means certain that
his specimens should not be referred to the European species.
His description is very meagre, and the figured specimens not
particularly well preserved, but there is an obvious resemblance to
E. Burchardti; this is admitted by Yokoyama, who points to the
similarity in the form of the tubers. His short account of the
branches agrees with that given by Schenk for the North German
specimens, e.g. cf. Yokoyama's fig. 3, pi. xi. and Schenk, pi.
xxii. fig. 1. In spite of the close resemblance, it is probably
better to retain Yokoyama's new name ; the slight difference in
shape is not of great specific value, but it is the chief feature
afforded by the imperfect materials. Further discoveries in the
Japanese plant beds may establish a specific distinction on a
firmer basis, or, on the other hand, may afford stronger evidence of
specific identity.

1 p. 282.

2 Edit. iii. p. 372.

3 Palgeontographica, p. 206.

4 Potomac Flora, p. 63.

5 Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. 1890, p. 39, pi. xi. figs. 1-3.

so EQTJISETITES.

Tubers of Equisetum and Equisetites. — Tn Duval-Jouve's Mono-
graph on the French species of Equisetum some good figures are
given, which have been repeatedly reproduced by subsequent
writers, showing the nature and manner of occurrence of tubers.
On pi. i. fig. 4,^ is represented a node of a rhizome of Equisetum
maximum, Lam., from which three sets of pyriform tubers are
given off ; fig. 1 of the same plate shows elliptical tubers attached
to a rhizome of E. arvense, L., and in fig. 5 the tuberous branches
of E. palustre, L. These tubers occur either singly, or several
together, in the form of a string of beads, and are simply inter-
nodes of rhizome branches which have been specially modified to
serve as reservoirs of food material. The internal tissues have
increased enormously in bulk, and, at the expense of growth in
length, the internodes have become tuberous, with their parenchy-
matous cells rich in starch. At the base of each tuber the dentate
leaf-sheath is easily seen, and if the end tuber of a chain be
removed the sheath remains attached to the tuberous internode
next below in the form of an apical crown. Frequently the tubers
are wrinkled on the outside, and, where an axial cavity is present,
this surface-wrinkling may be very pronounced. These special
intemodal structures, after passing through a period of rest, are
able to grow into new Equisetum plants, and thus serve the purpose
of vegetative reproduction.

Among recent *' Horsetails " they occur more or less frequently
in such species as E. arvense, L., E. sylvaticum, L., E. Telmateia^
Ehrh., etc. According to Duval-Jouve, Equisetum tubers were first
noticed by Helwing in 1712, and are thus described by him in
E. arvense'.'^ — '-^Hujus radicihus glandes copiose adhcerent, et quam
maxime in agris arenosis effodiuntur a suihus et pueris rusticis,
Grati et dulcis sunt saporis. Instinctu naturce sues odoratu super-
ficiem terrcB detegunt, et tam diu terram evolvunt, quoad appro-
pinquent ad glandes, Polonice Geguzie, nostratihus *Erd-]Susse^
dictos, quod suhulci animadvertentes statim accurrunt, et pedihus
porcos ahigentes leviosimo lahore nucleos suos terrestres colligunt.
Maturescunt circa tempera autumni^

In 1768 Alberti Y. Haller briefly refers to the same bodies as

1 Hist. Nat. Equisetum.

2 Helwing, Fl. Plant, indig. Pruss. p. 31.

EQUISETITES. 31

follows ' : — " Radicihus tamen glandium simile oltquid 8(Bpe adhcerety
quot porcos credas requirere?^ De Candolle in his "Flore Fran-
gaise " "^ describes a new species, E. tuberosum^ previously proposed
by Hectot, and specially characterized by the formation of tubers
on the lower nodes. In 1828 Bischoff^ figured the tubers of
JS. arvense attached to the rhizome. Among more recent authors,
in addition to Duval- Jouve, Milde * gives figures of tubers attached
to jF. hiemale, L.

Such tuberous intemodes seem to have been unusually numerous
on the rhizome of Equisetites Burchardti^ as is clearly shown by
the large numbers of attached and separate tubers in the English
"Wealden beds. No other species of Equisetites affords such
numerous examples of tubers as this Wealden form, but a Tertiary
species, Equisetites Parlatorii, Heer,^ should also be quoted as
characterized by its chains of elliptical tubers. Heer originally
described this species as Physagenia Parlatorii,^ from Switzerland,
and recognized a probable relationship to E. Burchardii \ he in-
cluded it, however, among the ^^ Plantae ineertce sedis,''^ and, at the
same time, compared the " bladders " to the tubers of Equisetum
arvense, L., and other species. Schimper afterwards changed
Heer's name, Physagenia Parlatorii to Equisetum Parlatorii?
Another instance of fossil tubers is recorded by Heer from the
Jurassic beds of Amur,^ under the name Equisetum Burejense^
Heer, and compared by him to the Wealden Equisetites Bur-
chardii. The same author has recorded another species with
tubers, E. arcticum, Heer, from the ** Miocene" of Spitzbergen.^
The gigantic Triassic Equisetites appear to have produced corre-
spondingly large tubers, e.g. E. arenaceum^ Jaeg., and E. Munsteri,
Stemb.^**

1 Hist. Stirp. indig. Helvet. vol. iii. p. 2 (under No. 1677, not 1676 as
stated by Duval -Jouve).

2 Vol. V. p. 245.

2 Die Chareen und Equiseteen, pi. iv. fig. 6.

* Mon. Equiset. pi. xxix. Nova Acta Ac. Cses. Leop.-Car. 1865, vol. xxxii.

5 Heer, Fl. Tert. Helvet. vol. iii. p. 158, pi. cxlv. figs. 17-18.

6 Ibid. vol. i. p. 109, pi. xlii. figs. 2-17.
' Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 261.
8 Fl. foss. Arct. vol. iv. p. 99, pi. xxii. figs. 6-7.
^ Ibid. vol. ii. pi. i. figs 1-15.

^° Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. Atlas, pis. ix.-xi.

32 EQUISETITES.

V. 2367. PI. I. rigs. 5 and 6.

This specimen shows very clearly the nature of the tuber and
the dentate leaf. A delicate branched root occurs immediately
below the node to which the tuber is attached. At the apex
of the tuber the pointed teeth of the leaf-sheath are easily seen.
Cf. Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 206, pi. xxii. fig. ha ;
also Duval-Jouve, Hist. Nat. Equisetum, pi. i. fig. 5.

The fragment at the upper corner of the same piece of rock,
represented in Fig. 6, shows part of another tuber, also three
delicate linear acuminate teeth ; the stem is traversed by two
distinct grooves.

Fig. 5 suggests the natural position of growth of the under-
ground axis with its tuberous branch and branched root.
Bexhill. Rufford Coll.

V. 1070. Slender and imperfectly preserved stem, 23*5 cm. long.
Several casts of tubers. Cf. Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix.
pi. xxii. fig. 1.

V. 1070 and V. 1070«. A short piece of stem with three tubers,
and another piece with four.

V. 1070J. Fragments of stems and several tubers. Two tubers
shown in contact. iNear Hastings.

Presented ly P. Rufford, Mq., 1885.

V. 2256. Three tubers, broadly oval in shape ; the surface and
the clay casts covered with a thin black film. Bexhill.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2730«. Fragments of stems showing longitudinal ridges.

V. 2730J. Narrow curved stem 20 cm. long ; long internodes,
2-3 '5 cm. in length. On the same specimen occur several globular
and elliptical tubers, about 1'5 cm. in length. Bexhill.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2739. This specimen shows the basal end of a tuber with a
central depression. Bexhill. Rufford Coll.

V. 2834. Several tubers of smaller size, but similar in form to
the larger examples of this species. Cf. Dunker, "Wealdenbildung,
pi. ii. fig. 10. Bexhill. Rufford Coll.

V. 2818 and V. 2819. Fragment of the same species. Bexhill.

Rufford Coll,

ECiUISETITES. 88

3.— Equisetites Yokoyamee, sp. nov.

1846. ? Carpolithus sertum, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 22, pi. vii. fig. 3.
1875. Equisetites Burchardti (in part), Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii.
p. 157, pi. xxvi. fig. 1.

Type. Tubers and fragments of stems from Ecclesbourne, near
Hastings. British Museum. "Woodcuts, Figs. 2, 3 and 3*.

Stem narrow, internodes about 1*1 cm. in length and 5 mm.
in breadth ; tubers narrowly elliptical, attached singly or in chains
to the nodes.

In the JS'ational Collection there are several specimens of Equi-
setaceous tubers, both isolated and attached to stems, which are
distinct in shape from those of E. Burchardti, Schimp. Mr. Rufford
informs me that these two kinds of tubers never occur together,
the specimens of the latter species being found at Bexhill, those
of the other type at Ecclesbourne. I have decided, therefore,
to give expression to the distinctive character of the Ecclesbourne
tubers, and have named the new species after Dr. Yokoyama of
Tokyo, who has in recent years made valuable additions to our
knowledge of the Mesozoic floras of Japan.

In JE. Yokoyama there are very few details of structure shown
in the sandstone specimens. The stems are usually in the form
of smooth slender casts with little or no indication of longitudinal
ribs and grooves, or leaf-sheaths; the tubers differ from those of
E. Burchardti in their smaller size and narrower elliptical form.

r

3*

Fig 2 (V. 2871). Fig. 3 (Y. 2871). Fig. 3* (V. 2335).
Tubers of Equisetites Yokoyamee, sp. nov.

One of the best examples is represented in Eig. 2 ; part of a
shrunken tuber is shown in place, and immediately below it is
a branch attached to the node. This example, with several others,
has probably been preserved in the sandy soil in its original
position of growth.

84 EQUISETITES.

In Figs. 3 and 3* we have examples of more perfect tubers.
The tubers figured by Dunker under the name Carpolithus sertum
agree very closely with some of the English specimens ; but the
absence of any definition of the North German species prevents
us adopting Dunker's name, even if we regard his specimens as
identical with ours.

In his second Memoir on the Wealden Flora, Schenk has figured
a specimen with numerous tubers under the name ^quisetites
JBurchardti, Dunk. ; this seems, however, to have a closer resem-
blance to our new species ; the tubers are narrow and less spherical
than those of JE. Burchardti. If we compare Schenk's fig. 1,
pi. xxii. Palseontographica, vol. xix. and fig. 1, pi. xxvi. Palieon-
tographica, vol. xxiii. we notice a distinct diff'erence, not only in the
shape of the tubers, but in the general habit of the tuber-bearing
plant. Schenk's latter figure shows some of the tubers joined end to
end ; the same kind of arrangement occurs in some of the English
examples, e.g. V. 2365^. It is, perhaps, not entirely satisfactory
to have to rely upon certain diff'erences in the shape of tuberous
internodes in determining specific definitions; but in the present
instance the available material appears to show well-defined
differences, and there is confirmatory evidence in the fact that
the two forms of tubers are never found in close association.

V. 2871. Fig. 2. Internodes 1-1-2 cm. long, about 2 mm.
broad. The sandstone matrix is penetrated by stems and root
fragments; portions of tubers. Cf. -E'. Burchardti, Dunk., pi. i.
fig. 5. Ecclesbourne. BecUes Coll.

V. 2871. Fig. 3. A few well-preserved tubers ; two shown
in plaoe at one node; fragments of roots. Nodes not clearly
marked, no ribs on the internodes, the latter about 1 cm. in
length. Ecclesbourne. BecMes Coll.

V. 2335. Fig. 3*, p. 33. Numerous tubers, some attached to
the slender stem. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 727. Several tubers, with stem fragments; many of the
former show surface depressions due to shrinkage of the tuber
tissues. Ecclesbourne. Dawson Coll.

V. 2365. Five specimens. No detail shown. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

riLicrN^. 85

V. 2365a. Two long and narrow tubers joined together. Cf.
Dunker, Wealdenbildung, pi. vii. fig. 3 ; also Schenk, Paleeonto-
graphica, vol. xxiii. pi. xxvi, fig. 1, and Heer, Fl. Tert. Helvet.
vol. iii. pi. cxlv. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2700. Yery thin stem, 1 mm. broad and 8 cm. long ; matrix
penetrated by roots. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2833 and V. 2834. Several tubers of the characteristic shape.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

Class EILICIIS^JE.

Leaves large in proportion to the stem. Sporangia usually occur
on the margins or lower surface of ordinary leaves ; occasionally
the fertile leaves are distinguished from the sterile by well-
marked characters.

Sub-Class riLICES.

Isosporous plants. The prothallus (gametophyte generation)
usually monoecious, of moderately large size, and capable of an
independent existence. The sporangia usually occur in definite
groups or sori, with or without indusia.

INTRODUCTION TO FILICES.

Probably no fossil plants are more widely known than the
fragments of fern fronds so abundant in the beds of shale asso-
ciated with our Coal-Measures.

"When we come to inquire how far palaeobotany has made us
intimately acquainted with the general morphology, the minute
histology, and the natural affinities of the Coal-Measure ferns,
it must be admitted that our scientific knowledge of them is
extremely limited. There are certain forms of Palaeozoic ferns,
and in the Mesozoic floras there are also a few genera, of which
it is possible to speak with confidence as to family, and occasionally
as to internal structure ; but such cases are exceptional. The
old generic names such as Pecopteris, Sphcnopteris, NeuropteriSf
and others, were instituted as convenient terms by which to

36 FILICIN^.

distinguish certain types of fern fronds, separated from one another
by the characters of their nervation ; these have been, and still
are to a large extent, the accepted terms which are used in
speaking of Palaeozoic specimens. They are accepted on the
understanding that in making use of such names we are merely
admitting our imperfect knowledge, and, as the only possible
basis of classification, make use of a system which is thoroughly
artificial. Ettingshausen, whose works on the venation of the
vegetative organs of plants are so widely known, attempted a
classification of living ferns on the same lines as those which
are followed in dealing with fossils.^ That such a system of
arrangement rests on a foundation utterly insecure has been
pointed out by Stur in his classic work on **Die Carbon-Flora
der Schatzlarer Schichten."^ He shows how such a genus as
Folypodium aftbrds examples of eleven of Ettingshausen' s venation
types, and how the same genus has three types in common with
Acrostichum, four with Pteris, four with Asplenium, and six with
Aspidium. Then again the venation type Sphenopteris occurs in
twelve genera and three families. Hence it must be admitted
that the genera which are based on characters of venation alone
are essentially provisional, and, if recognized as such, are of
extreme value until increased knowledge places us in a position
to determine the family to which a fossil fern belongs.

The custom of giving recent generic names to fossil ferns is
one which several writers have frequently adopted in dealing
with Mesozoic and Tertiary plants. This practice, I am inclined
to think, has been followed too commonly ; and the result has
been that among the more modern fossil ferns we find a large
number of species spoken of by the names of living genera, to
which they have little or no claim to relationship. In speaking
of fossil algae attention has been drawn to the great danger which
necessarily accompanies this use of modern names ; the same
remarks apply in the present instance with equal weight. Surely
there ought to be good evidence at our command before a fossil
fern is designated by such names as Dichsonia, Thyrsopteris,
Aspidium, etc., and thus presumably an authenticated occurrence
put on record of any of these genera at a certain locality and

1 Farnkrt. Jetztwelt. Vienna, 1865.

2 Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. xl. Abth. i. 1885.

FILICIN^. 37

geological horizon. The termination '^ ites,^^ or some similar
widely adopted ending, is in some degree a safeguard ; it at least
shows at once that the species is a fossil, and not a recent fern,
and, therefore, as experience has taught, to be accepted cautiously.

To retain all the old names in spite of advance in scientific
knowledge would be at once a want of recognition of palaeobotanical
progress, and a serious obstacle to phylogenetic investigations.
The better plan, and one less likely to add unsound links in the
chain of evidence on vrhich genealogical diagrams are attempted,
would be to retain the older system of nomenclature, proposed by
Brongniart and added to or modified by subsequent writers, until
such specimens are forthcoming which supply us with fertile fronds
or pinnae, and thus render possible a comparison with recent forms
based on a surer foundation.

In Hooker's well-known paper ** On the Vegetation of the
Carboniferous Period, as compared with that of the present day," ^
the difficulties of determining fossil ferns are brought home in a
clear and striking manner by one well qualified to speak on the
characters of recent ferns. Many of these difficulties are recognized
by all who have even the most superficial acquaintance with
palaeobotanical herbaria, but it is probable that had more attention
been paid to Hooker's valuable cautions our lists of synonyms
would not have reached that length and variety which they too
frequently show.

There are a number of fossil ferns from rocks of difi^erent ages,
named neither on account of their venation nor fructification
characters, but on certain morphological characteristics which are
easily recognized and typical of some peculiar modern genera.
No doubt such a basis for a generic title may often be trustworthy,
and exceedingly useful as a means of arriving within measurable
distance of natural affinity. In such cases, therefore, where we
have striking morphological features to guide us, we may with
advantage make use of them without waiting for the further
evidence of sori or sporangia.

In the works of Stur^ and Zeiller ^ on Carboniferous ferns we
have admirable proofs of the better material which palaDobotanists

^ Mem. Geol. Surv. vol. ii. pt. ii. 1848.

2 Loc. cit.

3 Bassin Houiller de Valenciennes.

38 FILICIN-E.

have at their disposal to-day, as compared to that which was
accessible to earlier workers. In the writings of these authors
many of the provisional and artificial terms are replaced by new
generic names of real taxonoraic value, and resting on such a basis
as would be recognized as reasonable by modern botanists.

In working through the specimens of ferns mentioned in the
present Catalogue the difficulty of coming to satisfactory conclu-
sions as to limits of specific distinctions, and the claim of isolated
fragments to be included in one or other genus or species, has been
demonstrated with only too much clearness. It is impossible to
deny that many of our fossil species, determined by those much
more fully equipped with the requisite knowledge and experience
than myself, are of very doubtful value. Granting the truth of
this assertion, it must be remembered that specific distinctions and
definitions are of very great importance in fossil botany, and if we
waited until our hands were full of all the needful data we should
never make any appreciable advance in the analysis of geologic
floras. We must recognize that the numerous species of fossil
plants do not all rest on unequivocal foundations ; but they are at
all events not quite so meaningless and unscientific as some would
lead us to believe.

The Wealden material aiffords many interesting examples of the
importance of bearing in mind the great differences in species
which are solely due to the manner of preservation, and the
character of the matrix in which the fossils are found. Some of
the fragments, marked out in clear dark-brown lines on a fine
homogeneous stone, present a very different appearance when seen
as carbonaceous impressions on the surface of a grey-coloured clay.
Again, such characters as the shape of the pinnules, whether
acutely terminated or with obtuse apices, whether with entire
margins or slightly dentate, are to be used with extreme care in
view of the different forms which appear in the ultimate segments
of recent fronds, according as they are fresh and flat, or dry and
more or less curled over at the edges. The position of the pinnae
on the main rachis, whether alternate or opposite, is of little value
in the case of fragmentary remains ; in recent fronds the pinnae
may be opposite towards one end of the rachis, and distinctly
alternate towards the other. Another character which I am
disposed to regard as of little value is the relative size of the
fronds, and also the size of the ultimate divisions. Probably the

FILICIN^. 39

specimens placed together under Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.),
as shown in Pis. III.-V., will be regarded by some as obviously
distinct ; such, indeed, they may prove to be, but at present I am
unable to draw any line between the various types which seem
to pass gradually one into another without any appreciable break.
To class such leaves together among living ferns would not be
considered an unwarranted step in the case of certain species ; if,
therefore, such a course is adopted in dealing with fossil ferns
there can be no very serious argument advanced against it.

In a recent volume of Engler's " Botanische Jahrbiicher," we
have an interesting account by Raciborski of a Mesozoic fern flora
from Jurassic rocks in the neighbourhood of Cracow.^ He has made
good use of the specimens of fern sporophylls at his disposal, and
from the character of the sori and sporangia he has been able to
refer many species to their natural position. The genus Klukia is
proposed by this writer for the reception of some widely-spread
species which possess sporangia of the same type as those of the
recent Schizacece. Such a resemblance to SchizacetB was first pointed
out by Bunbury^ in Peeopteris exilis, PhilL, from the Yorkshire
coast; this species he referred to a position near to Anemia and
Mohria. Researches such as this are of the greatest value, and by
instituting new names like the one proposed by Raciborski, we are
removing the plants from a purely artificial designation to a place
in the same category as recent ferns, where the generic and specific
titles are professedly based on accepted and trustworthy characters.
In the following descriptions of Wealden Filices, the acquisition of
a considerable amount of fresh material, thanks mainly to the
labours of Mr. Rufford, has enabled us to arrive at certain con-
clusions as to the systematic position of plants hitherto known
under provisional names. The transference of Sphenopteris
MantelUy Brong., to Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.), is an instance
of this; and in the case of the Wealden species, Sphenopteris
Gopperti, Dunk., there is evidence at hand which renders
the employment of a new generic designation an advisable
step. In both these instances I have mentioned, the change
of name, and the reference to certain families of ferns, are based

1 Bot. Jahrb. vol. xiii. p. 1, 1891.

2 Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. vii. 1851, p. 188, pi. xiii. figs. 5a and bb.
An examination of Bunbury's specimen (Botanical Museum, Cambridge), enables
me to confirm the reference to Schizacea.

40 ONTCHIOPSIS.

on the general character of the fructification, and not on details
of sporangial structure. Unfortunately no sporangia are sufficiently
clearly preserved to afford that important assistance which a
more intimate knowledge of them would give. It is to be
regretted that the material from the English Wealden does not
often enable us to learn anything as to histological structure.
There is, however, a notable exception in Tempshya Schimperi,
Corda, in which structural details have often been more or less
clearly mineralized, thus enabling us to add something towards the
elucidation of the real botanical position of this remarkable fossil.

A. Genera assigned to existing Families.
Order LEPTOSPOKANGIAT^.

The Sporangia, with walls composed of a single layer of cells,
are developed from single surface cells.

Family POLYPODIACE^.
Sporangia stalked, and with a vertical incomplete annulus.

Genus ONYCHIOPSIS, Yokoyama.
[Joum. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. 1890, p. 26.]

Frond tripinnate, main rachis slender, may be winged, pinnae
alternate, approximate, lanceolate. Pinnules narrow, lanceolate,
acute, alternate, the larger ones serrate, and gradually passing into
pinnules with narrow ultimate segments. Fertile pinnae with
alternate elliptical pinnules which differ in shape from the sterile
pinnules, and have the sporangia on the lower surface, giving them
the appearance of raised elliptical bodies.

This genus was instituted by Yokoyama for the reception of
a Japanese species, originally described by Geyler * as Thyrsopteris
elongata^ and afterwards referred to by Yokoyama as Bichsonia
elongata. The occurrence of fertile pinnules of a distinct and
unusual type led to the removal of the specimens from Thyrsopteris
to Onychiopsis. Yokoyama pointed out the resemblance between
the fertile pinnae of the Japanese specimens and those of the

* Palaeontograpliica, vol. xxiv. 187&-77, p. 224, pi. xxxi. fig. 4.

0NTCHI0P8IS. 41

recent genera Onychium and Gymnogramme, especially of the
former. The original diagnosis of the genus OnychiopsiSf with
reference to a single species, 0. elonyata, is as follows M —

''Fertile segments different from the sterile. Sori terminal,
linear, on each side of the midrib, parallel with the margin,
involucrate; the involucrum of each side confluent over the
midrib."

So far as I have been able to discover, this is the first record
of Onychium among fossil ferns. According to the " Synopsis
Filicum,"^ the genus occurs at the present time in Northern
India, China. Japan, Java, Persia, Abyssinia, and Malayan Pen-
insula and Islands, etc.

The more detailed examination of the points of agreement
between the fossil species and the living genus will be attempted
in the description of the two species Onychiopsis elo7igata (Geyl.)
and 0. Mantelli (Brong.).

1.— Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brongniart).

1824. Symenopteris psilotoides, Stokes and Webb, Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii.

vol. i. p. 423, pi. xlvi. fig. 7.

1825. Hymenopteris psilotoides, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt. iv. p. xxii.

1827. Symenopteris psilotoides, Mantell, Illust. Geol. Sussex, p. 55, pi. i.

Sa and 3b ; pi. iii. fig. 6 ? and 7 ; pi. iii.* fig. 2.

1828. Sphenapteris Mantelli, Brongniart, Prodrome, p. 50.
Sphenopteris Mantelli^ Brongniart, Hist. veg. foss. p. 170, pi. xlv.

figs. 3-7.
1833. Sphenopteris 3fmitelli, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 241.
1833. ? Sphenopteris Sillimani, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 239.
1836. Cheilanthites Mantelli, Goppert, Foss. Farnkrt. p. 231, Nova Acta

Ac. Caes. Leop.-Car. vol. xvii. Supp.

1838. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt. vii. p. 56.

1839. Cheilanthites denticulatus, Roemer, Yerstein. Ool.-Geb. p. 9, pi. x\'ii.

fig. 1.
1843. Cheilanthes {Sphenopteris) Mantelli, Bunker, Progr. p. 5.

1845. Sphenopteris Mantelli, linger, Syn. plant, foss. p. 59.

1846. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 2, pi. i. fig. 4a.
1846. Sphenopteris Eomeri, Bunker, loc. cit. p. 3, pi. i. figs. 3, 4 and 5.
1846. Sphenopteris tenera, Bunker, loc. cit. pi. viii. fig. 5.

1846. ConJ'ervites fissus, Dunker, loc. cit. pi. i. fig. 1.

1848. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl, p. 1169.

* Yokoyama, loc. cit. p. 26.
' Hooker and Baker, p. 143.

42 ONTCHIOPSIS.

1848. ? Sphenopteris Sillimani, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl. p. 1170.
1850. Sphenopteris Mantelli, linger, Gen spec, plant, foss. p. 108.
1851-52. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Bronn, Leth. geog. vol. ii. p. 49,

pi. xxviii. fig. 4ai.
1852. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol, Eeichs. p. 14,

pi. iv. figs. 3 and 4.
1854. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 21.
? Sphenopteris Sillimani, Morris, loc. cit. p. 21.
1865. Microlepia Mantelli, Ettingshausen. Farnkrt. Jetztwelt, p. 216.
1867. Sphenopteris antipodum, Tate, Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xxiii.

p. 139.
1869. Sphenopteris {Davallioides) Mantelli, Schimper^ Trait, pal. veg. vol. i.

p. 393.
1871. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 208,

pi. xxiii. figs. 1-8.
1871. Sphenolepis Kurriana, Schenk, pi. xxv. fig. 6, loc. cit. p. 243, pi.

xxxviii. fig. 2.
1871. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Schenk (in part), loc. cit. pi. xxv. figs. 3 and 3a.

(Not the other figures of this species.)

1874. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Schiniper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii. p. 469.

1875. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii. p. 158,

pi. xxviii. fig. 12.
1878. Sphenopteris Eoemeri, Dupont, Bull. Ac. R. Belg. vol. xlvi. ser. ii.

p. 396.
1881. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Heer, Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 12,

pi. xi. figs. 1-5, pi. xii. figs. 2b and 2bb.
1881. Sphenopteris valdensis, Heer, loc. cit. p. 14, pi. xv. figs. 9, 10 and 13,

pi. xvi. fig. 5i. (The other figures more doubtful.)
1883. ? Trichomanites laxum, Tenison-Woods, Proc. Linn. Soc. N". S.

"Wales, vol. viii. pt. i. p. 95, pi. x. fig. 2.
1883. ? Trichomanites spinifolium, Tenison-Woods, ibid. p. 95, pi. iii. fig. 7.

1889. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Fontaine, Potomac Flora, p. 91, pi. 1. figs.

1 and 2.

1890. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Nathorst, Denksch. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI.

vol. Ivii. p. 55 (referred to Onychium) .

1891. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Saporta, Compt. Bend, cxiii. p. 250.

1891. Sphenopteris Mantelli, Engelhardt, Abh. Isis. Dresden, p. 79.

1892. F Trichomanites laxum, Jack and Etheridge, Geol. Pal. Queensland

and New Guinea, p. 315, pi. xviii. fig. 9.

Type. Portions of pinnse.

The type specimen was originally figured by Stokes and Webb
in an anonymous paper which appeared in the Transactions of the
Geological Society for 1824.^ These authors hesitated to pronounce
a decided opinion on the affinity of the plant, but recognized that

1 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i. p. 421.

ONrcHiopsis. 48

it would ** probably be a Sphenopteris^^ in the system of Brong-
niart. They proposed the name Hymenopteris psilotoides. The
same figure reappears in Mantell's " Illustrations of the Geology
of Sussex " under the original name. The species Sphenopteris
Mantelli is first mentioned by Mantell ^ in a quotation from a letter
received by him from Brongniart, who proposed that the name
Symenopteris psilotoides should be replaced by the more suitable
designation Sphenopteris Mantelli.

Brongniart ^ includes the species in his Prodrome, and gives the
first diagnosis in the Histoire^: —

*' S. foliis bipinnatifidis, pinnis approxiraatis virgatis fastigiatis,
pinnulis obliquis, omnibus integris uninerviis, angustis, cuneatis,
apice oblique truncatis et subemarginatis ; parte exteriori longius
producta."

Since 1828 different writers have added to or variously modified
Brongniart's definition ; without quoting any of these we may
substitute a definition of the species founded on the exceedingly
good material in the National Collection.

Prond tripinnate, ovate lanceolate, rachis winged and prominent ;
pinnae lanceolate, alternate, approximate, given off from the main
rachis at an acute angle. Pinnules alternate, narrow, lanceolate
acuminate, uninerved, of nervation type Coenopteridis ; * the larger
ones serrate and gradually passing into pinnae with narrow ultimate
segments.

Pructification in the form of sessile or shortly stalked linear
ovate segments with rugose surfaces, and terminating usually in
a very short awn-like apical prolongation.

The specimen figured by Mantell in 1827^ (pi. iii. fig. 6) may
belong to this species, but the figure represents a number of
detached fragments which it is impossible to refer with much
certainty to any species. Mantell's Sphenopteris Sillimani^ is very
possibly a badly preserved piece of an Onychiopsis Mantelli frond.
Carruthers,' in his account of the Cretaceous plants in Dixon's

1 Illust. Geol. Sussex, p. 55.

2 Prodrome, p. 60.

^ Hist. veg. foss. p. 170.

* Luerssen, in Rabenhorst's Krypt. Flora, vol. iii. p. 11.

^ Illust. Geol. Sussex.

6 Geol. S.E. England, p. 239.

' Geol. Sussex, p. 282.

44 ONTCHIOPSIS.

** Geology of Sussex," refers to the method of branching in S.
Sillimani as unlike that of ferns, but suggests it may possibly be
the skeleton of part of a frond. It is true that Man toll's specimen
does not by any means closely resemble a typical Onychiopsia
Mantelli fragment, but it agrees fairly well with some of the
more fragmentary and less defined specimens. Schenk^ decides
to regard Confervites Jlftsus, Dunker, as a fragment of 0. Mantelli ,
and is led to this conclusion from an examination of Bunker's type
specimen. There is no appreciable difference between Dunker's
figure of this supposed alga and Mantell's Sphenopteris Sillimani]
it would seem, therefore, that the best course to follow is to regard
both names as synonyms of Onychiopsis Mantelli.

"With regard to the species of Sphenopteris, S. Romeri and
S. tenera, figured by Dunker, there can be little or no doubt that
previous writers have correctly included them under Brongniart's
characteristic Wealden species.

The species of Sphenopteris described and figured by Tate from
the Geelhoutboon beds in the Uitenhage series of South Africa has
not hitherto been compared to 0. Mantelli. This South African
form is compared by Tate'^ to Sphenopteris Jugleri, Ettingshausen
(written in Tate's paper '^ Fiilgeri^'), a species included in this
Catalogue under Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). There is such an
obvious resemblance between S. antipodimn and some of the
pieces of 0. Mantelli fronds from the Ecclesbourne beds, that it
is impossible to point to any difference which would warrant the
retention of Tate's name. After looking at Tate's type specimen
in the Museum of the Geological Society, Burlington House
(41j. Foreign Coll.), I have no hesitation in regarding it as an
example of 0. Mantelli. In the National Collection there are
a few specimens of this plant from Africa, e.g. V. 2399 and
V. 2401. In the descriptions and illustrations of North
German specimens Schenk has added considerably to our know-
ledge of this species, but he failed to recognize the fact,
since pointed out by Nathorst, that one of his figured specimens
of Sphenolepis Kurriana, Schenk,^ is in reality part of a fertile
frond of 0. Mantelli. One of the specimens figured by Schenk* as

1 Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 209.

2 Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xxiii. 1867, p. 139, pi. vi. fig. 3.
^ Pala3ontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxxviii. fig. 2.

* Loc. cit. pi. XXV. fig. 3.

ONYCHIOPSIS. 45

S. Gopperti is most probably a piece of a pinna of 0. Mantelli,
I have little doubt that the specimens figured by Heer from
Almargem, Portugal, as Sphenopteris valdensis are fragments of
0. Mantelli ; they correspond very closely with the coarser pinnae
of the latter species. Cf. e.g. Heer's figs. 9 and 10, pi. xv.*
with the large frond from Ecclesbourne, PL II. Pig. 1. Possibly
fig. 11 of Heer represents another species, Ruffordia Gopperti.

In 1883 Tenison-Woods'^ published an account of the fossil flora
of the Coal deposits of Australia ; in his list of ferns are included
two new species, Trichomanites laxum and T. spinifoliumy both of
which, so far as it is possible to judge from the poor figures, may
in all probability be referred to Onychiopsis Mantelli.

Messrs Jack and Etheridge, in their recent work on *' The
Geology and Pala3ontology of Queensland and IS'ew Guinea,"'' have
referred a fern from the Burrum beds of Queensland to Tenison-
Woods' species, T. laxum ; the figure of this plant leads me to
refer it, with very little hesitation, to the characteristic species of
the European "Wealden beds. The age of the Eurrum beds is not
precisely defined; ** newer than the Permo- Carboniferous, and
older than the Upper Cretaceous." ^

Fontaine, in his Monograph on the Potomac Plora, has instituted
several new species of Kunze's isolated genus Thyrsopteris. On
examining his figures of the various types, one cannot help feeling
that the grounds on which the genus has been chosen are some-
what insufficient. After speaking of Heer's description of
Thyrsopteris^ he notes a close resemblance between some of
the Potomac forms and the sterile fronds of Kunze's genus, and
goes on to say : ^ '* These {i.e. the Potomac specimens) I place
provisionally in the genus Thyrsopteris^ on account of the great
resemblance that the shape of the pinnules, the lobing, and the
nervation show to the sterile forms of the various species deter-
mined to be Thyrsopteris by their fructification. As, however, no
fructification is found in the Potomac species, the placing of these
plants in the genus must be regarded as provisional." Finally, we
read : "It should be noted that a number of the species of Thy r so-

1 Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881.

2 Proc. Linn. Soc. N. S. Wales, vol. viii. pt. i. 1883, p. 37.
» Ihid. p. 315.

4 Ihd, p. 301.

* Potomac Flora, p. 120.

46 ONTCHIOPSIS.

pteris described in the following pages show a good many features
similar to those of Sphenopteris Mantelli^ as described by Schenk
and Heer." In his description of T. rarinervis, Fontaine speaks
of his new species as ^ " one of the Sphenopteris MantelU type, and
perhaps by some would be united with that species, but it is more
robust, and the pinnules are more like those of the Thyrsopteris
type." Again, in describing T, insigim and T. insignis, var.
angiistipennis, the same author adds that both represent plants
belonging to the S. MantelU type.'^ Prom an examination of
Fontaine's figures of the various species of Thyrsopteris, it is
difficult in some cases to thoroughly appreciate those characteristics
which have served to separate the closely allied forms.

In discussing **/S. Mantelliy'' Fontaine refers to its polymorphous
nature, and prefers to include several plants of the MantelU type
under the genus Thyrsopteris. Except in cases where the fructi-
fication has been preserved it is questionable whether the better
course would not be to retain the old name, and not introduce new
ones without trustworthy evidence. Fortunately some of the
specimens recently acquired by the British Museum show distinct
fertile segments, and thus enable us to refer the species with some
degree of certainty to its living representative ; the character of
this fructification lends no support to the suggested relationship
between Thyrsopteris and 0. MantelU.

The figures of Thyrsopteris insigms^ show a striking resemblance
to 0. MantelU, but in the larger specimens there appears a certain
difference of habit, and, in addition to this, Fontaine refers to some
other differences in detail. His figures of the variety angustipennis^
would at once be taken for 0. MantelU, were it not that the rachis
is not winged and that other points of divei^ence are insisted on.
The same reference has been made by Yelenovsky ^ to Thyrsopteris
in the case of ferns which must now be included under the genus
Onychiopsis.

In a recent paper by !N'athorst,^ referred to in the list of
synonyms, we find the statement that Sphenopteris MantelU will

1 Potomac Flora, p. 123.

2 Ibid. p. 128.

3 Ibid. pi. xliii. iigs. 1-3.

* Ibid. pi. xlii. fig. 3 ; pi. xliii. fig. 2.

5 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vol. ii. 1888, p. 10.

^ Loc. cit. p. 55.

ONTCHIOPSIS. 47

become Onychiopsis Mantelli ; this change being a necessary con-
sequence of the discovery by Yokoyama of fertile pinnae in
Onychiopsis elongata (Geyl.), a Japanese plant very closely allied to
the Western 0. Mantelli. Previous to Yokoyama' s important paper
in the Journal of the Imperial University of Japan, in which the
generic name Onychiopsis is first proposed, a very similar fern
with fertile segments had been figured by Yelenovsky, from the
Cenomanian beds of Bohemia, under the name I'hyrsopteris
capsulifera ', ^ these species, as Nathorst remarks, must also pass
into the newer genus. These discoveries of such characteristic
Onychium-like fructifications enable us to include under Yoko-
yama's genus a group of plants previously referred to Sphenopteris,
Thyrsopteris, Dicksonia, etc., and, at the same time, afford valuable
evidence as to the existence of an Onychium type of fern in Upper
Mesozoic times in England, North Germany, Bohemia, Japan, and
several other districts.

Finally, the same species has recently been recorded by
Engelhardt from the Cenomanian of Niederschona ; unfortunately
no figures accompany the description.

As Zeiller^ has pointed out, this discovery of a "Wealden fern
in rocks referred to a higher horizon in the Cretaceous system is of
considerable interest.

In the diagnosis of the species reference has been made to the
characters of the fertile pinnae, which will be more fully dealt with
in the descriptions of such examples as occur in the collections
(V. 1069, V. 2151, V. 2159, V. 2159a). Having found the fertile
specimens of this well-known species I endeavoured to determine
what genus of recent ferns might best be taken as the nearest
living representative; the two genera Onychium, Kaulf., and
Cryptogramme, R. Br., appeared to come nearest to the fossil
forms, but of the two the former showed a more intimate re-
semblance.

No distinct traces of sporangia have been detected in the fossil
species, and the comparison between Onychium and Onychiopsis
Mantelli is, therefore, based on the general habit of the fertile
fronds and the form of the sporangiferous pinnules. "Whilst still in
doubt as to how far the evidence at command warranted a change

1 Velenovsky, loc. cii. pi. i. figs 6-12.

2 Ann. geol. vol. viii. 1892-93, p. 893.

48 ONTcniopsis.

of name, I found that Yokoyama* had figured and described the
same kind of fertile pinnae in a Japanese *' Jurassic" fern very
closely allied to the European Onychiopsis Mantelli ; but in his
description of the Japanese species, Otiychiopsis elongata (Greyl.),
there is no reference made to Brongniart's species. He compares
his fertile specimens to the same recent genera already referred to,
Onychium, Kaulf., and Cryptogramyne^ K. Br., and on the strength
of the strong likeness to the former he founds his new genus,
Onychiopais. There is such an exceedingly intimate connection
between Yokoyama's species and our English specimens, that I
have no hesitation in following the suggestion previously made
by Kathorst, and altering the well-known Sphenopteris Mantelli^
Brong., to Onychiopteris Mantelli (Brong.), thus substituting for a
provisional generic name one which recognizes the botanic affinity
of the Wealden species.

V. 2168. PI. II. Fig. 1.

A very fine specimen, and much larger than any hitherto figured
of this species. It shows very clearly the general habit of the
tripinnate frond, but the details are not clearly defined. Length of
frond 18 cm., breadth about 12 cm. The resemblance of some parts
of this specimen to Heer's figures of Sphenopteris valdensis has
already been alluded to ; there is also a distinct agreement between
the pinnae and the fragment figured by Tate from South Africa as
S. antipodum. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2151^. PI. III. Eig. 1.

In this specimen we have an exceedingly delicate (?) frond
which, on a smaller scale, repeats the characters of the species as
represented in V. 2168, PI. II. Eig. 1. The marked diff'erence in
size led me to consider the advisability of instituting a variety,
0. Mantelli, var. minor, but such a course would merely serve to
multiply terms, and would not be supported by any characters
of trustworthy value as regards natural affinity. A diff'erence in
size, although strongly marked, is not a character to be lightly
insisted on as a basis for a species or variety when we are dealing
with fragments of fossil plants. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

1 Joum. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. 1890, p. 26, pi. ii. figs. 1-3.

ONYCHIOPSIS. 49

fV. 1069. PI. III. Fig. 4. Ecclesbourne.

Presented by P. Rufford, Esq., 1885.

V. 2151. PI. III. Fig. 2.

V. 2159. PI. III. Fig. 3, and Woodcut, Fig. 4, p. 50.
LV. 2159«. Woodcut, Fig. 5, p. 50.

Ecclesbourne.
Rufford Coll.

In PL III . Fig. 2 (V. 2151) we have portions of pinnae showing
all the characteristics of Onychiopsis Mantelli. At a the lower
part of a pinna is preserved with the axis prolonged, and bearing
alternately disposed narrow ovate appendages ; these appendages
must be regarded as fertile segments of the pinna. There is a
gradual transition seen from the sterile to the fertile part in the
right-hand fragment shown in Fig. 2<?. In the same Figure, at h,
the terminal portion of a fertile pinna is more perfectly preserved,
and here the distal end of the axis has the characteristic serrate
form of the tip of an ordinary sterile frond.

In PL III. Fig. 4 (V. 1069) three fertile axes are shown ; these,
if taken alone, would doubtless be referred to a position far
removed from Onychiopsis Mantelli, but if we compare them with
the terminal portions of the pinnae of Fig. 2 (V. 2151), there can
be no doubt as to their real nature. At the tip of the right-hand
axis the serrate character is readily seen, as previously noticed in
PL III. Fig. 2i, but this is rather too small to be distinct in the
figure. The specimen (V. 1069) shown in Fig. 4 affords strong
proof of the intimate relationship between 0. Mantelli and
0. elongata (GeyL), as figured by Geyler.^

The details of the fertile segments are best seen in PL III. Fig. 3
(V. 2159) ; three of the segments are enlarged 3i times in the
Woodcut, Fig. 4 (p. 50).

In the Woodcut, Fig. 5, four segments of another specimen are
also enlarged 31 times; these are somewhat shorter and show a
much more distinct median line. Compare with these figures
Yokoyama's figure of 0. elongata ^"^ there is a close agreement, as
regards the fertile segments. Cf. also Yelenovsky's figure of
Onychiopsis {Thyrsopteris of Yelenovsky) capsulifera, Yel.^

1 Pala3ontographica, voL xxiv. pL xxxi. fig. 5.

2 Yokoyama, loc. cit. pL ii. fig. 4i.
2 Yelenovsky, loc. cit. pi. i. fig. 10.

50 ONTCHIOPSIS.

An examination with a low magnifying power enables us to
describe the fertile segments as swollen, narrow, ovate bodies,
often prolonged at the apex into a delicate awn- like termination ;
with rugose surfaces, a thin flattened margin, and occasionally
a longitudinal median depression. The roughness of the surface
on further enlargement, e.g. Fig. 4, resolves itself in some of the
better specimens into small circular areas, which probably mark
the position of sporangia.

Fertile segments of Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).
Fig. 4 (V. 2159). Fig. 5 (V. 2159<?).

Enlarged 3^ times. Enlarged 3J times.

Among recent ferns there can be little doubt that Omjchium
conies nearest to 0. Mantelli in the form of the fertile segments.
The sporangia are clustered together in oval sori covered by an
indusium, and often prolonged apically into a delicate appendage.
The circular areas referred to in the fossil no doubt indicate
sporangia, and the median groove seen in some cases, if not an
accident of preservation, may correspond to a similarly situated
depression in the sori of Onychium. The flat and thin margin
in all probability corresponds to the flattened indusium border in
the recent genus. Fee's figures of Onychium ^ show very clearly
the character of the fertile pinnules. Some specimens of Onychium
auratum, Kaulf., in the Botanical Department Herbarium of the
British Museum show fertile segments strikingly similar in form
to those of the Wealden fern; in the recent species the arrange-
ment of these sporangiferous segments is looser and less compact
and regular than those shown in PI. III. Figs. 1 and 2. The recent

* Fee, Genera Fihcum, pi. vii. c.

omrcHiopsis, 61

specimens also show a similar passage from the fertile part of a
pinna to a terminal serrate portion, as represented in the fossil
specimens, PI. III. Tigs. 2-4. Onychium Japonicum^ Kunze, also
agrees very well with the fossil species.

These resemblances appear to me amply sufficient to justify the
adoption of the name Onychiopsis in pl^ce of Sphenopteris, in spite
of the fact that we are unable to decide how far the sporangia
support this reference to the Polypodiacece.

Fertile fronds of Cryptogramme crispa, R. Br., also approach
fairly closely in appearance to those of 0. Mantelli, but the likeness
is much less pronounced than in the case of Onychium.

Since writing the above I have found that the Marquis of Saporta
has recorded the occurrence of fertile specimens of Sphenopteria
Mantelli at Quinta-do-Leiriao,^ and other localities in Portugal;
he considers that the fructification agrees most closely with that
of Bavallia, especially D. gibberosa, ^w? My thanks are due to
the Marquis of Saporta for some further details as to the Mesozoic
flora of Portugal which he has very kindly communicated to me.
In a letter recently received (December 30, 1893), he states his
opinion that the reference of Sphenopteris Mantelli to the recent
genus Bavallia seems to be more natural than that of Yokoyama,
who refers the closely-allied species, S. elongata^ to Onychium) at
the same time Saporta does not consider the question as definitely
settled. In the forthcoming monograph on the Mesozoic flora of
Portugal we shall have plates and detailed descriptions, which will
enable us to consider more fully the rival claims of Bavallia and
Onychium as to which is the most nearly allied genus to the widely
distributed Wealden species. Meanwhile, I do not wish to alter
my opinion that the evidence afforded by the English specimens
is distinctly in favour of the substitution of Onychiopsis for
Sphenopteris, as expressing the most probable relation of the fossil
fern to the genus Onychium.

V. 2189. Woodcut, Fig. 6.

This specimen, with several others, e.g. V. 2188, V. 2314^, etc.,
probably represents part of a rhizome of 0. Mantelli. The surface

1 Rev. gen. bot. vol. v. 1893, p. 272.

^ I am unable to detect in fertile fronds of Davallia gibberosa any distinct
resemblance to the fossil form.

52 oirrcHiopsis.

of the repeatedly branched stem is covered with small scaly-
structures, reminding one of the rhizome of the Hare's-foot fern.
Some of the specimens are larger than that shown in the Figure,
but are not so clearly preserved ; in all cases there occur fragments
of 0. Mantelli fronds in close association with the branched scaly
structures. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

Fig. 6 (V. 2189). Part of a rhizome of Onychiopsis Mantelli. (Natural size.)

V. 709. Eachis shown very clearly. Tilgate Forest.

Purchased,

V. 723. This fragment looks very like the terminal portion of
a fertile frond or pinna. Cf. Yokoyama, loc. cit. pi. ii. fig. 4
(0. elongata). Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V, 1069a. Distinct rachis. This specimen shows some pinnae
with long close- set pinnules very similar to those of 0. elongata.
Cf. V. 2371, PI. II. Fig. 3. Cf. Thyrsopteris microphylla,
Fontaine, loc. cit. pl. xlv. ; also T. sp., pi. xliii. Near Hastings.

Rufford Coll.

V. 1069J. Ehizome with associated fragments of pinnae. Eccles-
boume. Rufford Coll.

V. 2151fl. Very similar to V. 2151, PI. III. Fig. 2.

V. 21515. Portion of a weU-preserved frond. Ecclesboume.

Rufford Coll.

ONYCHIOPSIS. 53

V. 2188. A much branched and spreading rhizome, with its
surface covered with small depressions representing the points of
attachment of scales; in some places there is a carbonaceous
covering preserved. As usual with specimens of this kind there
are associated fragments of 0. Mantelli pinnae. This form of
rhizome resembles that which is characteristic of some recent
Davallias, and is more spreading than the usual form met with in
species of Onychium. Such differences, however, in the nature of
the stems need not be looked upon as an argument of very great
weight in questions of generic affinity, when Mesozoic and Recent
ferns are compared. Ecclesbourne. Purchased 1839.

V. 2231. Ehizome fragments with scaly surface markings, and
on the same specimen portions of fronds. Cf. Woodcut, Fig. 6,
p. 52, V. 2189. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2235. Part of a spreading rhizome with less clearly preserved
leaf fragments. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2241^. Several well-preserved sterile pinnae and portions of
sterile fronds on a large slab. Ecclesbourne. Rufiord Coll.

V. 2314. Fragments of circinately rolled fern fronds, one much
more perfect than the others. There are also several pieces of
rhizome-like structures, some showing the characteristic scaly
appendages. On the same slab of sandstone occur fragments of
what may be 0. Mantelli, but they are very indistinct and
doubtful. I have included this specimen under the head of
0. Mantelli, although there is no absolute proof that the various
fragments really belong to that fern. Cf. Schenk, Palaeontographica,
vol. xix. pi. XXX. figs. 4 and 5, also vol. xxiii. pi. xxvi. fig. 2.

V. 2314a. Probably a rhizome with the basal portions of petioles
attached ; shows the rough scaly surface. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2348. Eachis clearly preserved, 12*5 cm. long. Somewhat
less compact in habit than most examples of the species. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2369. Rhizome fragments with leaf-stalks attached ; also
pieces of pinnae. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

54 ONTCHIOPSIS.

V. 2616. Under this number there are two specimens of a
coarser form of 0. Mantelli. Sussex. Beclcles Coll.

7354. Two small specimens (one without a registered number,
but probably the reverse of 7354), which closely resemble some
fragments figured by Mantell ^ and Brongniart.* Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

8390. This agrees closely with Mantell, loe. cit. pi. xx. fig. 2,
and Brongniart, loc. cit. pi. xlv. fig. la. It is possible that the
figured specimen was the reverse piece of the Museum example.
Tilgate Forest. Mantell Coll.

32593. Shows a prominent rachis projecting from the surface
of the sandstone. Tilgate Forest. Mantell Coll.

38367. Part of a pinna. This specimen bears a certain resem-
blance to that figured by Stokes and "Webb,^ pi. xlvi. fig. 7,. and
reproduced in Mantell's " Geol. S.E. England," and in Brongniart's
** Hist. veg. foss." There are, however, distinct difi'erences
between the specimen and the figures referred to, which compel
me to merely suggest the possibility of the Museum specimen
being the reverse piece of Stokes and Webb's original. Tilgate
Forest. Mantell Coll.

38372. In all probability this is the type specimen of Mantell's
Sphenopteris Sillimani, figured in the '* Geol. S.E. England,"
p. 239. Hastings Sands, Sussex. Mantell Coll.

The following specimens do not call for any special mention.
V. 14, Hastings, purchased ; V. 724 and V. 726, Hastings, Dawson
Coll. ; V. 728 and V. 2232, Ecclesbourne, Eiifford Coll. ; V. 2615,
V. 2856. V. 2862, V. 2868 and V. 2876, near Hastings, Deckles
Coll. ; 8084 and 8361, Tilgate Forest, Mantell Coll. ; 52942 (several
specimens with this registered number), Ecclesbourne, presented hy
J. E. S. Peyton, Esq.

1 Illust. Geol. Sussex, pi. i. figs. 3a, Zb.

2 Hist. veg. foss. pi. xlv. fig. 4.

3 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i.

ONTCHIOPSIS. 55

2.— Onychiopsis elongata (Geyler).

1871. Sphmopteris Gopperti, Schenk (in part), Palaeontographica, vol. xix.

pi. XXX. figs, 2 and 2a (not the other figures).
1877. Thyrsopteris elongata, Geyler, Palaeontographica, vol. xxiv. p. 221.
1883. Thyrsopteris elongata, Schenk, Richthofen's China, vol. iv. p. 263,

pi. liv. fig. 1.
1886. Dicksonia elongata, Yokoyama, Bull. Geol. Soc. Japan, vol. i. No. 1,

p. 5.

1889. Thyrsopteris rarinervis, Fontaine, Potomac Flora, p. 124, pi. xxvi.

figs. 6 and 7 ; pi. xliii. figs. 4-6 ; pi. xliv. figs. 1, 2 and 5 ;
pi. xlix. fig. 2 ; pi. clxix. figs. 6 and 7.

1890. Onychiopsis elongata, Yokoyama, Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii.

p. 27, pi. ii. figs. 1-3; pi. iii. fig. 6d; pi. xii. figs. 9 and 10.
1890. Onychiopsis elongata, Nathorst, Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. Cl.
vol. Mi. p. 55.

Type. Sterile and fertile portions of frond.

The species, instituted by Geyler from specimens found in the
Province of Kaga, Japan, is thus defined^: —

" Th. fronde bi-tripinnata, pinnis pinnulisque elongatis, pinnulis
inferioribus imprimis longissimis ; pinnulis sterilibus crenatis sen
pinnatifidis in apicem sensim protractis, lobis obtusiusculis, pinnulis
fertilibus eodem modo valde elongatis, involucris breviter stipitatis,
ovalibus seu ? rotundatis."

The few fragments in the Museum collections referred to this
species add nothing to the definitions given by Geyler and
Yokoyama; the latter had the more perfect material at his
disposal, and his diagnosis may therefore be reproduced verbatim.

** Frond slender,^ bi-tripinnated ; sterile pinnae alternate or
rarely opposite, elongated, their length rapidly increasing towards
the lower part of the frond ; pinnules alternate, acutely directed
forward, lanceolate or linearly-lanceolate, entire or lobed, or even
pinnately parted; lobes or partitions acute at apex and acutely
directed forward just like the pinnules themselves. Venation
obsolete, secondary veins simple, each going into a lobe. Fertile
pinnules elongated, with a linear terminal sorus on both sides of
the midrib."

Geyler compares his species with some previously described and
figured by Heer under the generic name Thyrsopteris, from East

1 Palaeontographica, vol. xxiv. p. 224.
* Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. p. 27.

56 ONYCHIOPSIS.

Siberia and Amurland, and considers the resemblance close enough
to justify the inclusion of the Japanese species in the same genus.
The resemblance between the fertile axis of 0. elongata, figured by
Geyler, to those of 0. Mantelli (V. 1069, PI. III. Fig. 4) has
already been referred to.

In Richthofen's "China" Schenk figures some portions of a
frond from Japan, without any more exact locality, which he
places with Geyler' s species. Most probably, as Schenk points out,
this specimen belongs to the common Japanese type, 0. elongata
(Geyl.).

Schenk's figure of Sphenopteris Gbpperti, referred to in the
synonomy, seems to me indistinguishable from 0. elongata. Cf.
Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxx. fig. 2, and PI. II.
Fig. 2 of this Catalogue.

Yokoyama, in the first of the two papers referred to above,
includes 0. elongata in his list of fossils under the name Dtcksonia
elongata ; in his second and more important work, the genus
Onychiopsis is substituted for the original name of Dichsmiia. He
speaks of the species as the "chief and characteristic fossil of the
Japanese Flora, being found in all of the fossil localities." ^ From
Fontaine's long list of the species of Thyrsopteris I have included
one as a synonym of 0. elongata; but it is not at all unlikely that
several of the Potomac " species" ought to be placed, if not in the
same species, at least very near to the Japanese form. In the
general remarks at the end of the Potomac Monograph we have
the following statement with regard to the genus Thyrsopferis :^
" It is true that, as no fructification has been found on these ferns,
they may be incorrectly placed in the genus Thy r sapiens. ^^ " The
species," says Fontaine, "most of them well characterized, number
forty." A number of them are described as possessing "the same
type of foliage as the "Wealden ferns, S. Mantelli, Erong. ;
S. Gopperti, Dunker; S. Cordai, Schenk; S. plurmervi'a, Heer;
and S. Gomestana, Heer." Lastly, we are told, "most of them
are new and unique. One or two have some resemblance to
Oolitic species, while a greater number may be grouped as belong-
ing to the two Wealden types, S. Mantelli and S. Gopperti.^^

Here we have forty new species founded on sterile fronds, or

* Zoo. eit. p. 28.
2 p. 120.

oirrcHiopsis. 67

portions, sometimes extremely minute portions, of fronds, and all
placed in the recent genus Thyrsopteris. One would naturally
expect that this remarkable assemblage of species, called by the
name of a unique living genus, should rest on trustworthy
evidence. The author of these forty species himself admits that
no fructification has been found; surely this admission will be
sufficient in itself to make botanists pause before they allow them-
selves to be lost in contemplation of the wealth of specific form
displayed by these Potomac plants, or to assume as an established
fact that Kunze's solitary species was represented in the Potomac
vegetation by such a host of ancestors. We may justly ask — Are
there differences enough, and sufficiently well marked, between
these numerous varieties to warrant the result arrived at ; and,
secondly, is the evidence at hand strong enough to justify the use
of the name Thyrsopteris, or even a modification of it which
would be suggestive of something not quite so certain and well
founded ?

To the first question I am strongly of opinion that the answer
is a decided negative. It must be admitted that my evidence is
entirely based on an examination of Fontaine's figures and descrip-
tions, and has not the weight of testimony derived from an actual
inspection of the specimens themselves. To the second question,
the admission that no trace of a fertile pinna or pinnule has been
recognized is, I am disposed to think, a sufficient reply. It would
be a presumption and beyond my province, to attempt to describe
how many species are represented by the ^^ Thyrsopteris^^ specimens
found in the Potomac beds ; but it is at least possible to indicate a
few of those cases in which the determinations of Fontaine are not
such as I feel able to accept.

The species T. Virginica ^ is founded on specimens of the "pinnae
of ultimate order," and the fragments figured might easily be
included in some of the thirty-nine remaining forms without the
unnecessary institution of an additional species. Another instance
of the same kind is afforded by T. alata, which depends for its
existence on part of a pinna apparently indistinguishable from
T. Meekiana.

In describing T. rarinervis"^ Fontaine refers to it as " one of the

1 Loc. cit. p. 120, pi. xxiv. fig. 1.

2 Loc. cit. p. 123.

58 ONTCHIOPSIS.

Sphenopteris Mayitelli type," and adds: "It resembles more than
any other described fossil Thyrsopteris elongata, Geyler." If we
look at Fontaine's pi. xxvi. figs. 6 and 7, and compare with
Geyler's pi. xxxi. fig. 4, it is well-nigh impossible to agree that
these are different species, to say nothing of distinct genera ; or,
again, it is difficult to separate, on good grounds, fig. 2, pi. xlir.
of Fontaine from Onychiopsis elongata as figured by Yokoyama,
pi. ii. fig 2. It is true that Fontaine's specimens show in some
cases a stouter rachis than occurs in the Japanese examples.

There seems to be but slender evidence in support of
T. Meekiana, var. angustiloha. Cf. 0. elongata \ e.g. Fontaine,
pi. xliii. fig. 8, and Yokoyama, pi. ii. fig. 2.

The species of Onychiopsis described by Velenovsky,^ referred
to below, should be compared with T. crenata, pi. xxxix. fig. 1,
Fontaine, and Velenovsky, pi. i. fig. 9.

In T. densifolia, Font., we have a fern which seems to be very-
similar to Yokoyama's fig. 2, pi. ii. of 0. elongata ; the difference
consists in the somewhat broader pinnules of the former. The
figures of T. densifolia suggest a form of plant identical with that
represented by T. Meekiana, Font., e.g. pi. xxxviii. fig. 3.

Another of these " Thyrsopteris" species, T. ynicrophylla, is
referred by Fontaine to the ** Sphenopteris Mantelli type," and
the figures of this species appear to me illustrations of the plant
included under the name T. angustifolia ; both come near to 0,
elongata. Compare also T. pinnatijida, Font., pi. Ii. fig. 2, etc.,
with 0. elongata, and with the latter species T. inmquipinnataj
Font.

T. elliptica, Font., is described as "not very close to any
previously described fossil ; " ^ there appears, indeed, to be a rather
close resemblance between the figures of this species, pi. xlvi.
fig. 1, and T. demifolia, Font., pi. xl. fig. 4. In addition to the
two species T. Virginica and T. alata, to which allusion has been
made as examples of specific determinations which are without
such claim as entitles them to serious recognition as well-defined
types, a third may be mentioned, T. heterophylla, Font., which does
not appeal more strongly for acceptance, if we may judge by the
figured fragments, pi. Iviii. figs. 3 and ^a.

* Loc. cit. p. 10, pl. i. figs. 6-12.

* Fontaine, loc. cit. i^. 133.

ONTCHIOPSIS.

59

Although not included under the present species, 0. elongata^
there is a plant which must be briefly alluded to as an example of
the same genus, and probably very closely allied to Geyler's species.
In 1888 Velenovsky contributed an important communication,
apparently overlooked by some recent writers, on ''Die Fame
der bohmischen Kreideformation"; he includes in his list of
Cenomanian ferns from the Perucer beds a new species, Thyrso-
pteris capsulifera,^ and compares it to T. Maaktana, Heer, and
especially to 0. elongata (Geyler). Several figures are given
both of sterile and fertile pinnae, and the figure of the fertile
axis, pi. i. fig. 10, represents what is obviously the same type
of fertile pinna as Geyler's pi. xxxi. fig. 5 and PI. III. Figs. 2-4
of this Catalogue. Possibly the differences which are shown in
the figures by Yelenovsky, Geyler, and Yokoyama, between
T. capsulifera and T. elongata, are hardly of sufficient importance
to render a second specific name necessary ; the chief divergence
being the greater breadth of the ultimate segments in most of
the Bohemian specimens.

Nathorst,'^ in calling attention to this paper by Yelenovsky,
notes the fact that the species T. capsulifera possesses fructification
exactly like that of 0. elongata, and must, therefore, be included
in the same genus.

In looking through the English Wealden material it has often
been difficult to decide the limits to assign to the two species
0. Mantdli and 0. elongata ; the coarser forms of the former come
very near to the latter species.

So far, however, I have included only one specimen in this
species. It is not impossible that we may eventually have to
include even those forms with larger and broader pinnules in the
species 0. Mantelli ; for the present, at least, there seem to be
good reasons for referring such specimens as the one figured,
PL II. Fig 2, to Geyler's species.

V. 2371. PI. II. Fig. 2.

In this Figure are represented the best of several fragments
which occur on the same piece of rock. On the same specimen
are some badly preserved fragments of Cladophlehis Dunkeri
(Schimp.).

1 Abk. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vol. ii. 1888, p. 10.

* Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol. Ivii. p. 55.

60 ACEOSTICHOPTEEIS.

Cf. Thyrsopteris Meektana, var. angustiloha, Font., pi. Ivi. etc. ;
also Sphenopteris Manfelli, Schenk, PalsBontographica, vol. xix.
pi. XXV. fig. 6 ; Sphenopteris Gopperti, Schenk, loc. cit. pi. xxx.
fig. 2 ; and Asplenium Dicksomanum, Heer, from the Kome beds
of Greenland, Fl. foss. Arct. iii. pi. i. Ecclesboume.

Hufford Coll.

Genus ACROSTICHOPTERIS, Fontaine.
[Potomac Flora, U.S. Geol. Surv. Monograph, xv, 1889, p. 106.]

Fontaine has instituted this genus for certain fossil ferns
** peculiar to the Potomac formation" ; he considers that it stands
nearest in most features to Acrostichum among recent genera.

The genus is thus described^: —

"Fronds, probably creeping, with very long, often flexuous,
rachises, which seem to have been more or less succulent ; pinnae
going off obliquely, long and apparently slender; ultimate pinnae
or pinnules sub-opposite to alternate, comparatively short, and
cut down nearly to the rachis into more or less cuneate-flabellate
pinnules or primary segments. These are divided generally into
cuneate-flabellate segments, which in turn are separated into
oblong segments ending in oblong, or ovate-obtuse, or acute
teeth ; pinnules decurrent and forming a wing ; nerves slender
but distinct, flabellately diverging, forking dichotomously, and
ending in the teeth ; fructification occurring on the basal segments
of the pinnules, in the upper portions of the frond on the upper
one alone, in the lower portions on the upper and lower ones;
the fructified segments, which on the lower side are covered by
the naked sori, and seen from the upper side, especially when
compressed on the clay, look like pods."

In the figures of the Potomac species of this genus there are
several fertile specimens shown, but no detailed sporangial structure.
Perhaps the best figure is that of a fertile pinnule of Acrosti-
chopteris longipennis, Font., pi. clxxi. fig. 7a. Fontaine concludes
that '' the genus in the naked sori is like Folypodiuniy but in

Potomac Flora, p. 106.

ACKOSTICHOPTERIS.

61

most features stands nearest to Acrostichum, much resembling the
section Rhipidopteris. In this latter, however, the fructification
is borne on separate pinnules. If we place the fructified pinnules
of RMpidopteris as basal segments on the sterile ones, we have
a form strikingly like Acrostichopteris. The genus has also some
resemblance to Marsilea.^^^

It is doubtful if the generic name Acrostichopteris be the most
suitable for such specimens as the English rocks have afforded.
In Fontaine's specimens there is some evidence as to fructification
characters, but in the few fragments from Ecclesbourne there
are no traces of fertile leaves. The similarity, however, between
the American and English specimens appears to be exceedingly
close, and the habit represented by the various species is not one
which occurs very commonly among recent genera.

In the recent species Acrostichum peltatum, Sw.,^ the sterile
leaves have the same deeply divided pinnules with narrow segments
as those of A. Ruffordi^ but in the latter form there are several
pairs of pinnules attached to one axis; the difference in the
arrangement of the fertile pinnules has already been alluded to
by Prof. Fontaine.

It is difficult to determine whether such specimens as those
described below should be spoken of as pinnae of a frond with a
creeping rachis, or as the pinnate leaves of a creeping rhizome,
as in Acrostichum peltatum. I have placed the genus in the Poly-
podiacece on the strength of Fontaine's conclusions, drawn from
much more complete material than the British Museum affords.
The evidence as to family characters is best seen in the figures
of American specimens ; it is by no means all that could be desired.

1. — Acrostichopteris Ruffordi, sp. nov.

Type. Pinnse and portions of rachis. In the British Museum.

Main rachis probably creeping, bipinnate, pinnae linear ; pinnules
alternate, rhomboidal or cuneate, deeply divided into narrow
cuneate segments with acute or obtuse teeth. Venation of the
Ctenopteridis type. No fructification preserved.

1 Potomac Flora, p. 106.

2 Fee, Genera Filicum, pi. ii.

62 CTATHEACILSl.

This species comes very near to Acrostichopteris demifolia^^
Font., but differs in the shape of the pinnules ; in ^. Ruffordi
they are less orbicular in form, but on the other hand shorter
than in another Potomac species, A. longipennu,'^ Font.

V. 2327. PI. YI. Fig. 3.

A single sterile pinna, or possibly a pinnate frond. The re-
peatedly forked veins well shown, with their single branches in the
narrowly linear ultimate segments. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2327<? Fragments of pinnae, also what is probably part of
the main rachis of the frond showing the point of attachment of
one pinna. Close to this portion of the rachis there is a flexuous
structure which at first sight appears to be a continuation of the
former piece ; the two are, however, at slightly different levels in
the ironstone matrix, but in all probability both may be regarded
as fragments of the rachis ; on the second piece there are here and
there the beginnings of several lateral branches which may possibly
be roots. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

Family CYATHEACE^.

The oblique annulus and the transverse dehiscence of the
sporangia are the chief distinguishing features of this family.

The genus Matonidium, Schenk, may probably be regarded as a
"Wealden representative of the recent genus Matonia, R. Br. ; the
latter, according to Baker,^ should be placed in a tribe by itself,
and not united with the Cyatheacecs.

Genus MATONIDIUM, Schenk.
[Palseontographica, vol. xix. 1871, p. 219,]

This genus, founded on specimens of sterile and fertile fronds
from the Wealden of Korth Germany, is thus defined : —

*' Folia sterilia et fertilia conformia flabellato-pinnata, segmenta

1 Potomac Flora, p. 107, pi. xciv. fig. 4 ; pi, clxx, fig, 11, etc.
« Ibid. p. 107, pi. clxx. fig. 10 ; pi. clxxi. figs, 1, 5 and 7.
« Annals Bot. vol. v. 1890-91, p. 192.

^CATONIDIUM. 63

pinnatifida. ITervi primarii excurrentes, secundarii angulo subrecto
egredientes dichotomi, ramuli simplices. Sori biseriales oblongi
indusiati. Sporangia receptaculo in ramulo affixa. Annulus
obliquus."

When this fossil genus was first instituted by Schenk there
was only one species recorded of the recent Matonia, and the
characteristic and peculiar habit of that species, M. pectinata, Er.,
suggested the term Matonidium for fronds of similar form. It
is important, in speaking of this similarity of form and of the
Matonia-like habit, to remember the recent addition of a second
species, M. sarmentosa, Baker, ^ which has an entirely different
habit to that which has always been regarded as typical of the
genus. Baker's figure of this new species shows in a striking
manner the danger of trusting to sterile portions of fronds in.
the determination of generic affinity,

1.— Matonidium Gbpperti (Ett).

1843. Cycadites AUhausii, Bunker, Progr. p, 7.

1846. Fecopteris AUhausii, Bunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 5, pi. ii. fig. 2.

Fecopteris polydactyla. Bunker, loc. cit. p. 5, pi. vii. fig. 4.

Fecopteris Conybeari, Bunker, loc. cit. p. 7, pi. ix. figs. 8 and 8a.

Alethopteris elegans, Bunker, loc. cit. p. 8, pi. vii. fig. 7.

1849. Fecopteris polydactyla, Brongniart, Tableau, p, 107.
Fecopteris Conybeari, Brongniart, loc. cit. p. 107.
Fecopteris AUhausii, Brongniart, loc. cit. p. 107.
Fecopteris elegans, Brongniart, loc. cit. p. 7.

1850. Fecopteris polydactyla, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 177.
Fecopteris Conybeari, Unger, loc. cit. p. 177.

Fecopteris AUhausii, Unger, loc. cit. p. 176.
Alethopteris elegans, Unger, loc. cit. p. 147.
1852. Alethopteris Gopperti, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i.

Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 16, pi. v.
1854. Alethopteris elegans, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 2.

1864. Fecopteris polydactyla, Leckenby, Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xx.
p. 80, pi. xi. figs, la and lb.

1869. Laccopteris Gopperti, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 582, Atlas,

pi. XXX. figs. 5-8.

1870. Fecopteris AUhausii, Trautscbold, Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou,

vol. xiii. p. 28, pi. xix. figs. Zd and e.
^Fecopteris explanata, Trautscbold, loc. cit. p. 32, pi. xix. fig. 7.

1 Annals Bot. vol. v. 1890-91, p. 191, pi. xiv. (First described in Journ.
Linn. Soc. vol. xxiv. 1888, p. 256.)

64 MATONIDITJM.

1871. Matonidium Gopperti, Schenk, Palseontograpbica, vol. xix. p. 219,
pi. xxvii. figs. 6 and 5a; pi. xxviii. figs. 1 and 2 ; pi. xxx. fig. 3.

1874. Matonidium Gopperti, Schimper, loc. cit. vol. iii. p. 507.

1875. Matonidium Gopperti^ Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii. p. 160,

pi. xxvii. fig. 9.
1875. Pecopteris polydactyla, Phillips, Geol. Yorks. p. 207.

? Fecopteris ccespitosa, Phillips, loc. cit. p. 207, fig. 20 ; pi. viii.

fig. 10.
1878. Alethopteris elegans, Dupont, Bull. Ac. Roy. Belg. vol. xlvi. ser. ii.

p. 396.
Ftcopteris Conybeari, Dupont, loc. cit. p. 396.
1881. Matonidium Gopperti, Heer, Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, p. 16,

pi. XV. figs. 1-6.
1883. Matonidium Gopperti, Renault, Cours hot. foss. vol. iii. p. 76.
1888. Matonidium Gopperti, Schulze, Flor. subhercyn. Kreid. p. 11.

Type. Large specimens of sterile and fertile segments. In the
Berlin Collection.

The material in the British Museum is Tery much less perfect
and more scanty than that at the disposal of Schenk ; we may,
therefore, quote his definition verbatim : ^

''Folia petiolata flabellato-pinnata, segmenta brevite petiolata
pinnatifida, in foliis junioribus 5-6, in adultioribus usque quatuor-
decim, ambitu linearia basi et apice attenuata acuminata, adulta
25 centim. longa, lacinise patentissimoB altemse vel suboppositse
integrse, inferiora abbreviataB rotundatae, medium versus sensim
longiores, mediae oblongo-lanceolatae, summae breviores ovatae,
nervi primarii excurrentes, secundarii angulo subrecto egredientes
dichotomi, ramuli simplices, sori biseriales oblongi indusiati,
sporangia in ramulo affixa, annulus obliquus."

Dunker's figures of this species represent sterile portions of leaf
segments ; the differences in size led him to separate them as
distinct species.

I have decided to follow Leckenby's example ^ with regard to
the reference of the specimens from the Yorkshire Oolite to the
present species. A comparison of his figure, pi. ix. fig. \a, and
Schenk's pi. xxvii. fig. 9, Palaeontographica xxiii. leaves little
doubt as to the specific identity of the two plants. Another
Jurassic species, Fecopteris ccespitosa, Phillips, appears to me
inseparable from Matonidium Gopperti; compare especially wood-

* Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 220.

2 Quart. Joum. Geol. Soc. vol. xx. 1864, p. 80.

MATONTDIUM. 65

cut 20, p. 207 of Phillips' " Geology of Yorkshire " and Schenk,
pi. xxviii. Palaeontographica, xix.

Trautschold figures from the Klin Sandstone several pieces of
fronds which undoubtedly come very near the Wealden species.

His figures of Pecopteris Althausn, Dunk., agree with Schenk's
of the North German plant, except in a slight difference in
size.

Possibly JPecopteris explanata^ Traut., should be kept as a
distinct species, but this should be referred to Matomdium; as
regards habit this plant is very close to Velenovsky's fig. 3, pi. ii.
of Microdidyon Dunheri (Schenk).^ Another Eussian species,
Pecopteris pachycarpa, Traut., ^ should also be removed to Schenk's
genus, but probably its straighter and less falcate pinnules justify
a distinct specific name.

Schenk's later figures of the species throw further light on the
character of this fern, and show, amongst other things, that the
shape of the pinnules varies considerably in different specimens.
The same variation in the size and form of the ultimate segments
is shown in Heer's figures of this species from Portugal ; possibly
some of his specimens should be referred to another species, but it
is very difficult to decide what limits to attach to the variation in
size in a single species.

In discussing the position of this species, Schenk notes the
close correspondence of the sori and the individual sporangia with
the CyatheacecR type, and this similarity as regards the fertile
segments is confirmed by the apparently identical habit of the
frond of Matonia pectinata, Br. The sori of the recent species
are more circular in form than in Matonidium Gopperti, where they
appear to be elliptical ; compare e.g. Hooker and Baker, ^ pi. i.
fig. 8, and Schenk, Palaeontographica, xix. pi. xxviii. pi. xxviii.
figs. 2 and 2«.

V. 2218. Woodcut, Fig. 7.

Portions of several pinnae having to some extent the characters
of Cladophlehis Browniana (Dunk.), but the form of the fructifica-
tion and the position of the detached pieces on the matrix show

1 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vii. folge, vol. ii. 1888.

2 Trautschold, loc. cit. p. 30, pi. xix. figs. 6a and b.

3 Synopsis Fihcum, 1868.

P

66

MATONIDIUM.

their identity with Matonidkm. The position of the pinnae shows
a gradual convergence towards a point of attachment.

The elliptical or oval sori are distinctly shown on the lower
surface of the pinnules. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

Pig, 7. — Matonidium Gopperti (Ett.), showing portion of a fertile
pinna {a) (V. 2218).

V. 721. Eachis very prominent ; some of the pinnules with
sori. Ecclesbourne. Dawson Coll.

V. 2208. Yery similar to V. 2218. Pieces of six pinnae. K'ote
the gradual convergence towards the original point of attachment to
the stout rachis. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2211. Shows the convergence to a common point of attach-
ment of imperfectly preserved pinnae. Ecclesbourne. RuJ^ord Coll.

V. 221^. Small fragments of ? fertile pinnae. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

mTONIDirTM.

67

V. 2222. Woodcut, Fig. 8. Portions of several pinnse con-
verging to a large rachis. Far inferior in preservation to Schenk's
figured specimens. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2223. On this specimen is a fragment of a fertile pinna
showing the position of the sori. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

Fig. 8.~Matonidium Gopperti (Ett.) (V. 2222).

V. 2737. The pinnules are larger than in the other specimens,
more like those of Microdictyon in size, but their shape is that of
Matonidium.

Similar examples of size variation have been referred to in the
figures of Schenk, Heer, and Trautschold. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2175, V. 2175^, V. 2178, V. 2205, V. 2384. Pinnules
narrower than usual. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

10,827, 11,618. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

68 PBOTOPTEEIS.

Genus PROTOPTERIS, Presl.

[Sternberg, Flora der Vorwelt, Heft vii, 1838, p. 169.]

This generic name was applied by Presl to a tree-fern stem
which he had previously figured and described as Lepidodendron
punctatum ; the plants which he included under Protopteris are
compared to living members of the CyatJieacece.

In Corda's ''Flora der Vorwelt" eight genera, including Fro-
topteris and Tempskya, are grouped together in the family
Protopteridece.

The genus Protopteris is thus defined by Corda, who consider-
ably extends the earlier definition in Sternberg's work^ : —

" Caudex arboreus, extus nudus vel radiculis adventivis
involutus. Cortex pulvinulis foliorum quaternariis spiraliter
positis oblongis ornata; cicatricibus foliorum medio depressis,
fascicule vasorum centrali simplici hippocrepico continue decoratis,
et infra fasciculis rotundis minutis disjunctis 6 vel 8, et supra
fasciculis aequalibus lateralibus vel nullis circumdatis. Radiculae
adventivae per totam superficiem distributae. Cortex medullosa.

Cylindrus lignosus clausus octangularis, angulis rotundatis.
Liber externus in fasciculis ansaBformibus disjunctis distributus,
internus continuus ligno adnatus. Vagina vasorum tenuis.
Lignum tenue, radiis medullaribus tenuibus vel nullis percursum ;
vasis amplis sexangularibus scalaraeformibus. Medulla centralis
ampla, parenchymatosa."

The most readily recognized characteristic of the genus is the
horse-shoe form of the leaf-trace, as seen on the surface of the
petiole scars. Schenk points out that such a character as this
cannot be regarded as very reliable in the determination of tree-
fern stems ''; but, failing more trustworthy evidence, the pattern
of the leaf-trace is certainly a very convenient feature in the
identification of fossil forms. Carruthers,' in his paper on a
Lower Greensand Protopteris stem, is disposed to agree with
Brongniart and Goppert in attaching considerable importance to
the form of the petiole bundle.

1 Flor. Vorwelt, p. 76.

2 Foss. Pflanz. p. 46.

3 Geol. Mag. 1865, p. 484.

PHOTOPTEKIS. 69

We may briefly define Protopteris as follows : —

Stems of tree-ferns characterized by a central vascular cylinder
consisting of band-form bundles variously arranged. The surface
of the central axis is covered by spirally arranged leaf- scars
separated by, and occasionally embedded in, a mass of ramenta
and adventitious roots. The leaf-trace, as seen on the surface of
the petiole scars, has a horseshoe-like form which presents certain
modifications in the pattern according to the species.

The genus appears to range from the Permian to the Lower
Cretaceous.

Without following the example of Heer, Velenovsky, and Staub
in adopting the generic name of Dicksonia, I have provisionally
placed Protopteris in the Cyatheacea on account of its resemblance
to JDichsonia antarctica, Labill.

1.— Protopteris Witteana, Schenk.

1871. Protopteris Witteana, Schenk, Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 226,

pi. XXX. figs. 6 and 6a.
1874. Protopteris (?) Witteana, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg, vol. ill. p. 526.
1880. Protopteris Witteana, Hosius and Von der Marck, Palseontographica,

vol. xxvi. p. 206,
1883. Protopteris Witteana, Renault, Cours hot. foss. vol. iii. p. 75.
1890. Protopteris Witteana, Staub, Foldt. Kozl, 1890, p. 230 (German text).

This species is thus defined by Schenk ^ : —

" Truncus arboreus erectus, inter pulvinos radicibus adventitiis
vestitus, petiolorum pulvini oblongi spiraliter dispositi, cicatrices
ovales, fasciculus fibre vasalis sinuosus cornubus inflexis."

Type. Portions of structureless stems. Collection of Obergerichts
director Witte, Hanover.

The type specimen, from the Hastings Sands in the neighbour-
hood of Hanover, is described as being considerably compressed,
with a length of 19 cm. and a breadth of 5 cm. The petiole scars
are oval in form, and arranged in a fairly close spiral. The form
of the leaf-trace is distinctly shown in many of the leaf-bases ;
between the latter are several scars marking the points of attach-
ment of adventitious roots. Schenk's specimen shows no structure;

^ PalseontograpMca, vol. xix. p. 226.

70 PBOTOPTEBIS.

the form of the leaf-trace being the chief characteristic on which
the species was founded.

In the British Museum Collection there are three specimens
which I have referred to Schenk's species ; two of these are simply
casts without any minute structure, but the other is in a much
better state of preservation and enables us to amplify the original
diagnosis of the species.

Stem with a central axis consisting of band-form vascular
bundles enclosing a fairly large pith; from these vascular plates
branches pass out to the petioles, and in a surf ace- view of a leaf-
stalk base the leaf-trace is shown to present more or less clearly
the characteristic horse-shoe pattern.

The oval petiole scars are arranged fairly closely ; towards the
periphery of each is a single vascular bundle of the horse-shoe
form, but differing from that of P. punctata in the absence of the
distinct constriction which occurs in each limb of the leaf-trace ;
the free upper ends of the leaf-trace are distinctly curved inwards.
Sections of adventitious roots occur in the lower part of the petiole
scars. Between the leaf-bases there is a mass of filamentous tissue,
traversed here and there by irregularly disposed roots.

Before describing in detail the specimens of Frotopteris Witteana
in the National Collection, it should be pointed out that they
appear to differ in no very important characters from the widely-
spread P. punctata. Possibly the Wealden specimens at present
referred to the species instituted by Schenk, may eventually find
their proper place under P. punctata ; but at present we may
regard the slight difference in the pattern of the leaf-trace bundles
of the two forms as sufficient reason for the retention of Schenk's
Wealden species.

In Protopteris punctata, Sternb., we have one of the best known
fossil tree-ferns. The species was first instituted by Fresl for a
plant previously figured and described by Sternberg as Lepido-
dendron punctatum} Sternberg's specimen was for some time
referred to as having been obtained from Bohemian rocks of
Carboniferous age ; another example of the same plant from
Greenland was regarded by Heer, in the third volume of the
"Flora fossilis Arctica," as indicative of Carboniferous rocks. It
was, however, shown by Krejci and Feistmantel that the coal-

1 Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt, Heft i. p. 20.

PaOTOPTERIS. 7t

bearing strata of Bohemia, from which Sternberg's specimen was
obtained, were of Cenomanian age, and this led Heer to correct his
previous statement as to the age of the Disco Island plant beds.^

It is to Cotta^ that we are indebted for the earliest information
as to the minute structure of the genus Protopteris. In 1836 he
described in detail the anatomy of a tree-fern stem, afterwards
called P. Cotteana, which was found in a boulder in Saxony, but
considered to have originally come from Bohemia ; this plant
agrees very closely with the common form P. punctata. The
generic name Cauhpterisy Lindley and Hutton, is substituted for
Protopteris in Gcippert's ''Eossilen Farrnkrauter." ^ Carruthers*
also prefers Lindley and Hutton's genus as being older than Presl's
Protopteris, and more suitable for such tree-fern stems. In Corda's
classic work ^ Sternberg's specimen is further described, and com-
pared to the CyatheacecR ; the original name, P. punctata, being
replaced by that of P. Sternhergii. The name Protopteris was
originally given to a tree-fern stem possessing a well-defined
character in the form of its leaf -trace bundle ; on the other hand
the generic term Caulopteris was applied to a specimen on which
no useful or precise definition could be founded.* If we do not
necessarily connect the name of Protopteris with botanical affinity,
it is a useful term to retain as pointing to a form of fern stem
different to that for which Lindley and Hutton's genus is retained.

In 1865 Carruthers' published a description of a cylindrical
sandstone cast of Protopteris punctata from the Upper Greensand of
Dorsetshire ; the form of the leaf -trace bundles is clearly shown in
the original ^ of Carruthers' figure, and there can be no doubt of its
identity with Sternberg's Bohemian type. Unfortunately the
English specimen is entirely without internal structure.

The substitution of Bichsonia for Protopteris by certain writers,
such as Heer, Yelenovsky, and Staub, has already been referred to;
the same generic name has also been used by Eenault for a fossil
fern-stem of Cretaceous age from the Ardennes.^

1 Flor. foss. Arct. vol. vi. p. 24. 2 j^, Jahrb. 1836, p. 30, pi. i.

3 p. 449. * Geol. Mag. 1865, p. 487. ^ Flor. Vorwelt, p. 77.

^ Lindley and Hutton, Foss. Flora, vol. i. pi. xlii.

' Log. cit. p. 484, pi, xiii.

® Specimen in the British Museum, registered number 39002. The plate
illustrating Carruthers' paper hardly does justice to this remarkably fine specimen.

^ Cours hot. foss. vol. iii. p. 74.

72 PBOTOPTERIS.

The following list of synonyms of Protopteris punctata shows, to
Bome extent, the distribution of that characteristic type of tree-fern
in Lower Cretaceous times : how far we may consider this species
identical with, or very nearly allied to, the "Wealden form is
difficult to determine.

Protopteris punctata, Sternb.

1820. Lepidodendron punctatum, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt, Heft i. p. 20,

pi. vi. pt. viii. fig. 2.
1822. Filicites punctatus, Martius, Denkschr. k. Baier. bot. Ges. vol. ii.

Abth. i. p. 130.
1825. Lepidodendron punctatum, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt, Heft iv. p. xii.
1828. Sigillaria punctata, Brongniart, Prodrome, p. 64.
1828. Sigillaria punctata, Brongniart, Hist. veg. foss. p. 421, pi. cxli.

1835, Lepidodendron punctatum, Cotta, N. Jabrb. 1835, p. 326.

1836. Caulopteris punctata, Goppert, Nova Acta Ac. Caes. Leop.-Car. vol.

xvii. (Suppl.), p. 449.
1838. Frotopteris punctata, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt, Heft vii. p. 170,

pi. Ixv. figs. 1-3.
1845. Protopteris Sternbergii, Corda, Flor. Vorwelt, p. 77, pi. xlviii.
1845. Frotopteris punctata, linger, Syn. plant, foss. p. 107.
1848. Frotopteris punctata. Brown, Index Nomencl. p. 1047.
1850. Frotopteris Sternbergii, linger. Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 194.

1865. Caulopteris punctata, Carruthers, Geol. Mag. p. 484, pi. xiii.

1866. Frotopteris Debegi, Schliiter, Sitz. niederrbein. Ges. Bonn. p. 68.
1866. Caulopteris punctata, Reuger, Ziva, p. 126.

1869. Frotopteris Sternbergii, Schiraper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 706,

Atlas, pi. lii. fig. 1.

1870. Frotopteris Sternbergii, Boemer, Geol. Oberschles. p. 300.

1872. Frotopteris Sternbergii, Feistmantel, Abb. k. bobm. Ges. "Wiss. vi.

Folg. vol. V. p. 26, pi. ii. fig. 5.
1875. Frotopteris punctata, Geinitz, Palaeontograpbica, vol. xx. p. 304.
1875. Frotopteris punctata, Heer, Fl. foss. Arct. vol. iii. p. 8, pi. v. figs.

1-2 ; pi. vi.
1880. Frotopteris punctata, Hosius and Von der Marck, Palaeontograpbica,

vol. xxvi. p. 205, pi. xliii. figs. 185-186.
1882. Dicksonia [Frotopteris) punctata, Heer, Fl. foss. Arct. vol. vi. p. 24,

pi. xlvii.

1882. Frotopteris punctata, Scbmalhausen, Scbrift. Kiew. nat. Ges. vol. vi.

pt. ii. p. 216, pi. viii.

1883. Frotopteris Sternbergii, Renault, Cours bot. foss. vol. iii. p. 75.
1888. Dicksonia punctata, Velenovsky, Abb. k. bobm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg*

vol. ii. p. 20, pi. V. figs. 2-4.
1890. Dicksonia punctata, Staub, Foldt. Kozl. vol. xx. p. 227.

PEOTOPTEEIS. 73

StenzeP has referred to several Protopteria species in his
important communication on Rhizodendron OppoUense, Goppert ;
he points out that P. Cottai should be regarded as a synonym of
P. Cotteana, Presl, and refers the specimen described in 1865 by
Goppert ^ as P. Sternhergii to a new species, P. fihro&a^ Stenz.

Protopteris Witteana, Schenk.
PL XI.

The most important specimen of Protopteris Witteana from a
botanical point of view is represented in PL XI. ; it is in all
probability from the English Wealden rocks, but unfortunately the
registered number is partly illegible, and cannot be identified with
any entry in the MSS. Catalogue of the Geological Collections.

This piece of stem has probably been slightly compressed, and
the external surface suggests considerable rolling ; it tapers slightly
towards both of the bluntly rounded ends. The internal structure
is partially preserved, apparently in carbonate of lime, but the
details are very imperfectly shown in microscopic sections. On
the smooth water-worn surface the petiole bases are seen to be
broadly oval in form, and slightly projecting above the general
level of the stem ; in each leaf-scar the horse-shoe vascular bundle
is more or less clearly marked. Fig. 3, PL XI.^ shows one of the
more perfect leaf-trace bundles at ^, and external to this at 8 the
peripheral sclerenchymatous tissue of the petiole ; such a form
agrees more closely with that of Protopteris Witteana as figured
by Schenk, than with the more constricted form of P. punctata.
In the immediate neighbourhood of the leaf-trace there are a few
small circular markings, and occasionally these show two con-
centric circles, as at r.r. in Fig. 3 ; the inner no doubt representing
the vascular axis, and the outer the peripheral limits of an
adventitious root. In the same Figure at r'.r'. there are oblique
longitudinal sections of adventitious roots. In some of the leaf-
trace bundles it is possible to see clearly the peripheral stereome
tissue of the petiole base, which weathering agencies have
occasionally left in relief immediately above the upper end of
the vascular strand; e.g. at «, Fig. 1.

There is a very striking resemblance between the more perfectly

1 Jahres-Ber. Schles. Ges. Kultur, 1886.

2 N. Jahrb. 1865, p. 395.

* This drawing is made from the ground-down surface of the specimen.

74- PEOTOPTEEIS.

preserved petiole bases of P. Witteana and those of Dicksoma
antarctic a.

Between the prominent petiole scars the matrix of the fossil is
somewhat lighter in colour, as at a.a., Figs. 1-3; this appears to
consist of elongated parenchymatous cells, which may possibly
have originally existed as multicellular filaments, but have
been more or less welded together in the process of mineralization.
Here and there in this inter-petiolar tissue traces of adventitious
roots occur, as e.^. at r and r' in Figs. 1-3.

In Dichsonia antarctica the bases of the petioles are separated by
a woolly mass of brown threads, traversed by a few adventitious
roots. If these threads {ramenta) be examined microscopically
they are found to be made up of long and narrow parenchymatous
elements, very similar in shape to those which occur between the
petiole bases in the fossil stem.

In PI. XI. Fig. 2 a transverse section of the fossil stem is repre-
sented natural size ; the curved band-form vascular plates are
clearly shown at t, and at p portions of the conducting tissue are
curving outwards as leaf-traces ; an impression of a root section is
seen at r, and at a are the masses of tissue separating the individual
petioles.

A small piece of the vascular tissue of the stem is shown in
Fig. 4 ; the xylem, x, is made up of polygonal tracheides of the
scalariform type, and associated with these there are indications
of parenchymatous cells ; the whole xylem tissue being apparently
very similar in structure to that in the stem of Bicksonia antarctica.

The dark lines, h.h, on either side of the xylem no doubt mark
the limits of the phloem, but this more delicate tissue has not been
preserved.

In a few places there are traces of fairly large brown-walled
elements external to the limits of the phloem.

The xylem of this specimen, as regards the arrangement of
the vascular bands and their histological structure, is very
similar to that of Protopteris Cottai as figured by Corda.^

V. 2181. An imperfectly preserved Sandstone cast. Leaf-scars
indistinctly shown. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

1 Flor. Vorwelt. pi. xlix.

There is a section of P. Cottai in the Botanical Department Collection (British
Museum) cut from the specimen figured by Corda.

KUFFOKDIA. 75

V. 2302. A very imperfect cast, 23 cm. long ; the petiole bases
badly defined. A number of small holes occur on the surface of
the sandstone, which no doubt mark the position of adventitious
roots. The leaf-trace appears to correspond in shape to that of
P. Witteana as represented in Schenk's figure, Palaeontographica,
vol. xix. pi. XXX. Ecclesbourne. Rufford ColL

Family ? SCHIZACE^.

Sporangia usually on modified leaf-segments ; sessile or shortly
stalked, with a complete apical annulus and longitudinal dehiscence.

Genus BUFFORDIA, gen. nov.

In instituting this new generic name I have followed the example
recently set by Raciborski in the case of Mesozoic ferns, and by
Stur, Zeiller, Kidston and others in dealing with ferns of Palaeozoic
age. Raciborski proposes the name Klukia ^ for the '' oldest known
of the Schizacece,'" and takes as the type of the genus Pecopteris
exi'lis, Phill., of which fertile pinnules have been described by
Phillips, Lindley and Hutton, and Bunbury.

In the present instance the new term is proposed instead of the
older provisional genus Sphennpteris, on the ground that the
Museum Collection has afforded material which gives us a much
further insight into the true botanical affinity of Dunker's species,
S. Gopperti. The fertile pinnae, described in detail under the
species Ruffordia Gopperti, suggest a connection with Anemia^ and
the character of the sterile fronds is strongly confirmatory. On
the other hand no details can be made out in the sporangia, which
would afford the most trustworthy kind of evidence in favour of
or against a reference to the Schi%acem\ to refer the "Wealden
fern to Anemia^ or to Dawson's genus AneimiteSy would be a step
in advance of the facts at our disposal. Dawson suggested the
sub-genus Aneimites for a Devonian fern of the Cyclopteris type,

' Bot. Jahrb. vol. xiii. p. 1.

76 BUFFOBDIA.

which showed fertile pinnae but no sporangial structure ; he
compared the sterile pinnules to those of Anemia adiantifolia,
Sw., from Cuba.^ Schimper'^ does not admit the correctness of
Dawson's determination ; and, indeed, an inspection of the figures
of Cyclopteris {Aneimites) Acadica, Dawson, does not lead one
to accept the specimens as evidence for the existence of the
Schizacea in pre-Carboniferous times.

The plants included under Ruffordia are all referred to one
species, some of the specimens being placed in a variety to denote
a marked difference in size of the ultimate segments of the sterile
fronds.

The genus is characterized by a distinct contrast between barren
and fertile pinnae, by the resemblance of the pinnules to those of
Anemia adiantifolia, Sw., and by the correspondence in habit of
sterile and fertile pinnae to that species.

Ruffordia is placed in the ^cMzacece, but, in the absence of very
satisfactory proof, with the addition of a query expressive of the
imperfect evidence.

The adoption of this name is to place on record the enthusiasm
and careful work of Mr. B-ufford, to whose labours we are indebted
for the material on which the genus has been founded.

1.— Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.).

1833. Sphenopteris Fhillipsii, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 239, fig. 2.
1844. Cheilanthites Gopperti, Dunker, Progr. p. 6.

1846. Sphempteris Gopperti, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 4, pi. i. fig. 6,
pi. ix. figs. 1-3.

Sphempteris Sartleheni, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 4, pi. ix. fig. 9.

Sphenopteris longifolia, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 4, pi. viii. fig. 6.

1848. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Bronn, Index pal. nomencl. vol. ii. p. 1168.
Sphenopteris Hartleheni, Bronn, ibid. p. 1168.

1849. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1860. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Unger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 109.

1851. Sphenopteris adiantifrons, Ettingshausen, Jahrb. k.-k. geol. Reichs.

Jahrg. ii. No. 2, p. 156.

1852. Sphenopteris Jugleri, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Reicbs. Band i.

Abth. iii. No. 2, pi. iv. fig. 5.

1 Quart. Joum. Geol. Soc. vol. xxii. 1866, p. 153.
' Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii. p. 489.

EUFFORDIA. 77

1854. Sphenopteris PhilUpsii, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 21.
1864. ? Sphenopteris Jugleri, Leckenby, Quart. Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xx.
p. 79.

1869. Sphenopteris [Davalt) Sartlebeni, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol, i.

p. 394, pi. XXX. figs. 2 and 3.
Sphenopteris {Bavall) Jugleri, Schimper, loc. cit. p. 394.
Sphenopteris {Bavall) longifolia, Schimper, loc. cit. p. 394.

1870. Sphenopteris Auerbachi, Trautschold, Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou,

vol. xiii. p. 19, pi. xviii. fig. 5.
1871- Sphenopteris Gopperti, Schenk (in part), Palseontographica, vol. xix.

p. 209, pi. XXV. figs. 2-5.1
1875. ? Sphenopteris Juffleri, Phillips, Geol. Yorks. edit. iii. p. 218.
1878. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Dupont, Bull. Ac. R. Belg. ser. ii. vol. xlvi.

p. 396.
1881. Sphenopteris valdensis, Heer (in part), Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal,

4to. 1881, p. 14, pi. XV. fig. 11 [v. Same species under On^/-

chiopsis Mantelli (Brong.)].
1890. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Nathorst, Denkschr. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat.

CI. vol. Ivii. p. 43, pi. vi. figs. 2 and 3.
1890. Sphenopteris, sp., Yokoyama, Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. p. 34,

pi. xiv. figs. 13 and 13a.

Tt/pe. A small, imperfectly preserved pinna. Bunker's type
specimen agrees best with those English specimens which have
ultimate segments of median size, in length and breadth. The
details of venation are not shown in the figure. The following
definition is given by the author of the species^: —

'* Sphenopteris fronde tripinnata, apicem versus bipinnata,
pinnis alternis distantibus vel plus minus approximatis, pinnulis
alternis clavatis petiolatis apice laciniatis vel sub-emarginatis,
laciniis obovatis, cuneatis, nervis obsoletis, rhacibus tenerrimis
canaliculatis."

The Kufford Collection has furnished us with an abundant
supply of material, which enables us to extend the definition of
the species, and evidence is afforded by some of the specimens
of fertile fronds as to the probable botanical affinity of this
"Wealden fern.

Frond tripinnate-quadripianate, deltoid or rhomboidal, rachis
frequently flexuous, pinnae alternate, deltoid to ovate-lanceolate;
pinnules delicate, decurrent on the rachis, ultimate segments linear
acuminate or ovate-cuneate. Venation of the type Ccmopteridis and

1 PI. XXX. figs. 2 and 2a regarded as Onychiopsis elongata {Gei/l.).

2 Wealdenbildung, p. 4.

79 ETJFFORDIA.

Sphenopteridis. Pructification in the form of scattered sporangia
on fertile fronds or pinnae, of which the leaf lamina is considerably
reduced.

Sphenopteris Phillipsii, Mant., may probably be included in the
list of synonyms, although the fragment figured under this name
is so small that its real nature must remain uncertain. It agrees
very closely with some of the more broadly lobed forms of the
present species.

There is no doubt as to the specific identity of S. Hartleheni^
Dunk., and S. longifolia^ Dunk., with the present species, as
Schenk has already pointed out.

Jeanpaulia nervosa, Dunk.,^ is included by Heer^ as a synonym
of S. valdensis, Hr., but a comparison of the figures lends little
or no support to Heer's view. Dunker's «/". Brauniana is much
more like some of the English specimens of Ruffordia Gopperti
than any other forms of that genus.

On comparing Ettingshau sen's figure of Sphenopteris Jugleri
with those of S. Gopperti given by Dunker and Schenk, certain
differences are at once apparent, but the inclusion by the latter
author of Ettingshausen's species in that of Dunker is fully
confirmed by the specimens in the Museum Collection. The
specimen from the "Lower Shale" (Yorkshire Oolite) referred
by Leckenby to S. Jugleri shows a very distinct resemblance to the
Wealden fern, and may possibly be rightly included in that species.

An examination of the type specimen in the Woodwardian
Museum, Cambridge, suggests a strong likeness to PL V. Pigs. 2
and 3 of Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.) ; considering the small size
and imperfect nature of Leckenby's specimen, it is better to avoid
an unqualified assent to its association with the present species.

Schimper includes a species, Sphenopteris {Trichom.) Gopperti,
Ettingsh.,^ under the heading Sphenopteris -Trichomanides, but
this was instituted by Ettingshausen, in 1865, under the name
Trichoma?iites Gopperti^ for the reception of a plant from the
Dachschiefer of Moravia and Silesia. Sphenopteris Gopperti, Dunk.,
is included by Schimper as a synonym of S. Hartleheni,

1 "Wealdenbildung, p. 12, pi. v. fig. 3.

2 Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 14.

3 Trait, pal. v^g. vol. i. p. 412.

* Sitz. k. Ak. Wiss. Wien. math.-nat. CI. vol. li. Abth. i. 1865, p. 205.

EtJFFOEDIA. 79

The small piece figure^l by Trautsohold as Sphenopteris Auerlachi,
Traut., from the Klin Sandstone seems to be identical with some
forms of Ruffordia Gopperti, as first suggested by Schenk.^ Schenk
compares Ruffordia Gopperti with. Sphenopteris Stenstrupi, Hr., and
8. Hinslopi, Old. ; his figures represent imperfect pieces of pinnae.

There is no mention of this species by Fontaine in his " Potomac
Flora ; " one of his species, S. acrodentata,^ founded on a very
small fragment, seems to be almost identical with the broadest
forms of our English species, and especially with such as I propose
to consider as Ruffordia G&pperti, var. latifolia. From the small
piece figured by Fontaine it is impossible to form any idea of the
habit of the fern ; the character of the pinna represented by him
in fig. 4, pi. xxxiv. seems to be very much the same as that of
Thyrsopteris hrevipennis, Font., represented in the same plate,
figs. 3 and 3a ; in the former the pinnules are dentate, in the
latter entire.

In addition to the specimens figured by iJ^athorst from Japan
as S. Gopperti, those fragments described and figured by Yoko-
yama as Thyrsopteris Kagemis, Yok.,^ should be compared with the
present species ; there is no adequate reason for referring them to
the genus Thyrsopteris.

Eepeated examinations and comparisons of a large number of
specimens in the Museum Collection, have led me to regard Ruffordia
Gopperti as a species of which the vegetative parts are extremely
variable, and to a much greater extent than the figures hitherto
published would lead us to expect. The task of determining, or
attempting to determine, what limits to assign to this species has
been attended with considerable difficulty, and the conclusion
arrived at is one which will doubtless suggest that two or more
specifically distinct forms have been included under one name.
My first inspection of the material favoured the view of two or
three species or, at any rate, varieties ; but a more detailed
examination forced me to the conclusion that I was dealing with
a number of specimens, which could be arranged in a regular and
gradually varying series, with a marked difi'erence in form
between the extreme types.

* Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 261.

3 Potomac Flora, p. 90, pi. xxxiv. fig. 4.

3 Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol, iii. 1890, p. 23, pi. i. figs. 6 and

80 BTTTFOBDIA.

Among recent ferns it is well known what striking variations
occur in the vegetative structures within the limits of a single
species. Asplenium may be mentioned as one genus which shows
this with sufficient clearness.

In PI. IV. is reproduced one of the most perfect specimens of
R. Gopperti. This is an excellent example of one end of the
series, and represents the form of frond which is characterized by-
fine and narrow ultimate segments.

In PI. Y. Figs. 1-5 we have other specimens of what I regard
as the same species. On comparing the figures of PI. V. with
those of PL lY. and also PI. YI. there are sufficiently obvious
differences ; these, however, consist mainly, if not entirely, in the
relative size of the ultimate segments of the pinnae, the general
habit being practically identical in the two extreme forms. When
a careful survey is taken of a large number of specimens, inter-
mediate forms arrange themselves between the narrow and broad-
leaved types ; a few such forms are shown in PL Y. In a case
such as this, where we have no hiatus definite enough to admit of
a specific diff'erence, and where we have equally, if not more,
striking instances of disparity in the size of leaf divisions among
recent ferns, the most reasonable course to follow appears to be
that of regarding the several forms as examples of one and the
same species. It is but rarely that one district supplies such
numerous and well-preserved samples of a local flora as that from
which the British Museum material was obtained ; and I cannot
but think, that to create a number of ill-defined species, on such
minor differences as are discoverable in this rich collection, would
be to follow a course to which the palseobotanist is too often
impelled by the scanty and imperfect data at his disposal.

So far as the barren fronds or pinnae are concerned there is a
striking resemblance as regards habit to Asplenium fragrans,
Sw. The variable size and shape of the ultimate segments,
which form so marked a feature in the fossil, are still more
striking in the recent fern. Under A. fragrans Hooker and
Baker include a variety ^. A. fceniculaceum, H. and B., which
has ** narrowly linear" ultimate segments, but the remark is
added that ''the two varieties seem to be quite connected by
gradual and intermediate gradations."^

^ Synopsis Filicum, p. 216.

ET7FF0EDIA. 81

In the present instance we are not dependent on tlie uncertain
guidance of sterile structures, but are in a position to make use
of the valuable evidence of fertile pinnae. In PI. III. Fig. 5
we have an example of R. Gopperti which differs from those
previously referred to in its smaller size ; in Pig. 6 there is the
same form, but with the two lowest pinnae in the fertile condition.
In other specimens the whole frond, or pinna, bears sporangia, and
agrees exactly with the two basal pinnae shown in Fig. 6. A
close inspection of the fertile branches reveals the existence of
sporangia, but without any sign of detailed structure.

Such characters as these are met with in the genus Anemia,
and the resemblance is such that I am disposed to regard Ruffordia
Gopperti as nearly allied to this member of the Schizacece. There
is not only, an unmistakable likeness between the fertile branches
of Anemia adiantifolia, Sw., and those of the Wealden plant, but
an equally strong correspondence in the barren branches and in
the habit of the complete frond. This affords another example
of the danger of relying merely on the close parallelism in the
form of sterile fronds between fossil and recent ferns. Such a
parallelism has been pointed out as regards Asplenium fragrans,
Sw., and the present species, but on extending the comparison
to the fertile portions of the frond the similarity of the purely
vegetative parts is shown to be entirely misleading where botanical
affinity is concerned.

If my determinations be approximately correct, we have in
Ruffordia Gopperti an example of a fern much more perfectly
preserved than is usual among the fossil representatives of the
Filices. In addition to the series of sterile vegetative organs we
have good samples of fertile pinnae, and, in association with these
leaf structures, portions of what I regard as rhizomes with the
lower parts of petioles still attached : such rhizome fragments
are shown in PL X. Figs. 1 and 2.

Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.).

V. 2157. PL IV.

These two fronds, or pinnae, represent one end of the series
of variable forms ; the ultimate linear-acuminate segments are
uninerved. The habit is compact, and the pinnae have a more or less
deltoid form, with the details distinctly marked as light brown im-
pressions on a homogeneous ironstone. Ecclesbourne. Ruffurd Coll.

82 EUFFORDIA.

V. 2166. PL Y. Pig. 1.

Corresponds closely with V. 2157, but differs in the greater size
of the frond, of which this is a fragment, and in the fact that the
ultimate segments are slightly broader. Closely associated with
the fragments on this piece of rock are portions of what may
possibly be the rhizome of the same species. Cf. PI. IV. (V. 2157)
and PI. V. Fig. 2i (V. 2156). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll

V. 2156. PI. Y. Fig. 3.

In Fig. 3a we have an exceedingly graceful ? frond of roughly
pentagonal form and compact habit. It represents a further
increase in the breadth of the ultimate segments, but is still
entirely in accord with the general character of the species.

Fig. 3b shows part of a large frond with a well-marked flexuous
rachis. Cf. PL Y. Fig. 2 (V. 2155^). Ecclesbourne. Eufford Coll.

V. 2155a. PL Y. Fig. 2.

Yery similar as regards breadth of segments to V. 2157, PL lY.
The rachis is distinctly flexuous, and the general habit of this
and other specimens is strikingly similar to that of Anemia
adiayitifolia, Sw.

V. 21553. The reverse piece of V. 2155^. Ecclesbourne.

Rugord Coll.

V. 2243. PL Y. Fig. 4.

A slight increase is apparent in the breadth of the segments, and
some of them appear to be obtusely rounded at the apex rather
than acute. In each lobe of the pinnsB are several palmately-
placed veins. The first glance at this specimen and Fig. 2 of
the same plate (V. 2155«) suggests two specific forms, but on
close inspection of the two specimens a difference in breadth of
the ultimate divisions appears to be the only real distinction,
and, in view of the correspondence in habit, this alone is hardly
of sufficient importance to necessitate a separate species. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2731. PL III. Fig. 5.

This affords a good example of a small and compact type of
? frond, which differs only in size from the larger and commoner
specimens. On the same piece of rock is a piece of rhizome,
PL X. Fig. 1. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

HUFFOEDIA. 88

V. 2295. PI. III. Fig 6.

This specimen differs from V. 2731 in having the lower ? pinnae
in the fertile condition. The leaf lamina is considerably reduced,
and the individual sporangia may be made out here and there, but
without affording any reliable information as to the character of the
sporangial walls. Possibly expression should be given to the
smaller size of this and the preceding specimen by the institution
of a new species or variety, but I am inclined to attach great
importance to the fact that such a specimen as V. 2157, PI. lY.
shows the same habit and essential features as these smaller and
more delicate forms. There is a distinct resemblance between this
specimen and a fertile pinna figured by Fee ^ as Aneimicehotrys
aspera from Brazil. Cf. PL V. Fig. 3a (V. 2156). Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2160. PI. Y. Fig. 5.

This specimen shows very clearly the characters of a fertile
pinna. The general habit is much the same as that of PI. Y.
Fig. 3a (V. 2156) and other specimens, but in this case, instead
of the sharp margins of the pinnules characteristic of the sterile
pinnse, we find a certain ragged appearance in the ultimate
segments, and irregular outlines to the blunt lobes. The surface
of the pinnules is marked by numerous round projections, which
are undoubtedly sporangia ; these cover almost the whole surface
of the ultimate segments, and, as far as it is possible to decide,
closely agree in their manner of occurrence with those of Anemia.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2812. PL X. Fig. 2.

This specimen I regard as part of a rhizome of Ruffordia
Gopperti; the surface has a rough appearance suggestive of
scaly hairs, and to parts of it are attached the lower portions
of petioles. On the same rock occur fragments of pinnae of this
species. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2731. PL X. Fig. 1.

This larger piece of rhizome has already been mentioned in the
description of PL III. Fig. 5, which occurs in the same piece of
ironstone. The surface has the same characteristic roughness

^ Crypt. Vase. Br.esil, pi. kxviii.

84 EUFFOEDIA.

shown in V. 2812, and here, too, portions of petioles occur attached
to the main axis ; the piece of frond represented in the figure cannot
he traced to the rhizome, hut the petiole agrees exactly with such
hasal portions as are actually attached; there can, therefore, be
little or no doubt as to the connection between the rhizome and
this frond fragment. The thin and flexuous petioles agree
closely with those seen in PI. V. Fig. 3b (V. 2156) and other
specimens. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 1069. Breadth of the segments much the same as in PI. Y.
Fig. 3. Kear Hastings. Presented hy P. Bufford, Esq,^ 1885.

V. 2152. Very similar to V. 1069, but less complete. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 21b6c and V. 2155^. There is a very close agreement between
these two fragments and Bunker's figures of Sphenopteris Gopperti
in his Wealdenbildung, PL IX. Fig. 1. Cf. also PL Y. Fig. 3a
(V. 2156).

V. 2155^. A badly preserved specimen. Cf. PL Y. Fig. 3b.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2157«. Of the same type as PL Y. Fig. 3a (V. 2156), but
somewhat smaller, Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2167. Practically identical with V. 2351. In this specimen
and several others there are closely associated fragments of pinnae,
of which the ultimate segments show a marked variation in size ;
also portions of fertile fronds. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2192. One fertile pinna and a portion of a second. The
individual sporangia are seen on some of the pinnules. This
specimen agrees in all points with PL III. Fig. 6 (V. 2295) and
PL III. Fig. 5 (V. 2731). Cf. also PL Y. Fig. 3a (V. 2156) and
PL Y. Fig. 5 (V. 2160). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2228. Badly preserved fragments of pinnae with narrow
ultimate segments. Cf V. 2157, PL lY. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2341. The same as V. 2731. On the same rock is a fragment
of Acrostichites Ruffordi, sp. nov. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

BUFFOEDIA. 85

V. 2351. Agrees with V. 2354, except in the slightly greater
breadth of the ultimate divisions. Yenation distinct. Associated
with this fragment are others of a much more narrowly segmented
form; this juxtaposition on the same rock-surface of pieces of
fronds showing considerable difference in the breadth of the
pinnules is of common occurrence. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

Y. 2354. Part of a larger frond, with the pinnae somewhat
farther apart than in most cases ; the segments are of median
breadth and agree closely with the pinnules of other specimens
referred to this species. This specimen appears to show the
quadripinnate character of the frond.

V. 2354^. Rachis showing sub-opposite and alternate pinnae ;
pinnules short and of medium breadth ; a more open habit than in
most specimens. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

The following specimens illustrate various forms of Raffordia
Gopperti (Dunk.), but show no characters other than those to
which reference has already been made in the descriptions of more
perfect examples.

V. 2151, V. 2152, V. 2153 (several specimens), V. 2156a. Cf.
PI. V. Pig. 3b (V. 2156), also PI. Y. Pig. 4 (V. 2243), V. 2166a,
V. 2294. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2877. Fragments of the coarser and finer forms of pinnae.
Kear Hastings. Beckles Coll.

2.— Ruffordia Gopperti, var. latifolia.

As a convenient method of expressing the difference between the
extreme forms of this species, characterized by the greater breadth
of the ultimate segments, and those with narrowly linear segments,
such as the specimen figured in PI. lY. (V. 2157), I have decided
to designate the more broadly-lobed forms by the terra latifolia.

V. 2333. PI. YI. Pigs. 1 and \a.

The portion of the frond figured may possibly be a basal pinna.
The close resemblance between such specimens as this and t^phenO'

86 EtTFFOEDIA.

pteris acrodentata^ Font.,^ suggested a reference of the English
forms to this Potomac species, but, on carefully looking through
the large series of specimens in the National Collections, it is
impossible to come to a satisfactory conclusion as to where the line
of demarcation should be drawn expressive of specific differences.
There is undoubtedly a very marked difference between PL VI.
Fig. 1 and the specimen represented in PI. IV., but this is rather a
divergence suggestive of two varieties than one to be regarded as
of specific value. If we had only these two extreme forms to deal
■with, there would be no hesitation in speaking of them as distinct
species, but, as already pointed out, we have a large number of
intermediate forms which, in my opinion, bridge over the apparent
gap between the ends of the series.

The chief differences between such specimens as PI. VI. Fig. 1
and the forms of Ruffordia Gopperti previously described, consist
in the greater breadth of the ultimate segments and the more open
character of the pinnge. The venation of the pinnules is very
distinctly shown in the figured specimen, PL VI. Fig. 1«; the veins
are flabellately disposed and repeatedly forked ; the margin of the
pinnules are, for the most part, distinctly dentate. Cf. Fontaine's
figure of S. acrodentata, pi. xxxiv. figs. 4 and 4a ; also Mantell's
figure of S. Fhillipsii}

On the same piece of ironstone, associated with the sterile
portions of a frond, occur fragments of small fertile fronds ; also
several pieces of fronds with the rachis tripinnately branched and
showing very little leaf lamina, the serrate divisions of the ultimate
branches recalling, to some extent, Omjchiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).
Possibly these different fragments belong to the same plant, but of
this there is no real evidence. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2355. The rachis and venation of the pinnules distinctly
shown. Very similar to V. 2333, but the segments somewhat
narrower. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2158, V. 2327, V. 2357, V. 2357flr. These specimens are
regarded as fragments of the same variety. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

* Potomac Flora, p. 90, pi. xxxiv. fig. 4.
» Geol. S.E. England, p. 239, fig. 2.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 87

B. Genera which afford no trustworthy evidence as to
their affinities with existing families.

Genus CLADOPHLEBIS, Brongniart.
[Tableau, 1849, p. 25.]

Brongniart, in his " Histoire des vegetaux fossiles," * arranged
the numerous species of his genus Pecopteris in several groups,
and one of these he called Neuropterides. In a later work^ this
group is reconsidered, with the result that the new generic term
CladophleUs is substituted for those species of Pecopteris included
in the Neuropterides. He regards Cladophlehis as a transitional
form between Pecopteris and Neuropteris, and points out its charac-
teristics without giving any definite diagnosis.

Fontaine, in his "Potomac Flora," retains Brongniart's genus,
and speaks of the convenience of referring certain sterile fronds
to such a genus where venation is the guiding character ; ' he
refers to Saporta as the first to put into a concise definition the
distinguishing features of Cladophlehis. The following diagnosis is
from Saporta's important work on the Jurassic plants of France*: —

'* Frons pinnatim divisa, pinnulae ab alterutra discretae vel vix
inter se cohaerentes rachi tota basi adnatae aut plus minusve con-
tractaB subque auriculatae integrae rariusve dentatae ; nervuli e
nervo medio orti apicem versus attenuati vel evanidi primum
obliqui, dein curvati furcatoque divisi."

As Saporta remarks, this genus is founded on venation characters
and is, therefore, artificial ; but like other similarly constituted
genera it is useful for the reception of those ferns the botanical
affinities of which are at present unknown. This author includes
under Cladophlehis the widely distributed Pecopteris Whithyensisy
Brong., Asplenites Posserti, Schenk, etc.

Schimper,^ in 1874, gave a more exhaustive definition of the
same genus, and drew attention to the fact that Saporta's de-

1 p. 320.

' Tableaux, p. 25.

3 p. 67.

Pal. Fran9, ser. ii. vol. i. 1873, p. 298.
* Trait, pal. v^g. vol. iii. p. 513.

88 CLADOPHLEBIS.

scription agrees with tliat previously given by himself of the group
of Jurassic ferns of the type Alethopteris Whithyensis. Fontaine
slightly modifies Schimper's definition, and suggests that with the
addition of " midnerve strong at base, and towards the summit
dissolving into branches," we have a well-defined group of ferns
** strongly characteristic of the Jurassic, and which is fully as much
entitled to be called a genus as is Sphenopteris or Pecopteris.''^^

In his more recent contributions to the French Jurassic flora,
Saporta continues to make use of Cladophlehis as a genus, and
adds that the Carboniferous species originally included by Brong-
niart in his group Pecopteris Neuropteridis, for which the term
Cladophlehis was subsequently proposed, have nothing in common
with the Liassic and Oolitic species of that genus. The Jurassic
species, he observes, give evidence of common characters which
point to a well-marked type \_Cladophlehis tenuis (Brong.), C. Whit-
lyensia (Brong.), C. ligata (Phill.), C. Saihurnensis (Lindl.), C.
lohifolia (Lindl.), and several others, *'se ressemblent entre eux
et temoignent d'une parente tenant au moins, a leur physionomie
commune "J.^ Granting the existence of these common characters
there is still, as Saporta, indeed, recognizes, no evidence from such
traces of fructification as occur of any true relationship (" con-
generes ") ; indeed, the fructification, so far as it is known at
all, points to the inclusion of ferns of diff'erent families under
this single generic name.

TVe may adopt Schimper's definition, with certain modifications : ^

Fronds pinnately divided, pinnae spreading, lobes or pinnules
attached by the entire base or slightly contracted towards the place
of attachment, rarely somewhat auriculate, acuminate, or obtuse,
occasionally dentate, especially at the apex, not rarely subfalcately
curved upwards, midrib strong at base, and towards the summit
dissolving into branches, secondary veins given off at a more or
less acute angle, dichotomous a little above the base, and repeatedly
dichotomous.

It should be noted with reference to the present genus that
Heer* has included under Asplenium those Jurassic ferns which

^ Potomac Flora, p. 67.

* Pal. Fran^. ser. ii. vol. iv. p. 357.
^ Trait, pal. veg, vol. iii. p. 513.

* Fl. foss. Arct. vol. iv. 1877, p. 38.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 89

were formerly called Pecopteris, and more recently Ciadophlebis ;
the type of the Jurassic Asplenium being Pecopteria WhitbyensiSj
Brong. He figures in support of this wholesale removal to
Asplenium fragments of fertile pinnules which, so far as the
figures indicate, possess a similar aiTangement of sori to that of
Asplenium (sub-genus Biplazium)} Schenk has also figured
fertile pinnules of the same type in the case of an allied form,
Asplenites Rosserti.^

1.— Ciadophlebis longipennis, sp. nov.

Type. PinnsB and portion of rachis. PI. IX. Figs. 1 and \a.

Frond bipinnate, pinnae long, linear lanceolate, with strong and
prominent axes; pinnules separate, slightly constricted at the
base, rhomboidal, nervation of the characteristic Ciadophlebis type.

The chief distinguishing marks of this species are the shape
of the pinnules, and the long gradually tapering pinnae. Such
specimens as occur in the Museum Collection do not throw much
light on the general habit of the whole frond.

Dunker's species,^ Pecopteris Geinitzii, should be compared with
the present species; the two agree to some extent in the form
of the pinnules and venation, but in C. longipennis the pinnae are
much longer, more tapering and graceful than the shorter and stiff'er
pinnae shown in Dunker's figure. In the much smaller form
figured by Schenk* there is the same kind of likeness in the
pinnules, and the pinnae approach more closely to those of the
English species, but, on the whole, there is not sufficient reason to
include the latter in the North German form as defined by Duuker.

Ettingshausen and Debey founded a new genus, BichymosauruSj
for the reception of a characteristic type of fern from the Aachen
Chalk, and defined it as follows^ : —

** Sori duo, dorso medio venarum infimarum utriusque lateris

1 PI. xxi. figs. 3 and 4.

2 Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup. Lias, p. 51, pi. vii. figs. 7 and 7a.

3 Wealdenbildung, p. 6, pi. viii. fig. 3.

* Palaeontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxix. figs. 2 and 2a.

* Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. Cl. vol. xvi. 1859, p. 186.

90 CLADOPHLEBIS.

inserti, orbiculares. Frondes bipinnatae, dichotomse. Vense sim-
plices vel varius furcatae."

They include this genus in the Gleicheniacece. The nervation
appears to be very imperfect, but the median vein is nearly
always clear up to the apex of the pinnule. The figures 1, 2 and
3 of these authors, and also some specimens figured by Ettings-
hausen from the Cretaceous beds of Niederschona, resemble rather
closely some of the English examples of Cladophlehis longipennis}
In the absence of any satisfactory evidence in the Aachen species
as to affinity with Gleicheniacece, and in the face of certain
differences in the arrangement and shape of the pinnules in the
English fragments, it is better not to commit oneself to a definite
family, but for the present, at least, to retain the provisional name
Cladophlehis.

Cladophlehis virginiensis^ Font.,'^ shows in some of its pinnules
a form and venation very similar to those of C. longipenm's, but
there is probably no true affinity. Compare also Alethopteris
lohifolia, Schimp. (Phill.), Feistmantel, Fl. foss. Gond. vol. ii.
1880, p. 6, pi. iii. fig. 1.

The venation of this new species is perhaps hardly of the usual
Cladophlehis type ; in some respects, e.g. the acute angle at which
the lateral veins spring from the midrib, it comes very near to the
Sphenopteris pattern, but the habit of the plant and the mode
of attachment of the pinnules are characters in favour of some
other genus than Sphenopteris.

V. 2204. PL IX. Figs. 1 and U.

This single curved pinna shows very clearly the chief charac-
teristics of the species. The veins are marked on the sandy
matrix with special clearness, as shown in the single pinnule,
Fig \a. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 1069<?. Small pieces of pinna imperfectly preserved. Near
Hastings. Presented hy P. Rufford, Esq., 1885.

V. 2185 and V. 2185^. In the former part of a single pinna is
shown ; in the latter a fragment of the main rachis with a pinna
given off at a fairly acute angle. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

1 Sitz. k. Ak. Wiss. Wien. math.-nat. CI. vol. Iv. Abth. i. 1867, p. 244,
pi. i. figs. 1 and 2.
» Potomac Flora, p. 70, pl. iii. figs. 3-8 ; pl. iv. figs. 1 and 3-6.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 9l

V. 2197. Portions of seven pinnae with the rachis very pro-
minent. In many of the pinnules the midrib is fairly well defined,
but the venation as a whole is much less distinct than in the
figured specimen (V. 2204). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2203. Fragments of pinnae showing distinct venation. In
these pieces the central axes of the pinnae have a well marked
longitudinal groove ; the individual pinnules show the specific
characters clearly. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2210. This specimen shows part of the main rachis, and the
manner of attachment of the pinnae. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

2.— Cladophlebis Albertsii (Dunker).

1846. Neuropteris Albertsii, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p, 8, pi. vii. figs. 6
and Ga.

1849. Cladophlebis Albertsii, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Neuropteris Albertsii, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 83.

1853. Neuropteris Albertsii, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. p. 12.

1869. Alethopteris Albertsii, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 570.

1870. Fecopteris Whitbiensis,^ Trautscbold, Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscow,

vol. xiii. p. 27, pi. xix. fig. 2.

1871. Alethopteris Albertsii, Schenk, Palaeontograpbica, xix. p. 218,

pi. xxvii. figs. 4 and 4a.
? Fteris Albertsii, Heer, Fl. foss. Arct. vol. vi. pt. i. p. 29, pi. xvi.

fig. 5.
1883. ? Sphenopteris Jlabellifolia, var. erecta, Tenison-Woods, Proc. Linn.

Soc. JST.S. Wales, vol. viii. pt. i. p. 94, pi. ii. fig. 2.
1888. ? Fteris Alberlini, Velenovsky, Abh. math.-nat. CI. k. bbbm. Ges.

Wiss. vol. ii. Folg. vii. p. 15, pl. iv. figs. 5-10.
1892. ? Asplenium nebbense, Bartholni, Bot. Tid. Bot. For. Kjovenhavn,

p. 18, pl. vii. figs. 3-6.

T^/pe. Single pinna ; badly preserved.

Dunker adopts the genus JVeuropterts, and defines the species as
follows ^ : —

**!N'europteris fronde pinnata (bipinnata ?) pinnulis tenuibus
oppositis distantibus, sessilibus, oblongis, basi rotundatis vel
subcordatis, apice attenuatis, subobtusis; nervo medio crassiusculo,

* Cf. also Asplenites desertorum, Trautschold, loc. cit. pl. xviii. fig. 7.
2 Wealdenbildung, p. 8.

92 .CLAJ)OPHLEBIS.

venis creberrimls tenuissimis obliquis f urcatis ; rhachi gracili
tereti."

The much more perfect material at present available necessitates
an extension and modification of the original diagnosis.

Frond bipinnate, rachis flat and broad, pinnae linear lanceolate,
alternate to opposite, pinnules falcate, contiguous, attached by the
whole of the broad base, acuminate, margin entire or slightly
dentate towards the apex.

Brongniart, in his ** Tableau," includes Neuropteris Alhertsiiy
Dunk., among the Wealden plants under the name Cladophlehis
Alhertsii. Ettingshausen recognized a certain resemblance in
Dunker's species to Alethopteris, and adopted that generic name.
This change is accepted by Schimper, who remarks on the
difficulty of determining the true position of the species from
the fragment figured by Dunker.

In 1871 Schenk^ notes the close resemblance of Alethopteris
Alhertsii, Schimp., to A. Rbsserti, Schenk, A. insignis, Lindl., and
A. Whitby ensis (Brong.) ; he figures part of a pinna, which, in
spite of certain minor differences, is referred to Dunker's species.
The same author'^ draws attention to the resemblance between
Fecopteris Whithy ensis, Brong., as figured by Trautschold,^ and
Alethopteris Alhertsii (Dunk.).

Heer includes several Greenland specimens from the Atane beds
under Pteris (?) Alhertsii (Dunk.), but they do not all appear to
be quite the same as Cladophlehis Alhertsii] some of the figures,
however, show a close resemblance to this species. The same
genus is adopted by Yelenovsky for a fern figured by him as Fieris
Alhertini (Dunk.), from the Bohemian Cretaceous beds. He draws
attention to the complete correspondence between the Bohemian
species and the specimens described by Heer from Greenland, but is
not decided as to the relationship between Heer's species and the
original Wealden species of Dunker. Some of Velenovsky's
figures bear a strong resemblance to the English specimens, and
might perhaps be included in the synonoray of the species ; this is the
case with his fig. 10, also figs. 6, 7, and 8; but figs. 5 and 9 seem to
me rather more like the specimens referred by this author to Pteris

^ PaIa3ontograpliica, vol. xix. p. 218.

2 Ibid. p. 261.

' Kouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou, vol. xiii, 1870, pi. xix. fig. 2.

CLAD0PHLEBI8. 93

frigida, Heer, the pinnules of which are longer, stiff er, and less
falcate.^

Fontaine does not include Cladophlehis Alhertaii (Dunk.) among
the Potomac plants, but some of the pinnae which he figures
strongly resemble this species. As in the case of Thyrsopteris, there
appear to be some exceedingly narrow and ill-defined differences
between certain species. In sterile fronds of a type similar to
those of C. Albertsii it is hardly possible to determine the specific
limitations with any certainty; possibly no form of frond is so
widely distributed in Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous rocks in all
parts of the world.

C. virginiensis, Font.,^ possesses pinnules a trifle broader and
shorter than those of C. Alhertsii, and with entire margins. In
C. denticulata, Eont.,^ there is a very distinct resemblance to C.
Alhertsii, but the fragments on which the species is founded are
too small to enable us to form an opinion as to the frond as a
whole.

C. falcata, Font.,* is another fern of very similar form, but it
suggests a larger frond than that of C. Albertsii and differs in the
lobed margins of some pinnules; it is difficult to separate some
of the figures of C. virginiensis, Font., from those of C. falcata^
Font. In describing the former species Fontaine remarks that
'*The Potomac plant is strikingly like Brongniart's Fecopteris
Whitliensis and P. tenuis, and one may well hesitate to separate
them." ^ There is also the following remark with reference to the
same species which might be applied, in principle, to other ferns
from the Potomac beds: — *'It does not, however, seem proper to
make the Potomac plant an Asplenium so long as it shows no
fructification." Another species, C. acuta, Font.,^ has the same
type of frond as C. Alhertsii and other ferns ; it is spoken of as
*' more like Bunker's Neurojpteris Alhertsii .... than any other
previously described fossil, and is no doubt quite near the Wealden
species." The same species is compared also to Heer's Fteris
Alhertsii and Schenk's Alethopteris Alhertsii. The resemblance

1 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol. ii. Folg. 7, 1888.

2 Potomac Flora, p. 70, pi. iii. figs. 3-8 ; pi. iv. figs. 1 and 3-6.

3 Ibid. p. 71, pi. iv. fig. 2 ; pi. vii. fig. 7.

4 Ibid. p. 72, pi. iv. fig. 8 ; pi. v. figs. 1-6, etc.
6 Ibid. p. 71.

6 Ibid. p. 74, pi. V. fig. 7 ; pi. vii. fig. 6, etc.

94 .CLADOPHLEBIS.

between this Potomac species and the English specimens is cer-
tainly striking ; in the former there seems to be no sign of any-
denticulate character in the pinnules ; on the whole they ought,
I think, as Fontaine has decided, to be kept separate. Finally,
C. inclinata, Font.,^ resembles some portions of C. Alhertsii fronds.

It should be remembered that the material included in the
13ritish Museum Collection which I have referred to C. Alherisii^
nnder a modified definition, is much more perfect than that at the
disposal of previous writers; it is not surprising, therefore, that
some of the species which have been founded on isolated fragments
are brought into close connection with one another by the exami-
nation of the fronds of the English specimens.

It would not be difficult to point to various specimens from
different parts of the world which can with difficulty be separated
from the present species; this applies to such forms as are repre-
sented by Cladophlehis Whithyensis, Brong., and others. The
figures given by Oldham and Morris of Pecopteris {Alethopteris)
Indica, 0. and M.,^ appear to be very similar indeed to some of our
specimens of C. Alhertsii; and if such a pinna as the one figured
in pi. xxvii. fig. 3 were found in European Wealden rocks I
should have no hesitation in referring it to Bunker's species.
Oldham and Morris recognized the great difficulty in attempting
to separate such forms as Pecopteris Whithyensis, P. dentata, Gopp.,
P. nehhensis, Brong., and several other similar species.' Another
example of this close resemblance between portions of sterile
fronds, which come under the provisional designation Cladophlehis^
is afforded by the fragment figured by Saporta* as C. Bossertiy
Schenk ; this agrees closely with C. Alhertsii. Sphenopteris
Jlahellifolia, var. erecta. Ten. -Woods, seems to be very like C.
Alhertsii, if not identical. A specimen in the British Museum
(41417) from the Douglas Eiver Coal-seam in Tasmania is
probably identical with this Wealden species of Cladophlehis.
Possibly, as suggested in the synonomy, Aspleniiim nehhense
(Brong.), figured by Bartholni from the Jurassic rocks of Born-
holm, may be regarded as a fragment of Cladophlehis Alhertsii.

The specimens from the English Wealden beds show no traces

> Potomac Flora, p. 76, pi. x. figs. 3-4 ; pi. xx. fig. 7.

2 Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. i. ser. ii. pt. i. 1863, p. 47, pi. xxvii.

3 Jbid. p. 48.

* Pal. Franq. vol. i. 1873, pi. xxxi. fig. 4.

. CLADOPHLEBIS. 9$

of fructification, and therefore the genus Cladophlehis has been
retained. The comparison of these sterile fronds with those of
recent ferns is of no great value, especially in such a case as this,
where the form of frond has no very distinctive features; but,
without wishing to attach any importance to the resemblance,
there is a marked similarity between such a specimen as PI. VIII.
(V. 2794) and Onoclea Struthiopteris, Hoffm,^ the strong flat
rachis, the angle at which the pinnae are given off, and the
more or less falcate pinnules, all agreeing fairly closely.

The common species Cladophlehis Whitby ensis (Brong.), to which
reference has already been made, has been placed by some authors
in the genus Pteris ; by others referred to under the name
Asplenium ; and, more recently, assigned by Eaciborski to the
Osmundacece. It is better, I am inclined to think, to regard this
Jurassic species as representing a certain widely spread type of
frond, which, in all probability, includes under the same name
plants which would be referred to different genera and species
had we the necessary data to guide us. C. Whithyensis (Brong.)
is an excellent example of a Mesozoic fern of doubtful affinity
with an unusually wide geographical range ; it is of very similar
habit to C. Alhertsii (Dunk.).

The following are some of the records of C. Whithyensis and
allied forms illustrating the cosmopolitan nature of this particular
type of frond : —

Cladophlebis Whitby ensis (BroDg.).^

England. Alethopteris Whithyensis, L. and H., Foss. Flor. pi. cxxxiv.
France. Cladophlebis JRosserti, Saporta, Pal. Fran^. ser. ii. vol. i. 1873,

pi. XXX. fig. 4.
Germany. Asplenites Rosserti, Schenk, Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup. Lias,

pi. vii. figs. 6 and 7 ; pi. x. figs. 1-4.
Hungary. Alethopteris Whithyensis, Gopp. Andrae, Abh. k.-k. geol.

Reichs. vol. ii. Abth. iii. No. 4, p. 32.
Sweden. Cladophlebis {nehbensis var.) Rosserti, Nathorst, Sver. Geol.

Undersokn. 8vo. 1878. Fl. Hoganas. pi. ii. fig. 1.
BoRNHOLM. Asplenium Rosserti, Bartholni, Bot. Tid. Bot. For. Kjovenhavn,

1892, vol. xviii. Heft i. pi. vi. figs. 4-6, pi. vii. figs. 1-2.
Asplenium nehbense, Bartholni, loc. cit. pi. vii. figs. 3-6.

^ Luerssen includes Struthiopteris Germanica, "Willd., as a synonym of Onoclea
Struthiopteris, Hoffm. See Rabenhorst's Krj-pt. Flora, vol. iii. 1889, p. 485.
* Hist. veg. foss. p. 321, pi. cix. figs. 2^.

96

CLADOPHLEBIS.

Russia. Asplenium Whitbiense, Schmalhausen, Mem. Ac. Imp. St.

Petersbourg, vol. xxvii. ser, vii. 1880, pi. xi. figs. 1-10.
Persia. Fecopteris Whitbiensis, Schenk, Bib. Bot. Uhlworm und Haen-

lein, vol. vi. 1887.
India. Alethopteris Whilbyensis, Feistmantel, Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. ii.

1880, pi. iii. figs. 1-4, etc.
China. Asplenium TFhitbyense, Schenk, Richthofen's China, vol. iv.

pi. xxxi.
Asplenium argutulumy loc. cit. pi. xlvii. fig. 1.
Japan. Asplenium Whitbiensis, Yokoyama, Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan,

vol. iii. 1890, pi. iii. fig. 3 ; pi. x. fig. 1 and 2a.
Asplenium argutulum, Geyler, Palseontographica, vol. xxiv.

1877, pi. xxxi. fig. 1.
America. Cladophlebis falcata, C. virginiensis, C. acuta, Fontaine, Potomac

Flora, pi. iv. fig. 8 ; pi. iii. figs. 3-8 ; pi. v. fig. 7, etc.
Africa. Alethopteris, sp. Cf. Asp. Whitbyense (Hr.) and Asplenium.

Cf. nebbense, Brong. (Heer), Feistmantel, Abh. k. bohm. Ges.

Folg. vii. vol. iii. 1889, p. 68, pi. ii. fig. 12.

Cladophlebis Albertsii (Dunk.).

V. 2794. PI. YIII.

In this largest example of the species the main rachis has a
length of 18 cm., and is broad and flat on the upper surface. The
pinnae are fairly perfect throughout the entire length of the frond.
The falcate form of the pinnules is well marked ; their margins
appear to be entire for the most part, but some show indications
of denticulation ; the outlines are not very well defined in such
a matrix as we have in this specimen. Details of venation not
shown. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V. 712. Part of a frond well preserved, with rachis about
12 cm. long. The shape of the pinnules varies considerably from
the broadly deltoid and falcate form of the more terminal pinnae
to the long, narrow, and less distinctly falcate pinnules of the
larger and more basal pinnae. The latter come very near the
fragment figured by Dunker; Schenk's pinna agrees rather with
one of medium size.

Venation distinct and the axes of pinnae prominent. Margins
of the pinnules apparently entire, but in some cases there are
traces of denticulation; here, again, the outlines are not very
sharply defined. Ecclesboume. Dawson Coll.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 97

V. 2215. Fig. 9.

Portions of two pinnae attached to a rachis. Pinnules very-
distinct and show venation much more clearly than in the larger
specimens ; the denticulate margin is much more evident in these

Fig. 9 (J. 2215). Part of four pinnules of Cladophlebis Albertsii (Dunk.).
Twice natural size.

pinnules, four of which are shown in the Figure. All of the
pinnules have very acute apices, and some are distinctly falcate.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 10693. One of the pinnae in this specimen is very clearly
preserved, and shows in many of the pinnules a distinctly dentate
margin near the apex. The distal end of the pinna shows the
characteristic broadly serrate form of the segments and their finely
pointed teeth ; the same characters appear, but much less marked,
in some of the pinnae shown in PI. YIII. V. 2794. Near
Hastings. Freaented hy P. Rufford, JEsg^., 1885.

V. 2175. This small piece of a pinna is one of those specimens
about which it is difficult to decide ; it has been referred to C,
Albertsii with some hesitation. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2190. Venation distinct. A fragment of Sphenopteris
Fittoni, sp. nov., on the same piece of rock. Ecclesbourne.

Rnfford Coll.

V. 2197. The lower part of a frond. Rachis broad and strongly
curved. Some of the pinnules show indistinct traces of a dentate
margin. Fragments of Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).

V. 2197«. Fragments from lower part of frond. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2198. The pinnae are given off almost at right angles to the
rachis, and the pinnules are very closely arranged. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

98 CLADOPHLEBIS.

V. 2202<? and V. 2373. Terminal portions of a frond. Pinnae
opposite or sub-opposite. The rachis appears to be winged.
Pinnules alternate, dentate towards their apices, with clearly-
marked venation.

The larger pinnules are not quite so acutely pointed as in the
majority of specimens, but the terminal parts of the pinnse show
the usual serrate form. Cf. the apical portion of V. 2794, PL VIII.
Ecclesboume, Rufford Coll.

V. 22025. Another terminal piece, but with shorter and more
falcate pinnules. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V. 2206. The two specimens with this registered number show
pinnules with distinct venation ; some of them are falcate and with
dentate margin. Here, as in many other specimens referred to
this species, there is a variation in the shape of the pinnules, some
being falcate, others straight, but all attached to the axis of the
pinna by the entire base. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

Y. 2225. Curved rachis ; pinnae with clearly preserved pinnules
showing a distinctly dentate margin. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V. 2372. Portion of a frond, 10 cm. long. Pinnules distinct; in
some the falcate character is well shown, and in those of the
lower pinnae there are signs of a dentate margin.

V. 2372^7. Broad curved rachis. Some of the large pinnules
distinctly falcate with dentate margin. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V. 2175, V. 2187, V. 2191, V. 2201, V. 2217, V. 2220,
V. 2226, V. 2371, V. 2378, V. 2379, V. 2736. Ecclesboume.

Rufford Coll.

52942. Ecclesboume. Presented hy J. E. R. Peyton^ Esq.^ 1886.

These specimens are referred to the same species, C. Allertsii.

Some of the larger pinnae, e.g. V. 2371, suggest Alethopteria

Suttoni, Schimp.,^ and possibly this species may have to be
included as a synonym under C. Albertsii (Dunk.).

1 Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 217, pi. xxiv. fig 1.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 99

3.— Cladophlebis Browniana (Dunker).

1846. Pecopteris Browniana, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 5, pi. viii. fig. 7.

1848. Pecopteris Browniana, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl. vol. ii. p. 914.

1849. Pecopteris Browniana, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Pecopteris Browniana, Unger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 176.

1852. Alethopteris Reichiana, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Reicbs. vol. i.

Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 17.
1869. Alethopteris Eeichiana, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 569.
1871. Pecopteris Browniana, Scbenk, Palseontograpbica, vol. xix. p. 215,

pi. xxvi. figs. 2 and 2a.
1874. Alethopteris (?) Browniana, Schimper, loc. cit. vol. iii. p. 502.

Type. Small terminal pieces of pinnae.

Dunker compares his species to P. Reichiana, Presl, and defines
it as follows : —

*' Pecopteris fronde pinnata (hipinnata ?) pinnis lanceolatis,
pinnulis linearibus apice obtusis adnatis, oppositis et alternis, venis
tenerrimis obliquis instructis ; rhachi tenui." ^

There are a few specimens in the Museum Collection which
agree very closely with this species, and show certain characters
which distinguish them from Cladophlebis Dunheri, Schimp. They
add very little to our knowledge of Bunker's species.

Frond bipinnate, pinnae alternate or sub-opposite, long, and of
uniform breadth; pinnules approximate, obtusely pointed; venation
of the Cladophlebis type.

Ettingshausen has followed Dunker's example in comparing
Cladophlebis Browniana with Pecopteris Eeichiana, Presl, and,
indeed, includes the former as a synonym of the latter. Schimper,
in the first volume of his standard work, takes the same view,
but in the third volume he reverts to Dunker's original specific
designation.

Schenk, as previously noted, has probably included under
Dunker's species examples of Cladophlebis Dunheri, but in pi. xxvi.
fig. 2, Palaeontographica, xix. he figures what I regard as a true
Cladophlebis Browniana ; the bluntly pointed approximate pinnules
with entire margins are of rather a different type to that which
characterizes the larger pinnae of C. Dunkeri. The latter species
is a tripinnate form, but C. Browniana appears to be bipinnate.

1 "Wealdenbildung, p. 5.

100 CLADOPHLEBIS.

The pinnae correspond in character very closely to some of those
of Heer's species, Gleichenites Zifpei^ Corda, but there is not
sufficient evidence to warrant a removal from the artificial genus
Cladophlehu.

V. 2198. PI. YII. Fig. 4.

Long pinnse of fairly uniform breadth. The margins of the
pinnules are entire, and show no signs of subdivision. Venation
not very clear, but rather of the Cladophlelis than Pecopteris type.
Cf. Gleichenia Zippei, Corda, as figured by Heer from the Lower
Cretaceous of Greenland,'^ also Pecopteris Zippei as figured by
Corda in his account of the Lower Cretaceous Bohemian plants,^
and Gleichenia Nordenskioldi^ Hr., Fl. foss. Arct. pt. i. pi. i.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2207. The reverse piece of V. 2198.

V. 2204 and V. 2218. Fragments probably of the same species.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2373. Smaller pinnules in these fragments, but evidently of
the same type as C. Browniana (Dunk.). Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

4.— Cladophlebis Dunkeri (Scbimper).

1846. Pecopteris polymorpha, Dunker, Wealdenbildung, p. 6, pi. vii. fig. 5.
Pecopteris Ungeri, Dunker, loc. cit. p. 6, pi. ix. fig. 10.

1849. Pecopteris Vngeri, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Pecopteris polymorpha, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 177.
Pecopteris Uhgeri, linger, loc. cit. p. 177.

1869. Pecopteris Dunkeri, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 539.

1871. Pecopteris Dunkeri, Schenk, Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 214,

pi. xxvi. figs. 1 and lab; pi. xxxi. fig. 1.
1875. Pecopteris Browniana (in part), Schenk, Palseontographica, vol. xxiii.

p. 159, pi. xxvi. figs. 3-5.
Alethopteris Browniana, Schenk, loc. cit. p. 159.

1 Fl. foss. Arct. vol. iii. 1875, p. 44, pis. iv. v. etc.

2 Ibid. loc. cit.

3 Reuss. Verstein. bohm. Kreid. pi. xlix. fig. 2.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 101

1877. Pecopteria exiliforme, Geyler, Palaeontographica, vol. xxiv. p. 226,

pi. XXX. fig. 1.

1878, Pecopteris polymorpha, Dupont, Bull. Ac. R. Belg. ser. ii. vol. xlvi.

p. 387.

1889. Aspidium DunJceri, Fontaine, Potomac Flora, p. 101, pi. xxii. fig. 9;

pi. XXV. figs. 11 and 12; pi. xxvi. figs. 2, 8, 9, 18; pi. liv.
figs. 3 and 9.
Pecopteris Browniana (in part), Fontaine, loc. cit. p. 88, pi. xxiii.
fig. 6 ; pi. xxvi. figs. 3 and 13.

1890. Pecopteris ezilis, Yokoyama, Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. p. 35,

pi. i. figs. 8-10.
1890. Pecopteris Geyleriana, Nathorst, Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat.
CI. vol. Ivii. p. 48, pi. iv. figs. 2-6.

Type. Imperfect fragments of pinnae.

Dunker founded the species Pecopteris polymorpha on a few
fragments of a frond from the Korth German Wealden ; some years
later Schimper altered the name to P. Dunkeri, because Dunker's
specific name had been previously used. The following definition
of the species by Schimper corresponds closely with the original
description as given by Dunker : —

''Fronde hi- vel tripinnata, pinnis patentibus, circa 2-3 cm.
longis, alternis ; pinnulis inferioribus oblongis repando-incisis,
superioribus oblongis, obtusis, approximatis, terminalibus conflu-
entibus ; nervis indistinctis ; rachi primaria sulcata, rachibus
secundariis tenerrime striatis." ^

I have adopted the generic name Cladophlehis in the absence of
any fertile pinnules with characters sufficiently distinct to allow
of reference to a genus suggestive of natural affinity.

Frond tripinnate, rachis of medium breadth, pinnae approximate,
alternate and spreading, giving the whole frond a somewhat
deltoid form, tapering rapidly towards the apex ; pinnules small,
entire and somewhat falcate, attached by the entire base, or longer
and lobed, and narrower towards the point of attachment ; venation
indistinct, midrib fairly well marked.

If Schenk's figure of Cladophlehis DunkerP be examined carefully,
it will be seen that the tripinnate character gives place to the
bipinnate form in passing from the lower to the upper end of the
axis, on the right-hand side of the specimen. The parts towards

1 Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. 1869, p. 539.

2 Palajontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxvi. fig. 1.

102 CLADOPHLEBIS.

the upper end are very similar to Schenk's later figures of
Fecopteria Browniana, pi. xxvi, figs. 3-5/ and, in view of the
more perfect nature of the English material, and the additional
information it affords as to the character of the fern, I have
regarded these specimens as portions of larger pinnae of C.
Dunheri. The figure given by Geyler of Pecopteris exiliforme,
from Japan, distinctly resembles C. Dunkeri, and does not suggest
a plant with a well-marked specific difference.

Fontaine's examples of Aspidium Bunheri undoubtedly belong to
that species, but the fertile pinnule, pi. xxii. fig. ^a,^ on which
apparently the reference to Aspidium is based seems hardly suffi-
cient evidence for assuming identity with the recent genus. I
have included under C. Bunkeri some of the figures of Pecopteris
Browniana given by Fontaine ; probably more than those quoted in
the above list of synonyms might be referred to Schimper's species.
This inclusion of some of Fontaine's examples of P. Browniana, as
well as some of those referred by Schenk to the same species, is the
result of the more perfect material recently acquired which proves
the organic connection of different parts of fronds previously re-
garded as distinct. Yokoyama, in describing his Japanese plant,
adopts Phillips' Jurassic species, P. exilis^ for certain fern frag-
ments which I am inclined to consider identical with C. Bunkeri'^
the figure of P. ohtusifolia, L. and H.,* which is included by
Phillips under P. exilis, and the pinnae of the latter species
probably represent some other fern than that figured by Yokoyama.
His specimens cannot well be separated from the present species.
I^athorst compares his species, P. Geyleriana, from Japan, with
P. exiliforme, Gey. {=P. exilis of Yokoyama); this, too, appears to
me inseparable from C. Bunkeri. Cf. iN'athorst, pi. iv. figs. 2-6, **
and PL YII. Fig. 3 of the present Catalogue. The fragment
mentioned by Nathorst as Pecopteris, sp.,^ is compared by him to
P. exilis and P. Bunkeri,

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii.
2 Potomac Flora.

' Geol. Yorks, p. 210, pi. viii. fig. 16. This species has recently been referred
to a new genus, Elukia, Raciborski, Bet. Jalirb. vol. xiii. 1891, p. 5.

* Fossil Flora, vol. iii. pi. clviii.

* Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol. Ivii. 1890.

* Ibid. pi. vi. fig. 4.

CLADOPHLEBIS. 103

In Saporta's species, Scleropteris dissecta^^ we have a similar
form of frond to that of C. Dunkeri, as regards general outline,
but, as Saporta points out in his definition of the genus, the
venation is distinct.

The terminal portions of pinnae which served as Dunker's type
for P. Browniana might almost be included in P. Dunkeri, but the
more perfect specimens figured by Schenk in his earlier contribution
to the Wealden Flora make the retention of the species advisable.

V. 2377. PI. VII. Fig. 3.

Portions of large pinnae ; pinnules distinct, but venation difficult
to determine. Compare this specimen with Schenk's figures 3—5,
pi. xxvi.,^ also Kathorst's figures of Pecopteris Geyleriana, etc.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2185. The two specimens with this registered number have
entire pinnules gradually passing into small pinnae. They show,
in places, the habit of C. Albertsii (Dunk.), but cannot be separated
by any distinct features from other specimens which agree with the
typical form of the species. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2193^. Same form as the figured specimen V. 2377. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2194. This shows the spreading habit of the frond, and a
passage from the bipinnate to the tripinnate form. Details not
very distinct. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 2219 and V. 2345. Fragments of pinnae ; both of them agree
with Schenk's figure, pi. xxvi. fig. 1,^ and here the small pinnules
are nearly at right angles to the rachis. Some of the pieces, e.g,
in V. 2345, differ from such specimens as V. 2377, in having their
ultimate divisions smaller and more at right angles to the axes of
the pinnae, but by comparing them with V. 2382, etc., we appear
to have a gradual transition to the normal type. There is a
difference in the matrix in this case which doubtless has much to
do with the apparent divergence in form. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll,

1 Pal. FraiKj. vol. i. 1873, p. 365, pi. xlviii.

2 Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii.
^ Ibid. vol. xix.

104 SrHENOPTEEIS.

V. 2224. A very delicate specimen, possibly a young form of
C. Dunkeri. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2731. This impression on a sandstone matrix has a different
appearance to those specimens preserved in clay or slate, but the
differences are, I believe, rather apparent than real; and, con-
sidering the effect of a change in the manner of preservation, it
would be unwise to institute an additional species. Ecclesbourne.

Mufford Coll.

Y. 725. Kear Hastings. Dawson Coll.

V. 1069<y. Ecclesbourne. Presented hy F. Rufford, Esq., 1885.

V. 2185, V. 2193—^/. V. 2377, PI. YII. Fig. 3, V. 2195,
V. 2208, V. 2212a, V. 2213, V. 2372, V. 2382, show rachis and
alternate pinnae. Ecclesbourne. Ruffmd Coll.

3527. Weald. Mantell Coll. 51404. Tunbridge Wells. Purchased.

Genus SPHENOPTERIS, Brongniart.
[Mem. Mus. Hist. Nat. Paris, vol. viii. 1822, p. 233.]

Brongniart, in 1822, suggested a subdivision into five sections, or
subgenera, of Schlotheim's comprehensive genus Filicites. The name
Sphenopteris was proposed by him for those ferns characterized by
cuneiform pinnules, with rounded or lobed terminations, and with
veins palmately disposed, or radiating from the base of the pinnule.

The fossil taken as the type of this subgenus was S. elegans,
Brong. In the ** Prodrome d'une histoire des vegetaux fossiles,"
Brongniart defines his genus as follows' : —

''Fronde hi- ou tripinnee; pinnules retrecies a la base, non
adherentes au rachis, plus ou moins profondement lobees ; lobes
divergens, presque palmes; nervures paroissant presque rayonner
de la base de la pinnule."

The author of the genus points out the comprehensive nature
of Sphenopteris, in that a large number of recent fern genera,

p. 50.

SPHENOPTEEIS. 105

belonging to several families, are necessarily included in the
definition which he has given.^

Since Brongniart's time Sphenopteris has been subdivided by-
various writers into separate subgenera or genera. In such cases
where the subdivision has been founded upon characters which are
clearly of taxonomic value, the new terms proposed ought to be
accepted as useful additions towards a rational classification of fossil
ferns. On the other hand, to multiply terms for genera founded
on characters admittedly of doubtful value, is hardly calculated to
advance our knowledge of the botanical affinities of fossil forms.
As an instance of such grouping we may refer to Schimper,^ who
has instituted several types of Sphenopteris, based on resemblances
of the purely vegetative organs to the fronds of existing genera.
Until we know more of the fructification of fossil ferns, it is
safer, and more consistent with our endeavours to avoid further
unnecessary increase in the list of generic terms, already sadly too
long, to make use of such genera as Sphenopteris under the older
and more comprehensive sense. As evidence accumulates which
is of real value, we shall sooner or later be in a position to make
use of those standards of comparison which, in the case of
recent ferns, are recognized as the most trustworthy bases for
family and generic classification.

For convenience sake the provisional genus Sphenopteris may be
defined as follows : —

Herbaceous plants, fronds hi- or tripinnate, venation of the types
Sphenopteridisy Ctenopteridis, or Cyclopteridis] pinnules lobed,
dentate or entire, tapering towards the point of attachment to
the rachis, form varied, but frequently cuneate.

"Whilst making use of a definition such as this we must bear in
mind that Sphenopteris, as a genus, is founded on general characters,
and such as recur in distinct families and genera. Fontaine,^ in
the "Potomac Flora," has called attention to the provisional
nature of this genus; but, unfortunately, in his frequent use of
recent generic names there does not always appear to be sufficient
data to warrant a departure from the older, if less scientific,
terminology.

^ Hist. veg. foss. p. 169.

2 Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. 1869, p. 371.

' Potomac Flora, p. 89.

106 SPHENOPTEEIS.

Potonie,^ in a recent part of his serial papers on Carboniferous
ferns, has promised a revision of the genus Sphenopteris.

1.— Sphenopteris Fontainei, sp. nov.

Ti/pe. Piece of a ? frond. British Museum. PI. VII. Fig. 2.

Frond delicate, tripinnate, pyramidal in form ; pinnae alternate,
approximate, on a slender rachis; pinnules deeply dissected,
ultimate divisions narrowly linear, with bluntly terminated apices.
Venation of Sphenopteridis type.

Under this species a few specimens are included which have a
certain amount of resemblance to the more finely-divided forms
of Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.), but differ in the much smaller
size of the ultimate segments, and in their more compact habit.
In the absence of any trace of fructification it will be better to
keep the provisional genus Sphenopteris. Compare the specimens
mentioned below with Figs. 5 and 6 (V. 2295 and V. 2731),
PI. III. of Ruffordia Gopperti, also, as regards habit, with
Onychiopsis elongata (Geyler);^ S. Fontainei suggests, to some
extent, the latter species in miniature.

I have ventured to name this species after the author of the
** Potomac Flora," who has made such valuable contributions to
our knowledge of IN'orth American Mesozoic floras.

V. 2155. PI. VII. Fig. 2.

Part of one side of a } frond, with the details fairly well shown.
Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

V. 2152. More of the frond shown than in the former specimen,
but the details less distinct. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2295. Two specimens very similar to V. 2155; also the
fragments V. 2154 and V. 2358. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

^ Jahrb. k. preuss. Geol. Landesanst, 1889, p, 21.

2 PI. II. Fig. 2. For more complete specimens refer to Yokoyama, Journ.
Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. pi. ii.

SPHENOPTEKIS. 107

2.— Sphenopteris Fittoni, sp. nov.

[PL vi. fig. 2 ; PI. vii. fig. 1.]

1836. Sphenopteris gracilis, Fitton, Trans. Geol. Soc. vol. iv. ser. ii. pt. ii.

p. 103.
1849. Pachypteris gracilis, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.
1852. Fachypteris gracilis, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i.

Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 24.
1864. Asplenium palceopteris, linger, Reise Fregatte Novara, vol. i. Abth.

ii. p. 3, pi. i. fig. 4.
1893. ? Sphenopteris Delgadoi, Saporta, Rev. gen. bot. vol. v. 1893, p. 270,

pi. iv. fig. 5.

Ti/pe. Part of a frond. British Museum. PL YI. Fig. 2.

Prond ovato-lanceolate, bipinnate ; pinnae linear acuminate,
alternate ; pinnules alternate, ovate acuminate to deltoid, de-
current, with entire, slightly dentate or deeply lobed margin.
Yenation of the Sphenopteridis type.

In a paper read before the Geological Society in 1827 Dr.
Pitton briefly described a Wealden fern from near Tunbridge Wells,
which he subsequently figured under the name of Sphenopteris
gracilis} At the time when Pitton's paper was read no species of
that name had been described, but before his work appeared in the
Geological Transactions, Brongniart had referred a Carboniferous
fern to the genus Sphenopteris under the name S. gracilis.

In a later work Brongniart refers Pitton's species to Fachypteris
gracilis. The specimen which Pitton figured as the type of
Sphenopteris gracilis is in the Museum of Practical Geology,
Jermyn-street. No doubt the impression has sufi'ered to some
extent since 1836 ; the specimen no longer shows the form of the
pinnules with the clearness of outline represented in the figure.
The general habit of the frond is, however, faithfully reproduced.
In some of the pinnules there are slight indications of a midrib,
and an occasional suggestion of dentate margins.

I propose to retain the original generic name Sphenopteris, and,
in view of the fact that the term gracilis has been applied to

1 Fitton, Trans. Geol. Soc. vol. iv. ser. ii. pt. ii. p. 103.

108

SPHENOPTERIS.

another type of Sphenopterts, it may not be unfitting to adopt the
new specific designation S. Fittonu Dunker refers to Fitton's
description of S. gracilis under the head of S. Mantelli, Brong. ; ^
Schenk,2 Heer,^ and Carruthers* follow Dunker's example in
regarding S. gracilis as a synonym of S. Mantelli. Schimper*
also includes Fitton's species under S. Mantelli, and Ettings-
hausen ^ mentions Pachypteris gracilis under S. Mantelli.

In the Rufford Collection there are a few specimens, which will
be described more fully below, closely corresponding with Fitton's
figure, and which demonstrate by their more perfect form the
correctness of his opinion that the Tunbridge Wells fern is really
a different species from Brongniart's type, >S. Mantelli.

One of the two species of ferns Asplenium palaopteris, Ung.,
mentioned in the introduction as described by Unger from New
Zealand, comes exceedingly near S. Fittoni. The resemblance is
especially striking in the case of Unger's pi. i. fig. 4;"^ the other
figures are enlarged and, to some extent, restored drawings. The
species is compared by its author to Sphenopteris tenera, Dunker, a
form now referred to Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong). It is difficult
to understand on what grounds this New Zealand species was
named Asplenium, as no trace of fructification appears to have been
found. Possibly it is somewhat rash to absorb Unger's species into
one so far separated from it geographically, but the close agree-
ment between the two forms must be advanced in justification of
this step.

The specific name palceopteris has, of course, the priority as
compared with that of Fittoni, but the fragments on which Unger
founded his species were exceedingly small and imperfect, and far
inferior to the specimens from which the definition of S. Fittoni
has been constructed. An additional reason for the adoption of
the latter name is the fact that Fitton was the first to describe and
figure the type specimen, which he called S. gracilis^ which term

* "Wealdenbildung, p. 3.

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xix, p. 209.

3 Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 12.

* Geol. Sussex, 1878, p. 282.

* Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii. p. 469.

^ Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 24.
' Eeise Fregatte Novara.

SPHENOPTERIS. 109

■would have been retained had there not been a Carboniferous fern
of the same name.

In looking at the specimen (V. 2242), PI. VI. Fig. 2, and at that
figured in PL YII. Fig. 1 (V. 2327), or the one with still more
deeply lobed pinnules (V. 2327a), Fig. 10, p. Ill, we seem to have
two distinct species represented by these extreme forms. A careful
examination of the several specimens included under the present
species clearly demonstrates a gradual transition from one form to
another, and I am unable to draw any satisfactory line between the
various forms of fronds. The resemblance of certain specimens to
species already described from other localities and horizons is pointed
out in the descriptions of the individual fragments. Some of the
specimens I was at first disposed to place under Sphenopteris
Fichleri^ Schenk,^ as more perfect examples of that fern than
appear to have been available when the species was instituted.
It is extremely difficult to decide in certain cases whether the
better course is to separate specimens by distinct names when they
differ in the details of form shown by the ultimate segments, or to
include them under one name. Neither plan will lead to final and
satisfactory results so long as we have only fragments of sterile fronds
and pinnaB to guide us. On the whole the inclusion of these frond
specimens in /S. Fittoni appears to me the preferable course, which
may or may not be justified by the acquisition of more perfect
material. In speaking of S. Pichleri, Schenk draws attention to
the Hymenophyllaceous appearance of the pinnules; this same filmy
character is well seen in some of the English forms of 8. Fittonif
especially in the case of V. 2327a, shown in Fig. 10, p. 111. The
chief differences between the specimens of S. Fittoni, which have
some resemblance to S. Pichleri, Schenk, also S. Cordai, Dunk.,'
and the type specimen figured by Fitton, consist in the more
divided pinnules and the more filmy nature of the lamina ; the
latter character is, however, not very trustworthy, as it may be only
apparent and really due to differences in the rock matrix, thus
being simply an accident of preservation rather than an original
character.

In addition to the species referred to below as resembling in
a greater or less degree S. Fittoni^ there may be mentioned

^ Palseontographica, vol. xxiii. p. 166, pi. xxix. figs. 2-5.
2 Ibid. vol. xix. p. 210.

110 SPHENOPTEEIS.

Thyrsopteris incequipinnata, Fontaine,^ Sphenopteris Bunhurtanus,^
0. and M., and S.fraplis, Heer.

V. 2242. PI. VI. Fig. 2.

The figure of this specimen shows very clearly the general habit
of S. Fittoni. The venation of the pinnules cannot be made out in
the figured specimen, which is in the form of a thin carbonaceous
impression on a clay matrix; in the ironstone specimens the
venation is often remarkably distinct.

The shape of the pinnules is very similar to that in S. pluri-
nervia,^ Heer, or Scleropteris Pomelli,^ Saporta, but the resemblance
is confined to details, rather than pointing to a close agreement
of the ferns as a whole.

The pinnules of the lower part of the frond shown in the figure
have distinctly serrate or lobed margins. This character becomes
much more pronounced in other specimens, which probably repre-
sent pinnae from the more basal part of a frond. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2327. PI. YII. Fig. 1.

This specimen is preserved on a fine-grained ironstone, and
shows the details of the pinnules much more clearly than V. 2242.
So far as it is possible to arrive at a conclusion from the available
material I am in favour of including this and similar specimens
with those of the form represented in PL VI. Fig. 2. The greater
lobing of the ultimate segments is probably merely an extension
of the marginal indentations referred to in the lower pinnae of
V. 2242. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2327«. Woodcut, Fig. 10.

Here the pinnules are still more divided, and the ultimate
lobes have a truncate appearance. Length of pinnule about
4 mm. The venation is shown with remarkable distinctness
and much more clearly than in the majority of the specimens.

^ Potomac Flora, p. 142, pi. Ivii. figs. 3 and 8.

2 Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. i. ser. ii. pt. ii. p. 78, pi. xxxii. This species is
described by Feistmantel as Bymenophyllites Bunburyanus (0. and M.).

3 Fl. foss. Arct. vol. iii. 1875, p. 34, pi. ii. fig. 20.

* Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 13, pi. xi. fig. 6 ; pi. xv. fig. 8.
6 Pal. Fran9. vol. i. 1873, pi. xlvi. fig. 1.

SPHENOPTEBIS. Ill

The figure gives tlie impression of a filmy fern, and in the
light brown stain on the rock surface, representing the leaf
lamina, we have just that kind of imprint which might be looked
for in a Hymenophyllaceous type of fern. Attention has already
been called to the danger of trusting too much to such resem-
blances, which are frequently nothing more than expressions of

Fig. 10 (V. 2327a). Enlarged 4 times.

the different effects of the diversity in texture and porosity of the
rock matrix. The single pinuule shown in the woodcut agrees
very closely with one figured by Potonie' in a Carboniferous ferD,
Sphenopteris Hmninghausi, Brong. , var. Larischiformis, Pot. ; but
it is not for a moment suggested that the two species have any
natural affinity whatever. Ecclesbourne. Rufford ColL

V. 2162. Woodcut, Pig. 11.

Probably a pinna from the basal portion of a frond. Pinnules
ovato-lanceolate and lobed. The venation is fairly distinct, but, as
is usually the case with carbonaceous impressions on clay, not nearly

Fm. 11 (V. 2162). Enlarged 3

so well marked as on the ironstone. The figure shows a median,
and less marked lateral veins. Some of the pinnules in Pitton's
type specimen correspond fairly closely with those represented in

^ Jahrb. k. preuss. Geol. Landesanst, 1890, p. 23, pi. vii.

112 SPHENOPTEEIS.

the adjoining woodcut. Cf. TJnger's figure of Asplenium palceo-
pterts, pi. i. fig. 4,^ and the fragments of Sphenopteris Belgadoi,
figured by Saporta.' Ecclesbourne. Eufford Coll.

V. 724. Small fragment ; probably 8. Fittoni. Dawson Coll.

V. 2161. Part of a lower portion of a frond. The pinnules
distinctly lobed. This fragment is not unlike 8. Pichleri,^ Schenk,
but in the latter the lobes are described as acute ; the small pieces
figured by Schenk suggest rather a slender foundation for his
species. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2163. A fragment from the upper part of a frond. There
are somewhat striking diflPerences between this specimen and
V. 2161 and V. 2162, but on comparison with the more complete
example, V. 2242, PI. YI. Pig. 2, there can be little doubt as
to specific identity. Cf. Heer's figure of S. plurinervia^ from
Portugal. Ecclesbourne. Eufford Coll,

V. 2164. Rachis 12 cm. long. Pinnules indistinctly preserved,
but many of them are exactly the same as those of V. 2242, and
others agree with the more deeply divided forms such as V. 2327,
etc. The pinnae are given off from the main rachis at almost a
right angle. Ecclesbourne. Eufford Coll.

V. 2190. Part of a frond as an impression on ironstone. This
affords another example of what I take to be the effect of the
manner of preservation on the general appearance of the fossil.
Ecclesbourne. Eufford Coll.

V. 2352. Here, again, some of the pinnae are almost at right
angles to the main axes : cf. V. 2164. There is a certain resem-
blance to S. Gomesiana,^ Hr. ; also to S. Pichleri, Schenk, and,
to some extent, to Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.).

1 Keise Fregatte No vara.

2 Rev. gen. hot. vol. v. 1893, pi. iv. fig, 6.

s Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii. pi. xxix. figs. 2-5.

* Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 13, pi. xi. fig. 6, etc.

^ Heer, loc. cit. p. 13, pi. xi. fig. 7.

WEICHSELIA. 113

V. 2352a. This terminal fragment comes very near to 0.
Mantelli (Brong.), but, if compared with V. 2163, it appears to
be linked with S. Fittoni by well-defined characters. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2356. Cf. V. 2327; also the terminal part of the frond
with the tip of V. 2242.

V. 2356^. Part of a frond. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2183. The two specimens with this registered number must
probably be regarded as tips of S. Fittoni fronds.

V. 2372. On the same piece of rock is a specimen of Clado-
phlehis Alhertsii (Dunk.). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2878. V. 2882. Fragments. K'ear Hastings. BecUes Coll.

Genus WEICHSELIA, Stiehler.
[Palaeontographica, vol. v. 1857, p. 74.]

The reasons for which this generic name is substituted for the
older and better known term are stated in the description of
Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.). Brongniart's genus LonchopteriSy
under which W. Mantelli has hitherto been included, is defined
by him in the ''Prodrome" as follows^: —

'* Fronde plusieurs fois pinnatifide; pinnules plus ou moins
adherentes entre elles k leur base, traversees par une nervure
moyenne ; nervures secondaires reticulees."

Schimper,^ in his definition of the same genus, adds "habitu
Alethopterideo." This Alethopteris habit is a recognized charac-
teristic of the genus, and is complied with by the species figured
by Brongniart in his '' Histoire," except in the case of the
English and French "Wealden forms. ^ The more perfect and
larger portions of fronds from Eussia and Germany, which are
usually known under the generic title Weichselia^ are without the

^ Prodrome, p. 59.

* Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 620.

* PI. cxxxi. etc.

114 WEICHSELIA.

least doubt the same, or some nearly allied plant, as the smaller
examples named by Brongniart Lonchopteris Mantelli. "When the
term WeichseUa was proposed it was in ignorance of the fact that
the pinnules of the species to which the new name was applied
possessed reticulate venation, and would, therefore, come under the
older venation genus Lonchopteris. Now that we know more as
to the characters of these WeichseUa fronds it is seen that, in spite
of the resemblance founded on venation alone, there is a well-
marked divergence from those species which Brongniart' s defini-
tion of Lonchopteris correctly describes. The generic characters
may be stated briefly thus: —

Prond bipinnate, rachis broad and rigid, pinnae long and with
prominent axes, pinnules entire with obtuse apex, attached by the
whole of their bases, distinct ; venation of the Lonchopteris type.

In the absence of what we may regard as satisfactory evidence
for the existence of other species than W. Mantelli, I have included
all the WeichseUa forms under a single species.

1.— Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.).

1824. Peeopteris reticulata, Stokes and "Webb, Trans. Geol. Soc. vol. i.

ser. ii. p. 423, pi. xlvi. fig. 5 ; pi. xlvii. fig. 3.

1825. Pecopteris reticulata, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt. iv. p. xx.

1827. Pecopteris reticulata, Mantell, Illust. Geol. Sussex, p. 56, pi. iii.

fig. 5 ; pi. iii*. fig. 3.

1828. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brongniart, Prodrome, p. 60.
Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brongniart, Hist. veg. foss. p. 369, pi. cxxxi.

figs. 4 and 5.

1832. Pecopteris reticulata, Passy, Depart. Seine -inferieure, p. 340, pi. xv.

figs. 9 and 10.

1833. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 244, pi. i.

fig. 3.

1836. Polypodites Mantelli, Goppert, Foss. Farrnkrt. p. 341.

1837. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Lindley and Hutton, Foss. Flor. pi. clxxi.

1838. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Sternberg, Flor. Vorwelt. vii. p. 167.

1839. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Mantell, Wonders of Geology, vol. i. edit. iii.

p, 371.

1844. Pecopteris sp., Auerbacb, Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. 1844, pt. i.

vol. xvii. p. 145, pi. V. figs. 10-11.

1845. Pterophyllwn Murchisonianum, Goppert, in Murchison's Geol. Kussia,

vol. ii. p. 501, pi. G, figs. 4-6.
Pterophyllum Jilicium, Goppert, loc. cit. pi. G, fig. 4.

-WEICHSELIA. 115

1845. Polypodites reticulata, Unger, Syn. plant, foss. p. 93.
Polypodites Mantelli, linger, ibid. p. 93.

1846. Fecopteris Murchisoniana, Auerbach and Frears, Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat.

Mosc. 1846, pt. i. vol. xix. p. 495, pi. ix.

1846. Pecopteris Auerhachiana, Rouillier, Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. 1846,

pt. ii. vol. xix. p. 412.

1847. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Mantell, Geol. Excurs. I. Wight, p. 287,

fig. 21.

1847. Pecopteris Auerhachiana, Rouillier, Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. 1847,

pt. i. vol. XX. p. 445.

1848. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Bronn, Index Pal. Nomencl. vol. i. p. 667.

1849. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Polypodites Mantelli, Unger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 166.
Polypodites reticulatus, Unger, loc. cit. p. 166.

1852. Polypodites reticulatus, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Eeicbs. vol. i.

Abth. 3, No. 2, p. 17.
? Alethopteris recendor, Ettingshausen, loc. cit. p. 16, pi. iii. figs. 17

and 18.
1854. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 12.

1854. Anomopteris sp., Stiehler, Zeitschr. deutsch. geol. Ges. vol. vi. p. 661.

1855. Anomopteris Ludovicce, Stiehler, Ber. Nat. Ver. Harz, p. 14.
1855. Anomopteris Ludovicce, Weichsel, Ber. Nat. Ver. Harz, p. 26.
1857. Weichselia Ludovicce, Stiehler, Palseontographica, vol. v. p. 75,

pis. xii. and xiii.
1865. Pteris reticulata, Ettingshausen, Farrnkrt. Jetztwelt, p. 117.

1868. Weichselia Ludovicce, Eichwald, Leth. Boss. vol. ii. sect. i. p. 21,

Atlas (Per. Moy.), pi. i. fig. 2.

1869. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 623.
Weichselia Ludovicce, Schimper, loc. cit. vol, i. p. 599.

? Alethopteris Ettingshausei, Schimper, loc. cit. vol. i. p. 569.

1870. Asplenites Klinensis (in part), Trautschold, Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat.

Mosc. vol. xiii. p. 21, pi. xx. figs. 1 and 5-8.
Polypodites {Lonchopteris) Mantelli, Trautschold, loc. cit. p. 32,
pi. xix. fig. 8.

1871. Lonchopteris recentior, Schenk, Pateontographica, vol. xix. p. 4, pi. i.

figs. 2-6.
1871. Weichselia Ludovicce, Heer, Neue Denkschr. Schweiz. Ges. Nat.
vol. xxiv. p. 5.

1878. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Dupont, Bull. Ac. R. Belg. vol. xlvi. ser. ii.

p. 387.

1879. Lonchopteris recentior, Hosius and von der Marck, Pala^ontographica,

vol. xxvi. pp. 201, 209, pi. xiii. figs. 176-179 ; pi. xliv. figs.
190-191.
Weichselia Ludovicce, Hosius and von der Marck, loc. cit. p. 207,
pi. xliii. figs. 187-188; pi. xliv. fig. 189.
1883. Cladophlebis nebbensis, Geinitz, Arch. Yer. Freund. Nat. Mecklenb.
Jahr. xxxvi. p. 50.

116 WEICHSELIl.

18«3. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Renault, Cours bot. foss. vol. iii. p. 167.

1888. Weichselia Ludovicm, Schulze, Flor. subhercyn. Kreid. p. 14.

1889. Lonchopteris Mantelli, Bristow, Geol. I. Wight, p. 268,

1890. Weichselia erratica, Nathorst, Arch. Ver. Freund. Nat. Mecklenb.

Jahr. xliv. p. 1, pi. i. fig8. 1 and 2.
1890. Pecopteris Get/leriana (in part), Nathorst, Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss.
math.-nat. CI. vol. Ivii. p. 49, pi. iv. fig. 3 (not the other figures
of this species).

Ti/pe. Fragments of pinnee ; pinnules showing venation. The
specimens on which the genus Weichselia was founded are much
larger, and consist of long pinnae attached to a broad rachis ; no
venation shown.

The first diagnosis of Weichselia Ludovicce is that given by
Stiehler in 1857; the earlier definitions of the English species,
Lonchopteris Mantelli, were founded on much smaller specimens
than those which Stiehler had before him : —

** Prons bipinnata, expansa, maxima (5-6-8 pedalis) ; rhaohis
valida, profunde sulcata, apicem versus tenuissime excurrens ;
pinnae terminales subverticales, elongatae, anguste lineares, remotaB
(distantes), reliquae horizontales, convexae, approximatae, lineari-
lanceolatae, ad 18 poll, usque longae, ^V poll, latae, omnes basi
discretae ; pinnulae perbreves, oblongae, obtusae, integerrimae, approxi-
matae, fructiferae medio, canaliculatae, ambitu contractae, steriles
subplanae."^

The following definition includes most of the important characters
in this peculiar type of fern : —

Frond bipinnate, rachis broad and rigid, pinnae alternate, very
long, of uniform breadth and with prominent axes ; pinnules entire
with obtusely rounded apex, a midrib and reticulate secondary
veins, oblong, except towards the distal ends of pinnae, where they
become more or less triangular in shape and have pointed apices,
attached by the entire base, separate and not confluent ; the stiff
and thick pinnules are usually inclined towards the axis of the
pinna, and the two rows form with the axis an open V instead of
lying in a horizontal position.

The earliest figures and description of Weichselia Mantelli
(Brong.) are usually attributed to Mantell in the year 1824; the
paper to which reference is made was written by Stokes and Webb,

^ Palaeontographica, vol. v. 1857, p. 75.

WEICHSELIA. 117

and not by Mantell. These authors recognized the impossibility of
determining botanical affinity in the absence of fructification, and
placed the Wealden specimens in Brongniart's artificial genus
Pecopteris. The figures of Stokes and Webb are reproduced in
Mantell's ''Illustrations of the Geology of Sussex," and, in addition,
there is represented in pi. i. fig. 4 what may be part of a pinna of
the same species. There are two figures with the same number;
one of these is a leaf of Hymenophjllum Tunlridgense, Sw., but the
other is not mentioned in the text, and may be Weichselia Mantelli.

In Brongniart's *' Histoire," ^ there is a figure of a French
specimen from Beauvais much larger than the fragments pre-
viously figured from the English Wealden. Brongniart draws
attention to certain differences between the Wealden form of
Lonchopteris and the Carboniferous species of the same genus.

Lindley and Button's figure shows a pinna from near Wansford,
^Northamptonshire, with a length of 6^ inches ; no venation is
shown. In speaking of this species in the " Wonders of Geology,"
Mantell notes its occurrence in Sweden.^

In the figure of Fecopteris Murchisoniana given by Auerbach
and Frears the pinnae are represented rather more at right
angles to the main rachis than is the case in the English specimen
figured in PI. X. Fig. 3. In 1857 Stiehler described more fully the
large specimens of fronds which he had previously referred to
Brongniart's genus Anomopteris, and, recognizing several points of
divergence from that type of fern, he instituted the new generic
term Weichselia.

The fragments figured by Ettingshausen as Alethopteris recentior
are small portions of pinnse; the pinnules show very indistinct
venation, but it is described as consisting of simple lateral veins
at right angles to the midrib ; if this be so, the inclusion of
A. recentior in the synonomy of Weichselia Matitelli is incorrect.
Schenk, from an examination of better material, considers that
Ettingshausen' s fragments must be referred to Lonchopteris, and
admits a difficulty in separating them from the specimens figured
by Brongniart and others as Lonchopteris Mantelli. I prefer to
follow Nathorst's example and consider Ettingshausen's species
synonymous with Weichselia Mantelli.

^ PI. cxxxi. figs. 5 and 5a.

2 Wonders of Geology, vol. i. 1839, p. 371.

118 WEICHSELIA.

In his paper ' on the Klin Sandstone Trautschold founds a
new species, Asplenites Klinensts, for certain specimens of fronds
which, without any doubt, belong to the present species ; his figs.
3 and 4, pi. xx. are less like the ordinary TF. Mantelli forms, and
may be a distinct species, or possibly smaller fronds of the same
species. An inclination of the pinnules, similar to that to which
attention has been drawn in the definition of the species, is noted
in these Russian specimens. In some pinnules, e.g. pi. xx. fig. 7,*
Trautschold represents what he describes as linear projections
covering the lateral veins, and which he regards as sori ; the
venation in this figure is not reticulate, but the fragment is small
and imperfectly preserved ; in the larger specimens no venation is
seen except a well-marked midrib. This author does not accept
the name, Weichselia Ludovicce, Stiehl., applied by Eichwald to the
same specimens which were figured by the former as Asplenites
KlinensiSj Traut. Another of Trautschold' s species, Pecopteris
nigrescens, pi. xix. fig. 4, suggests a large form of pinna of
similar character to W. Mantelli [cf. Murchison's **Eussia,"
pi. G, fig. 3).

Hosius and von der Marck refer some small pieces of pinnae
to Loiichopteris recentior; those on pi. xlii. figs. 176-179^ have
not the stout prominent rachis which is so characteristic of TT.
Jfantelli, and possibly are not correctly referred to that species.
The larger portions of fronds represented in pis. xliii. and xliv.
are exactly of the same form as the specimen (V. 2630) shown in
PI, X. rig. 3 of this Catalogue. I have no hesitation in including
some (pi. xliv. figs. 190 and 191) of the figures of Z. recentior
and of Weichselia Ludovicce (pi. xliii. figs. 187-188) under W.
Mantelli. The frond shown in pi. xliv. fig. 189 * has no rachis
preserved, and the pinnules are longer and narrower than the
undoubted examples of this species given in pi. xliii.

Kenault,* in speaking of Lonchopteris Mantelli, agrees with
Schimper that it may belong to the genus Pteris.

In a recent paper by Nathorst a new name, Weichselia erraticay

1 Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou, vol. xiii. 1S70, p. 21.

* Trautschold, loc. cit.

^ Palffiontographica, vol. xxvi. 1879.

* Hosius and von der Marck, loc. cit.

* Cours bot. foss. vol. iii. p. 167.

WEICHSELIA. 119

is proposed for a plant previously described by Geinitz as an
example of Cladophlebis nehhensis (Brong.). In discussing this species
Nathorst refers to the characteristic position of the pinnules, and
speaks of them as inclined to one another like the wings of a
resting butterfly; it is suggested that possibly this inclination of
the pinnules towards the secondary rachis may be an adaptation
for leading off the rain-water. After noting the reticulated nature
of the venation, he suggests the advisability of retaining the
genus Weichselia for the Lower Cretaceous form of Lonchopteris,
the latter name being retained for such species as occur in the
Coal- Measures.^ One of the ''fertile pinna6 or pinnules" figured
by Kathorst in another paper as Pecopteris Geyleriana, !N"ath.,
I venture to include under Weichselia Mantelli as a terminal
fragment of a pinna. Nathorst also notes this resemblance.'

There is certainly, as Brongniart recognized, a distinct difference
between such species as Lonchopteris Bricii, etc.,^ and L. Mantelli^"'
the former having the same habit as the genus Alethopteris^ but
differing in the reticulate venation.

To emphasize the distinctive characters of the Wealden species,
I have retained Stiehler's generic name in preference to Brong-
niart's genus Lonchopteris.

The form Lonchopteris virginiensis^ Font.,' from the older
Mesozoic strata of Virginia, should be retained in its present
genus, as its affinities seem to be rather with the Palaeozoic
Lonchopteris than with the Lower Cretaceous Weichselia. Stur
considers Fontaine's species to be the same as Speiroearpus
Haherfelnerif Stur, from the Lunz beds.*

V. 2630. PI. X. Fig, 3, and Woodcut, Fig. 12, p. 120. Only a
portion of the specimen shown in the Figure.

This specimen is in striking contrast to the ordinary fragmentary
specimens of the species obtained from English localities. Rachis
18 cm. long, very broad and stout, pinnse alternate, approximate,
of considerable length, the longest 20 cm. The general habit of

1 Arch. Ver. Freund. Nat. Mecklenb. Jalir. xliv, 1890, p. 20.

2 Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. vol Ivii. 1890, p. 49.
' Hist. veg. foss. pi. cxxxi. figs. 2 and 3.

* Ibid. pi. cxxvi. figs. 4-5.

5 U.S. Geol. Surv. Mon. vi. 1883, p. 53, pi. xxviii. figs. 1-2; pi. ixix. figs. 1-4.

« Verh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. No. 10, 1888, p. 7.

120 WEICHSELIA.

the frond is stiff and rigid; the axes of the pinnae are, like the
main rachis, prominent and broad. Pinnules strong and rigid,
inclined to the surface of the slab and to the axes of the pinnae.
Yenation clearly shown in some of the pinnules, e.g. those enlarged
in the woodcut, Fig. 12. Towards the distal ends of the pinnae,
the pinnules become shorter and approach a more triangular or
deltoid form, which is, however, more clearly seen in other
specimens. Compare the figures of fronds by Stiehler, Trautschold,
Hosius and von der Marck, etc.

A somewhat similar habit is seen in Saporta*s figure of Sclero-
pteris Pomelii,^ but the two species are probably in no sense
related. Sussex. Beckles Coll.

Fig. 12 (V. 2630). Piimiilea of Weichselia MantelU (Brong.). Enlarged 4 times.

V. 2630a. Part of a frond showing a wide rachis with pinnae.
Sussex. Beckles Coll.

V. 2173. Fig. 13. Portions of young pinnae, or terminal pieces
of older pinnae showing smaller pinnules about 2-5 mm. in length,
and of a different shape to the full-sized segments. Cf. Stiehler,
Palaeontographica vol. v. pi. xiii. figs. 2ah\ also a fragment
figured by Kathorst in his ^'Beitrage zur mesozoischen Flora

Fio. 13 (V. 2173). Pinirales of Weichselia MantelU (Brong.). Twice nat. size.

Japans," pi. iv. fig. 3, which he describes as possibly part of a
fertile pinna of Pecopteris Geyleriana {= Cladophlehis Dunkeri\
but he recognizes at the same time a resemblance to Weichselia.

1 Pal. Fran9. vol. iv. p. 423, pi. 285, fig. 7, and pi. 286, fig. 2 and figs. 6-7.

WEICHSELIA. 121

V. 2173a. Yery similar to V. 2173.

V. 21733. Fragments of the same form, showing venation.
Ecclesbourne. Mufford Coll.

V. 2174(«. Part of a pinna showing very clearly the charac-
teristic inclined position of the pinnules. Cf. Nathorst, Arch.
Yer. Freund. Kat. Mecklenb. Jahr. xliv. pi. i. figs. 1 and 2.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2614. Fragments of pinnae. In one of the pinnae there is a
gradual decrease in size apparent in the pinnules, the smaller and
more terminal being more or less triangular in form. Cf. Fig. 13
(V. 2173). Sussex. JBecUes Coll.

V. 2618. One of the pinnae shows especially well the venation
of the thick and leathery pinnules. Sussex. Becldes Coll.

V. 2620. An impression of a secondary rachis, showing very
clearly its thick and stiff character. Sussex. Beckles Coll.

V. 2636. Part of a long pinna, about 15 cm. Yenation distinct.
Sussex. Beckles Coll.

12421. A large slab with several fragments of pinnae ; showing
in one comer part of a rachis with lateral axes attached. Hastings.

Mantell Coll.

The following specimens, consisting of portions of pinnae, no doubt
belong to the present species : — V. 26, Hastings, j9wrcAfl55(?c? ; V. 708,
Ecclesbourne, purchased \ V. 2174: Several specimens showing
clearly the reticulately veined pinnules, Ecclesbourne, Bufford
Coll. ; 2832, 2835, 2837, 2838, 10846, Tunbridge Wells, Mantell
Coll.; 51405, purchased 1867; 52942, Ecclesbourne, presented
hy E. H. Peyton, Es^., 1886.

122 TiENlOPTEBIS.

Genus TiENIOPTERIS, Brongniart.
[Prodrome, 1828, p. 61.]

BroDgniart defines the genus Tceniopteris in his **Histoire"
as follows : —

"Eolia simplicia integerrima, nervo medio crasso rigido, ner-
vulis perpendicularibus simplicibus vel basi furcatis. Fructificatio
punctiformis."^

The same author, in his later work,'^ compares the genus with
various recent ferns, and notes the resemblance of some specimens
of Tceniopteris vittata, Brong., to Oleandra; a resemblance which
Schimper has given expression to in the case of some Tseniopteroid
leaves by the adoption of the name Oleandridium.

In Schenk's definition of Tceniopteris, a genus which he places
in the Marattiaeece, it is described as having " Polia petiolata
bipinnata." ^ Saporta, following Brongniart's original diagnosis,
describes the fronds as usually simple, and considerably extends
the generic definition* : —

** Frondes plerumque simplices et tunc petiolo valido instruct83
(rarius pinnatim compositae) elongatae toeniatae lanceolatae vel
lingulatae nervo marginali cinctse ; costa media subtus crassa
semiteres supra plus minusve gracilis; nervi secundarii plurimi
e costa media sub angulo acuto exeuntes mox subito horizontales
numerosissimi simplices vel saepius a basi pluries furcato-dichotomi
usque ad marginem nerviformem recto tramite excurrentes.
Fructificatio adhuc ignota aut punctiformis, soris punctiformibus
totam paginam frondis inferiorem occupantibus."

He remarks that the exact definition of T^niopteris constitutes
one of the difficulties of fossil botany. The above diagnosis is
more comprehensive than the description given by some authors
of the same genus ; the genus Oleandridium of Schenk is included
by Saporta under the provisional and safer name instituted by
Brongniart. Attention is drawn to the Taeniopteroid form which
is occasionally assumed by the genus JVilssonia, Brong. ; but there

1 Hist, veg, foss. p. 262.

2 Tableau, p. 21.

' Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup.-Lias, p. 99.
* Pal. Fraiif. vol. i. 1873, p. 430.

"^

T-ffiNIOPTERIS. 123

are certain distinctive features in the venation of the two genera
which enable us to distinguish them in most instances. Heer's^
figures of Nilssonia orietUalis, Hr., probably represent a Tamoptens;
the apex of the leaf is like that of T. Bei/richn, Schenk, and
the venation corresponds to T. Dawsoni, sp. no v.

The genus Oleandridium was founded by Schimper to include
ferns with ''Frondes simplices, lanceolato-elongatse vel lingulatse,
coriaceaB. Fructificatio Aspidiacearum ? " ^ In Zittel's " Palaeo-
phytologie " ^ this genus is described as differing from Tceniopteris
by its more distinctly horizontal and stronger lateral veins which
end in a marginal vein, and by the longer and more elliptical form
of the leaf. Another writer * speaks of Oleandridium as comprising
those leaves of the nervation type Tceniopieridis which have simple
laminae not pinnately divided.

It is unnecessary to suggest that there is a considerable amount
of confusion and uncertainty about the two genera, Tceniopteris^
Brong., and Oleandridium^ Schimp. The latter name leads one
to suppose some well-established affinity with the genus Oleandra.
If specimens with fructification agreeing with that of the recent
genus are found they might with advantage be so named, but to
designate such a form of leaf, common among fossil ferns and
common in recent genera, by names which imply affinities founded
on external form and venation is utterly misleading. In adopting
Schimper' s genus for a Chinese plant, Schenk^ expressly states
that he does not mean to convey the idea of a relationship with
the recent genus Oleandra, but he makes use of the term Olean-
dridium for the purpose of indicating a probable difference between
the Taeniopteroid ferns from Mesozoic and Palaeozoic rocks.

It has been shown in a suggestive paper by White, ^ that we
have a number of Taeniopteroid leaves, from rocks of different
ages, which may be safely placed in such genera as Danceites
and others suggestive of botanic affinity ; but in the absence of
good evidence, either from fructification on the specimens them-

1 Fl. fo83. Arct. vol. V. pi. iv. figs. 4-9.

2 Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 607.
» Vol. i. p. 133.

* Solras-Laubach, Fossil Botany, p. 136.

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xxxi. 1885, p. 169.

6 Bull. Geol. Soc. America, vol. iv. 1893, p. 123.

124 T-ENIOPTEEIS.

selves, or from the close association of sterile and fertile leaves,
it is much better to retain the ** convenient and non-committal
genus Tmnioplerisy

I propose, therefore, to use the generic term T(Bniopteri8 in
a wider sense, and in this respect to follow Nathorst,^ who has
taken the safer course and included under this genus such other
generic names as Oleandridium, Angiopteridium, Marattiopsis,
Danaopsis, etc. In taking this view I am simply following the
same plan as in the case of other provisional names such as
CladopJilebiSf etc. In dealing with such leaf-forms as come
under the Taeniopteroid type, it is especially important to wait
for trustworthy taxonomic evidence before making use of names
which imply close relationship or identity with existing genera;
the grounds for this caution are to be found in the numerous
recent ferns which have leaves or leaf- segments of the Taenio-
pteroid pattern.*

In Hooker's "Genera Filicum"^ we find the name Taniopteris
applied to a recent fern, T. Forbesii, Hook., from Mozambique.
Following the example of Fee,* Hooker, in his later writings,
includes this genus as a synonym of Vittaria.^

We may broadly define Tceniopteris as follows: — Frond simple
or pinnate, usually lanceolate or linear-lanceolate, apex acute or
occasionally obtusely terminated ; a well-marked midrib from
which lateral veins are given off either at right angles or more
or less obliquely ; these may be unbranched or acutely forked
as they pass towards the leaf margin.

In an allied venation type, Phyllopteris^ Brong., the lateral
veins are much more oblique, more curved, and repeatedly forked.

The task of naming the various fragments of Tceniopteris in
the Museum Collection has proved a difficult one, and, owing to
the meagre nature of the specimens, it is almost impossible to
arrive at any very satisfactory or definite results. In none of
the examples are there any traces of sori, nor have we any
opportunity of obtaining information as to the general habit of
the plants, all the fragments being portions of detached leaves.

1 Sver. Geol. Undersokn. 4to. Flor. Bjuf, 1878-1886.

2 See also Fontaine's species of Anomozamites, Potomac Flora, p. 67.

3 PI. Ixxvi. B.

* Genera Filicum, p. 85.

<* Species Filicum, vol. v. 1864, p. 176.

T2ENI0PTEEIS. 125

If we look over a number of specimens of the recent genus
Oleandra, e.g. 0. neriiformis^ Cav., we find that such characters
as the horizontal or inclined position of the lateral veins and
the degree of closeness with which these veins are arranged,
are by no means constant in the same species, or even in the
same leaf.

In all such examples of the recent genus as I have seen the
apex of the leaf is acuminate, but occasionally in young leaves
there appears to be a similar termination to that in T. Beyrichiiy
Schenk. In some forms of Oleandra the leaf apex becomes
suddenly and sharply acuminate; if the tip of such a leaf were
broken off or bent back we should have an appearance very similar
to that represented in PL IX. Fig. 3 of the present Catalogue.

The following classification of the Wealden fragments must be
regarded as provisional, and not one which rests on a very sure
foundation.

1.— Taeniopteris Beyrichii (Schenk).

1871. Oleandridium Beyrichii, Schenk, Palseontographica, vol, xix. p. 221,

pi. xxix. figs. 6 and 7.
1874. Oleandridium Beyrichii, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii. p. 514.
1882. Oleandridium {T(eniopteris) Beyrichii, Peyton, Quart. Journ. Geol.

Soc. vol. xxxix. 1883, Proc. p. 3.

Type. "Well-preserved leaf. In the Berlin Collection.

Schenk gives the following definition of the species ^ : —

** Polia simplicia oblonga integra obtusa leviter emarginata basi
attenuata, 5-8 millim. lata, 6^ centim. longa, nervi primarii
excurrentes, secundarii creberrimi tenuissimi angulo subrecto
egredientes dichotomi vel simplices."

Frond simple, linear, entire, apex obtuse and slightly depressed,
gradually decreasing in breadth towards the basal end; breadth
about 5 mm. and length about 10 cm. Distinct midrib with
numerous lateral veins almost at right angles, or somewhat oblique,
and suddenly curved inwards towards the frond axis on the upper
surface, simple or forked.

Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 221.

126 T^NIOPTERTS.

I have slightly modified the original diagnosis in one or two
particulars.

Schenk points out that his species is readily distinguished from
otliers by the form of the leaf. There is, however, a fairly close
agreement between T. Beyrichii, Schenk, and some specimens of
T. tenuinerviSf Brauns ; ^ also T. stenoneura, Schenk, as figured
by Saporta,'^ and Tceniopteris {Stangerites) spatulata (McClelland).^

It is extremely difficult to separate many of the forms of
Tceniopteris described by various writers from diff'erent geological
horizons.

In 1882 Peyton recorded the discovery by Mr. Dawson of a
specimen which he referred to Schenk' s species, in the Wadhurst
clay near Hastings. Other specimens were afterwards found by
Peyton himself, who speaks of a slight divergence of the Hastings
specimens from Schenk's figured type. He describes the midrib
as "herring-boned" ; this I regard as descriptive of the branching
outwards of the lateral veins.

V. 2381. PL IX. Pigs. 3 and ^a.

This specimen agrees very closely with Schenk's figure, pi.
xxix. fig. 7,* except that in his specimen the lateral veins are
rather closer together.

Cf. T. {Oleandridium) oMusa, Kath.,®from the Bjuf plant beds,
pi. viii. figs. 7, 9, 10, and 13. It seems almost impossible to
separate such a specimen as Pig. 10, PL YIII. from T. Beyrichii.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2172. Smaller specimen, 4 cm. long, 4 mm. broad ; indented
apex. Practically identical with Schenk's figure. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll,

V. 2177. Small fragments of the same species. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll,

52942^. Yenation not preserved. Possibly a fragment of T.
Beyrichii^ Schenk. Presented hy J. E. H. Peyton, Esq., 1886.

1 Brauns, Palaeontographica, vol. ix. p. 50, pi. xiii. figs. 1-3.

2 Pal. FraiiQ. vol. i. p. 443, pi. Ixii, figs. 2 and 3.

3 Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. i. pt. i. p. 34, pi. vi. figs. 1-7.
* Palseontographica, vol xix.

6 Sver. Geol. Undersokn. 4to. Flor. Bjuf, 1878.

T-SINIOPTEEIS.

127

Tseniopteris Beyrichii (Schenk), var. superba.

The much larger size of some of the specimens and the closer
arrangement of the lateral veins have led me to distinguish them
from T. Beyrichii^ as a definite variety.

Possibly, when better material is discovered, it will be necessary
to separate those larger fronds as a separate species; for the
present the specimens available are hardly sufficiently distinct to
admit of more than a convenient descriptive term, such as var.
superha.

Saporta has already used the same word as a specific title, but
we may use it in this instance in a less precise sense and in-
dicative, at the same time, of a close resemblance to his Jurassic
species, T. superla^ Sap.^

Fig. 14 (V. 2729«). Fragment of a frond of Tceniopteris Beyrichii (Schenk),

var. superba.

V. 2729^. rig. 14.

Thirty-four cm. long ; apparently half of the lamina of a large
simple frond. On one side of the half lamina there is the
remains of a midrib, from which the closely set lateral veins are
given off horizontally. Where small patches of a carbonaceous
film occur on the surface of the specimen one can detect very
fine lines running between, and parallel to, the lateral veins.
Breadth 2*7 cm. at the broadest part. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 711. The prominent midrib represented by a deep groove,
lateral veins closely arranged. Length of specimen 7*5 cm.,
1-2 cm. broad, about the same width as the figured specimen of
T. Beyrichiiy PI. IX. Pig. 3, but the veins are much closer and
more numerous. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2380. Portion of a large frond. Yenation well marked.
Cf. V. 2729« (Fig. 14). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

^ Pal. Fran9. vol. i. pi. Ixii. fig. 1.

128 TJENIOPTEEIS.

2. — Tseniopteris Dawsoni, sp. nov.

Type. Portions of simple fronds. In the British Museum. Fig. 15.

In some of the Tamiopteris specimens from the Sussex beds
there is a form of venation which clearly marks them off from
the previous species. I propose to give expression to this dis-
tinctive character by the institution of a new species named
after Mr. Charles Dawson, whose name is already well known in
connection with Wealden palaBontology.

It is quite possible that this species may eventually have to be
regarded as another variety of T. Beijrichii.

Frond simple, lanceolate, midrib prominent with closely arranged
lateral veins given off at an acute angle and passing straight to the
margin without curving or branching.

The fragment figured by Ettingshausen as T, zoehingiana ^ shows
oblique lateral veins, but these spring from the midrib at a more
acute angle and have a distinctly curved course, thus differing
from T. Dawsoni. As Schenk has pointed out, the fragment on

Fig. 15 (V. 2729). Fragment of frond of Tceniopieris Dawsoni, sp. nov.

which Ettingshausen's species was founded is in all probability
part of a Neuropteris pinnule ; ^ at all events it has little claim to
be placed in the genus Tceniopteris^ and none whatever to represent
a new species.

V. 2729. Woodcut, Fig. 15.

On the same piece of rock there is a specimen showing the
gradually tapering apical portion of a frond.

1 Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, pi. iii. fig. 19.

2 Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 222.

SAGENOPTERIS 129

Lateral veins very regular and numerous. Ko sign of branching.
Cf. Oleandridium Eurychoron, Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xxxi.
1885, p. 168, pi. xiii. figs. 3-5 and pi. xv. fig. 2. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2383. Fragment showing the same type of venation. Fair-
light. Rufford Coll.

Genus SAGENOPTERIS, Presl.

[Sternberg, Flora der Vorwelt, vii. 1838, p. 164.]

The genus is thus defined in Sternberg's Flora : —

** Frons pinnata, pinnis ternatim rarius binatim compositis.
Vense tenuissimse, ramosissimse, aequales, in maculas irregulariter
hexagonoides elongatas confluentes. Costse crassae usque ad apicem
pinnularum excurrentes."

Schimper ^ speaks of Sagenopteris as having no analogue among
living plants, but notes the obvious resemblance to Marsilea ; this,
however, he does not regard as evidence of natural affinity.
Stomata have been found on the lower surface of Sagenopteris^
but, according to Schimper, there are none on the lower surface
of Marsilea leaves.

This argument is dismissed by Kathorst, who has observed
stomata in the lower epidermal layer of Marsilea ; but the fructi-
fication of Sagenopteris has been adduced as stronger evidence than
the mere external resemblance in the leaves of the two plants. The
so-called sporocarps are described by Nathorst ^ as abundant in the
Rhaetic beds near Palsjo ; they cannot be referred to Conifers or
Cycads, and, in the absence of Angiosperms, Nathorst is driven to
regard them as the fructification of a Marsileaceous plant, and,
therefore, of Sagenopteris, as the only genus that can be included
in the Marsileacece. The same conclusion was independently
arrived at by Heer after examining the Swedish specimens.^

^ Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 640.
» Foss. Fl. Schwedens, p. 18.
3 Nathorst, loc. cit. p. 18.

130 BAGENOPTERIS

Similar bodies have also been described by Zigno^ from the
Italian Oolitic strata, but his figures are anything but convincing.
Schimper, in Zittel's "Handbuch,'"^ considers there can scarcely be
a doubt that we must regard Sagenopteris as a genus of the Rhi%o-
cerpete, and very near to Marsilea. As Solms-Laubach ^ has shown,
the arguments on which this reference of Sagempteris to the
Marsileacece is based are far from satisfactory.

The two leaf fragments figured by Feistmantel* from the
Karharbari beds of India as Sagenopteris (?) Stoliczana, Feist.,
have surely very little claim to be included in Presl's genus. We
may define the genus as follows : —

Leaves with long stalk, bearing at the apex four palmately-
placed leaflets ; leaflets vary considerably in shape and size in
the several species and on the same leaf, asymmetrical, linear-
lanceolate, spathulate, ovate, etc. ; venation reticulate, the meshes
elongated in the direction of the long axis of the leaflet ; towards
the basal end of the leaflets there is often a fairly well-defined
midrib which rapidly splits up into a number of anastomosing
branches as it passes towards the apex of the leaflet. Fructi-
fication in the form of oval or spherical bodies bearing sporangia.

Sagenopteris Mantelli (Dunker).

1846. Cyclopteris Mantelli, Dunker, "Wealdenbildung, p. 10, pi. ix. figs. 4
and 5.

1849. Adiantites Mnntelli, Brongrdart, Tableau, p. 107.

1850. Cyclopteris Mantelli, linger, Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 95.

1852. ? Cyclopteris Mantelli (in part), Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol.

Eeichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 13, pi. iii. fig. 15.
1869. Aneimidium Mantelli, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 486.
1871. Sagenopteris Mantelli, Schenk, . Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 222,

pi. xxxi. fig. 5.
1874. Aneimidium Mantelli, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii, p. 486.
1886. ? Thinnfeldia variabilis, Velenovsky, Gymn. bbhm. Kreid. p. 6,

pi. ii. figs. 1-5.
1890. ? Sagenopteris, sp., Yokoyama, Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. p. 38,

pi. X. figs. 3 and 3a.

1 Flor. foss. Oolit. vol. i. p. 186, pi. xx.

3 Vol. i. p. 154.

8 Fossil Botany, p. 182.

* Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. iii. 1881, pt. i. (1879), p. 18, pi. xiii. fig. 4.

SAGENOPTEEIS 131

Type. Detached leaflets of various shapes and sizes.
Dunker defines his species as follows^ : —

*' Cyclop teris fronde .... pinnis crassis subpetiolatis, oblique
cordatis vel cuneato-subrotundis vel ovato-obtusis integris vel sub-
crenatis, nonnullis apice sinuatis et bilotatis, nervis creberrimis
flabellatis apicem versus irregulariter dichotomis."

The Wealden specimens enable us to give a more complete
diagnosis of the species.

Leaf consisting of four leaflets sessile on the apex of the leaf-
stalk, palmately arranged, variable in shape and dimensions, the
two upper or terminal leaflets larger than the lower pair, spathu-
late, obovate or elliptical, margin entire, or with one or two broadly
rounded lobes.

Venation reticulate, the meshes elongated in the direction of
the long axis of the leaf; in some leaflets there is a fairly distinct
midrib near the point of attachment, but it rapidly dies out
towards the apex ; in some specimens no sign of a midrib.
Fructification unknown.

Dunker's figures'^ of detached leaflets, if we accept his view
that they all belong to the same species, sufficiently demonstrate
the wide limits within which their form and size vary.

The small specimens figured by Ettingshausen ^ agree much
more closely with Aneimidium Klipsteini (Dunk.), and, indeed, he
includes that species as a synonym of Sagenopteris Mantelli (Dunk.).
Possibly, as suggested in the above list of synonyms, one of the
leaflets is that of the present species, but it is by no means certain
that any of them should be included under the genus Sagenopteris.
Schenk* points out the close connection between Sagenopteris
Mantelli {J)\mk.) and S. rhoifolia, Presl; it seems, indeed, almost
impossible to draw any distinct line between these two species.
As a rule the leaflets of the former are smaller and less elliptical
or elongated than those of the latter, but it is quite conceivable
that the discovery of more Wealden specimens may compel us
to recognize more definitely this close agreement between the
two forms.

1 "Wealdenbildung, p, 10.

* Loc. cit. pi. ix. fig. 4.

2 Abh. k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. i. Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 13.

* Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 223.

132 SAGENOPTEBIS

In Velenovsky's contribution to our knowledge of the Gymno-
sperms of the Bohemian Chalk formation there are several figures
of what he calls Thinnfeldia variabilis, Vel. ; the characters dis-
played by this species appear to me identical with those of the
larger leaflets of Sagenopteris Mantelli. There is the same
venation, the same form of leaflet, and an equally marked
variation in shape and size: cf. Velenovsky's figures^ and PI. IX.
Figs. 4 and 5 of this Catalogue.

"Why the genus Thinnfeldia, Ett., should have been chosen is
a question not readily answered ; no mention is made of a resem-
blance to Sagenopteris, and there is a great dearth of references
and synonomy, which is apparently not unusual in this author's
palseobotanical contributions. The definition given of this
Bohemian species, which is classed under the Gymnosperms as
** species incertae sedis," describes correctly the characters of
Sagenopteris Mantelli leaflets. The species is compared to Thinn-
feldia Lesquereuxiana, Heer;^ but this Greenland fossil has quite
a different form, it shows a distinct midrib, and has no reticulate
venation : the connection is not obvious.

Hosius and Von der Marck^ have figured a leaflet of Sagenopteris
from the Neocomian Sandstone of the Teutoberger Wald under the
name S. Neocomiensis, Hos. and Y. d. Marck ; this species closely
resembles S. Mantelli^ and differs only in having a more distinct
midrib.

A single leaflet from the Damuda series of India * also shows a
close resemblance to the Wealden form ; Feistmantel compares
it to Sagenopteris rhoifolia, Presl. It is exceedingly difficult to
arrive at any satisfactory results as to the limitation of the specific
forms of Sagenopteris.

I have ventured to include under the "Wealden species the
Japanese fragments described by Yokoyama, as there are no
apparent differences which suggest specific distinction.

A new species has been recorded from Bornholm under the name
S. Nathorsti, Barth.; there is a resemblance worthy of note between
Bartholni's fig. 9, pi. v.^ and the lowest, broadly-lobed leaflet on
the left-hand edge of Bunker's fig. 4, pi. ix.

' Gymn. bblim. Kreid. pi ii, figs. 1-5.

2 Fl. foss. Arct. vol. vi. pi. xliv. figs. 9-10.

' Palseontographica, vol. xxvi. 1878, p. 210, pi. xliv. fig. 194.

* Feistmantel, Foss. Fl. Gond. vol. iii. 1881, p. 114, pi. xliia. fig. 2.

» Bot. Tid. Bot. For. Kjovenhavn, 1892.

SAGENOPTEEIS l33

V. 2272. PI. IX. rig. 4.

Pive leaflets are shown in this specimen, but the middle one
of the upper three projects beyond the others, and its median
line lies somewhat across those of the four palmately-placed
segments. There is a distinct indication of the upper end of the
leaf-stalk. In some of the leaflets the venation is feebly indicated,
but in all of them there is an obvious median groove which
becomes more distinct towards the point of attachment.

This apparent midrib is not nearly so distinct in V. 2353, PI. IX.
Fig. 5, and, indeed, were the latter the only available specimen,
one would describe the leaflets as without a median vein. The
midrib seems to be best represented in those specimens where
there is some carbonaceous material on the surface; it appears as
a median depression widening towards the base. Cf. Sagenopieris
rhnifolia, Presl, var. elongata, Braun., and S. rhoifolia^ Presl,
var. pusilla, Braun., as represented by Schenk in his ** Poss.
Flor. Grenz.," pi. xii. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2353. PI. IX. Fig. 5.

In this leaflet the venation is particularly clear; there is no
distinct indication of a midrib. Cf. Yelenovsky, loc. cit. pi. ii.
figs. 1-5 ; also Zigno, Flor. foss. Oolit. vol. i. pi. xxi. fig. 1^.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2300. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2353<7. Large leaflets. Cf. Schenk,* pi. xxxi. fig. 5, and
Dunker,^ pi. ix. fig. 5.

V. 2353^. These leaflets agree in shape and in the form of the
venation with V. 2353 (PI. IX. Fig. 5) ; there is a more distinct
indication here of a median depression, owing, probably, to the
fact that carbonaceous matter is present in this specimen.

V. 2353(7. Two leaflets ; in the smaller spathulate one very
good venation.

V. 2353<?. A small leaflet like the two lowest in Fig. 4, PL IX.
(V. 2272). Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

* Palaeontographica, vol. xix.

* Wealdenbildung.

134 MICRODICTYON"

V. 2381. A triangular apical portion of a pointed leaflet. The
apex seems to vary considerably in form ; it may be either pointed
or distinctly obtuse. Ecclesboume. Rufford Coll.

? V. 2735. Here are two small leaflets which should possibly
be included in this species; on the same specimen is a piece
of ?stem structure, with which one of the leaflets is in close
contiguity, suggesting a pinnule attached to a rachis. There
is, however, no clear evidence of such attachment, and I prefer
to regard the juxtaposition as one of the many misleading accidents
of fossilization. Midrib more distinct than in most specimens of
S. Mantelli. Ecclesboume. . Rufford Coll.

Genus MICRODICTYON, Saporta.
[Pal. Fran9. 1873, Plantes Jurassiques, vol. i. p. 306.]

This genus was founded by Saporta for the inclusion of certain
Jurassic ferns which did not conform in all points to the existing
genera Phlehopteris and Thaumatopteris, with which they closely
corresponded in general habit. The chief characteristics of the
genus are the reticulately disposed lateral veins between the
stouter lateral branches, which are given off at right angles to the
midrib, also the occurrence of a single row of son on each side of
the midrib. From Phlehopteris Saporta's genus is distinguished by
the network of fine veins in the large areolee between the stronger
lateral veins, and from Thaumatopteris by the more regularly-
placed and fewer sori. The genus is referred to the tribe
Rolypodiea.

*Trons pinnata vel saltem frondis segmenta pinnatipartita,
pinnis linearibus elongatis ; nervi e costa primaria pinnularum orti
sub angulo aperto emissi, dein arcuatim conjuncti, arcolas secus
nervum medium seriatas efformantes, intus reticulum sorosque
rotundos puncto medio solitarie affixes includentes, extus venulas
pluries furcato-di visas inter seque varie anastomosatas marginem
usque integerrimum emittentes." ^

^ Saporta, Pal. Fran9. vol. i. p. 306.

MICEODICTTON 135

Microdictyon Dunkeri (Schenk).

1870. Pecopteris decipiens, Trautschold, Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moacou,

vol. iii. p. 29, pi. xix. fig. 5.

1871. Laecopteris Dunkeri, Schenk, Palaeontographica, xix. p. 219, pi. xxix.

figs. 3-5.
1874. Laecopteris Dunkeri, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. iii. p. 506.

Schenk, Palaeontograpliica, xxiii. p. 161.

_...,......._ i f

1875. \ PI. xxvii. fig. 10.

Phlehopteris Dunkeri

Microdictyon Dunkeri y pj ^^^.^ ^^^^ ^^^ 1^^^ l^j^ ^^^

1878. Laecopteris Dunkeri, Hosius and von der Marck, Palaeontographica,

xxvi. p. 208, xliv. fig. 192 and 193.
1888. Laecopteris Dunkeri, Velenovsky, Abh. k. bolini. Ges. "Wiss. p. 12,

pi. ii. figs. 3-7.

Type. Small pieces of leaves showing fertile segments. Originals
in the Collections of Berlin and Gottingen.

Schenk defines the species as : ''folia .... ? segmenta pinnati-
fida, laciniae e basi latiore lineares sinu lato rotundato remotae
integrae patentissimae obtusae basi 5-6 mm. lato, sori biseriales
rotundi, sporangia receptaculo centrali affixa, nervi primarii validi,
secundarii angulo acuto egredientes dichotomi, ramuli repetito-
dichotomi." ^

In a later description of the same species Schenk expands this
definition, and we may adopt his amplified diagnosis as affording
an accurate description, so far as the imperfect material allows'^: —

Leaf-segments deeply pinnatifid, the lobes entire, at right angles
to the rachis, linear, obtuse, approximate; midrib strong, secondary
veins given off at a right angle, and forming large meshes which
are occupied by a reticulum of smaller veins.

Sori circular, in two rows, without indusia ; sporangia eight to
ten, vertical incomplete annulus ; spores tetrahedral.

The figure of Pecopteris decipiens, Traut., represents a small piece
of a leaf-segment with the long straight divisions characteristic of
Microdictyon Dunkeri (Schenk). Some of these show traces of the
sori. There are no indications of any characters which would justify
the retention of Trautschold's species. The volume of the I^ouv.
Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou in which Trautschold's paper is published
has the date 1876, but the paper wrapper of a reprint in ray

* Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 219.
2 Ibid. vol. xxiii. p. 161.

136 MICBODICTTOX

possession bears the date 1870, the title page being dated 1871 ;
according to the reprint, therefore, we ought to regard Traut-
schold's species as having priority over Schenk's. Considering
the better material and much more complete diagnosis given by
Schenk, I propose to retain his name, in spite of the possible
priority of the Russian species.

Scheuk, in his first notice of Microdictyon Bunkeri^ compares it
to Laccopteris elegans, Presl, of Rhaetic age ; in his second paper it
is transferred to Saporta's genus, and much new information is
added with regard to the fructification. He considers that the
fragments are most probably part of a palmately-divided leaf,
and agrees with Saporta that Microdictyon comes nearest to certain
species of the recent genus Polypodium}

The smaller form from Portugal, named by Heer Laccopteris
pulchellay^ is admitted by the author of the species to bear a close
resemblance to L. DunTceri, but it is separated on account of the
difierence in size of the ultimate segments, and for some other
reasons, the force of which is not very clear. It is not improbable
that we might be right in including Heer's species in the list
of synonyms, but, considering the imperfections of the type speci-
men of L. pulcJiella, it is better, perhaps, to retain this additional
specific name.

From the Cretaceous plant beds of Bohemia Velenovsky describes
some larger specimens than have been accessible to earlier writers;
they resemble in all points the smaller pieces figured by Schenk.
The aflSnity of the plant is discussed, and the two genera Gleichenia
and Cyathea ^ are chosen as the most likely living ferns with which
the fossil form must be compared ; this comparison is founded on
the character of the sori, but Yelenovsky's specimens showed no
trace of the individual sporangia. He does not mention Schenk's
figures and descriptions of well-preserved fertile segments, although
the volume in which the Bohemian ferns are described bears the date
1888, twelve years later than the publication of Schenk's memoir.

In Andrae's account^ of the plants from the ''Liassic" beds
of Steierdorf there are several figures of Andriania haruthina,
Pr. Braun, which are exactly similar in habit to Microdictyon

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii. p. 162.

2 Secc. Trab. Geol. Portugal, 1881, p. 16, pi. xv. fig. 7.

3 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. 1888, p. 13.

* Abh. k.-k. geol. Iteichs. vol. ii. Abth. iii. No. 4, p. 36, pi. vii. figs. 1-3.

MICEODICTTOX 137

Dunkeri (Schenk), but the venation, as shown in an enlarged
pinnule, readily distinguishes this genus from the Microdictyon
type. The specimen represented in fig. 1, pi. vii. of Andrae
shows the basal ends of six pinnse attached to the summit of a
short rachis, suggesting a close connection, as regards habit, with
Matonidium. Schenk's figures of Laccopteris Munsteri clearly
demonstrate the form of frond characteristic of this class of ferns.

The figures of Carolopteris aquensis, Deb. and Ett., show a
type of venation which appears to conform exactly to that of
Microdictyon, and the habit is equally similar. Possibly C. aquensis
is identical with M. Dunkeri; it is certainly very similar, and
without doubt should be removed to Saporta's genus. The second
species, C. asplenioides, shows a different venation.

This genus is thus defined by Debey and Ettingshausen ^ : —

"Erons pinnata (v. hi- v. pluries-pinnata). Venae ramosissimae,
ad costas medianas in areolas polygonas confluentes, marginem
versus simplices v. furcatae. Sori ad costam medianam biseriales,
magni, orbiculares, globoso-depressi, areolis majoribus, venis
reticulatis circumscriptis tectisque insidentes, indusiati, apice
orbiculatim dehiscent."

This definition is very similar to Saporta's diagnosis of Micro-

Specimen without Registered Numher. Eachis 5*5 cm. long.
Ultimate segments show no details of venation ; they are alternate,
linear and of uniform breadth. On each side of the midrib occur
distinct round projections, the regularly-placed sori characteristic
of Microdictyon. In coarse quartzose sandstone. Cf. Schenk,
Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii. pi. xxvii. fig. 10, and pi. xxviii.
fig. 11.

V. 719. No details shown. Sori indicated by depressions in the
rock surface. Heathfield. Purchased.

V. 2214. Probably the same species, but venation hardly visible.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford ColL

V. 2199 and V. 2298. Fragments. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.
52942a. Fragment. Ecclesbourne.

Presented hy J. F. H. Peyton, Esq,

1 Denkschr. k. Ak. Wiss. math.-nat. CI. 1859, vol. xvii. p. 206, pi. iii.

138 DICTTOPHTLLXJM

Genus DICT YOPHYLLTJM, Lindley and Hutton.
[Fossil Flora, vol. ii. 1833-35, pi. civ. p. 66.]

This generic name was proposed by Lindley and Hutton for a
plant originally described by Phillips from the Upper Sandstone
and Shale of the Yorkshire Oolite ; these authors describe the type
specimen, JDictyophyllum rugosum, as a ''pinnatifid leaf belonging
to some exogenous plant." The older name, Phyllites, having been
"taken as the receptacle of all sorts of leaves," the new one,
Dictyophyllum, is proposed for ''doubtful Dicotyledonous leaves of
common reticulated structure." ^ Subsequent writers have retained
the proposed name, although the discovery of sori on leaves with
distinct Dictyophyllum characters has necessitated an entirely new
definition of the genus.

The few fragments in the "Wealden Collection add nothing to
our knowledge of this fern, for which we are chiefly indebted to
Schenk ; we may, therefore, adopt his definition of the genus "^ : —

" Folia sterilia et fertilia conformia pedato-pinnata, laciniae
pinnatifidse. Nervi primarii radiantes, secundarii angulo recto
egredientes excurrentes apice in rete soluti, tertiarii angulo recto
egredientes maculas insequaliter hexagonales formantes pluri-
seriales, costales majores, reliquse minores, omnes appendicibus
anastomosantibus in maculas parvas partiti. Sori per totam
paginam folii inferiorera sparsi, rotundi, sporangia pauca annulo
multiarticulato instructa, sporae tetraedricae globosae."

Schimper,' Saporta,* and others include this genus with other
closely allied forms in the family Bictyopteride^.

Saporta, in the first volume of his " Plantes Jurassiques,"
discusses the points of difference between Dictyophyllum, Thaumato-
pteris, and Clathropteris ', these differences depend chiefly on the
form of the frond segments and the details of venation. In dealing
with small pieces of a frond it is not always easy to decide which
genus should be chosen. Clathropteris is, in most cases, readily
distinguished by the rectangular nature of the venation, but in a

^ Fobs. Flor. vol. ii. p. 66.

2 Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup. Lias, p. 75.

3 Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 617.
* Pal. Fran9. vol. i. p. 325.

DICTTOPHTLLUM 139

fragment of Clathropteris Munstenana, Schenk, enlarged by Schenk
from the lower portion of a large frond, the venation becomes very-
similar to the Bictyophyllum type.

In Nathorst's description of the genus* attention is drawn to
the extreme variability of the species, and the consequent difficulty
of determining specific and variety limits.

Schenk, in Zittel's ''Handbuch der Palaeontologie,'"' includes
Goppert's genus Thaumatopteris under the generic term Bictyo-
phyllum. Bartholni,^ in a recent contribution to the fossil flora
of Bornholm, has referred certain specimens to Sausmannia,
Dunk., which I am inclined to regard as Bictyophyllum fronds.
This author considers that Dunker's genus should be retained
for certain forms of reticulately veined leaves; his figures of
leaf fragments sufficiently demonstrate the great variation in
the form of the lamina of such leaves. Bartholni's figures of
Uaumiannia Forchhammeri, Earth.,* agree closely with those of
a. dichotoma as given by Dunker* and Schenk®; in the description
of the Bornholm fossils no reference is made to this close resem-
blance to Schenk's l^Torth German specimens. So far as it is
possible to base any definite opinion on such small specimens
as those in the British Museum Collection, it is very probable
that Hausmannia Forchhammeri, Barth., and Bictyophyllum
Roemeri, Schenk, may be the same plant. The nature of
Dunker's genus, Hausmannia,'' is far from clear ; in the
*' Wealdenbildung" the type specimen of this genus is figured,
but unfortunately there is no detailed description or drawing
of the venation. In habit the plant may be compared to Bic-
tyophyllum acutilolum,^ Schenk, from which it is distinguished
by the longer and narrower segments. Schenk makes use of this
doubtful genus for some small fragments found in the l^orth
German Wealden rocks,^ but his figures are by no means con-

1 Fosg. Fl. Schwedens, p. 13.

2 Vol. i. p. 138.

3 Bot. Tids. Bot. For. Kjovenhavii, vol. xviii. Heft i. 1892, p. 26.
* Loc. cit. pi. xi. figs. i-Q ; pi. xii. figs. 1-3.

^ Wealdenbildung, pi. v. fig. 1.

^ Palaeontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxix. figs. 8 and 9 ; pi. xxxi. fig. 3.

"^ Wealdenbildung, p. 12.

8 Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup. Lias, pi. xx.

^ Palseontographica, vol. xix. p. 223, pi. xxix. figs. 8 and 9.

140 DICTTOPHYLLUM

elusive as regards the claim of Bunker's generic title to be
retained. I expect that the discovery of more perfect examples
of what Dunker designated Hausmannia may lead to the con-
clusion that this genus represents a form of Didyophyllum. A
comparison of Schenk's figures of Hausmannia dichotoma, Dunk.,
and Nathorst's oiBictyophyllum Nilssoni, Brong.,War. intermedium,
in his "Flora of Sweden," is very suggestive of the generic identity
of the two species.

Dictyophyllum Roemeri, Schenk.

1871. Dictyophyllum Roemeri, Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 224,

pi. xxxi. fig. 3.
1892. ? Hausmannia Forchhammeri, Bartholni, Bot. Tids. Bot. For.

Kjorenhavn, vol. xviii. Heft i. p. 26, pi. xi. figs. 4 and 4a.

Type. Small sterile portion of a frond. In the University of
"Wiirzburg Collection.

Schenk defines this species as follows : —

*' Folia . . . ? lacinise margine crenate, crenae integrae, nervi
primarii validi, secundarii angulo recto egredientes, rami et
ramuli in rete areas irregulariter polygonas formantes conjuncti."
In the fragments from the Sussex Wealden the sori are fairly
clearly shown.

Habit of the complete frond unknown ; the lamina traversed by
strong palmately-disposed veins which probably constitute the
central axes of the leaf segments.

The secondary veins form a reticulate structure, and in the larger
meshes there are smaller reticulate branches; the sori scattered
on the lower surface of the leaf; in some of these the sporangia
appear to have a fairly regular arrangement in groups of four or
more round a common centre.

Schenk was the first to record this genus of the Dictyopteridece
from Wealden rocks; the present species repeats such characters
as are more distinctly shown in the much more perfect and larger
fronds found in Rhaetic and Jurassic strata. So far as the nature
of the species is indicated by the few specimens from German
and English beds, it appears to agree with Didyophyllum

» PI. iv. fig. 8.

DICTTOPHTLLTJM 141

aeutilobum,^ Schenk, in its venation and the arrangement of the
sori. A similar regular disposition of sporangia is shown in Heer's
Lower Cretaceous species from Greenland, D. Dichsoni,'^ Hr.

Fig. 16 (V. 21775). Dictyophyllum Roemeri. Twice natural size.

V. 21775. Fig. 16.

A small piece of a frond showing portions of three chief veins
and, between them, a reticulum of smaller veins. In the meshes
of the finer veins there occur small depressions which probably
represent sporangia ; here and there these appear to have a fairly-
regular arrangement. Cf. Dictyophyllum Dichsoni, Heer, Fl. foss.
Arct. vol. iii. pi. iii. figs. 9 and 9i, 9c and 9<?.

In this specimen the finer reticulation is not nearly so apparent
as in Schenk's figure, but, in the absence of more satisfactory
evidence, I prefer to adopt his specific name, although possibly
more perfect material may show that the English specimens belong
to a separate species. Cf. also some of the figures of Sausmannia
Forchhammeri, Earth., e.g. pi. xi. figs. 4 and ^a.^ Ecclesbourne.

Eufford Coll.

V. 2177. A similar fragment to V. 21775. Traces of sporangial
depressions in some of the meshes.

Fig. 17 (V. 2177«). Dictyophyllum Roemeri. Twice natural size.

V. 2177^. Fig. 17.

Small piece of leaf showing the venation very clearly, as a
carbonaceous reticulum. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

^ Fl. foss. Grenz. Keup. Lias, pi. xx.
* Flor. foss. Arct. vol. iii. pi. iii. fig. 9.
' Bartholni, loe. eit.

142 PHTLLOPTEEIS

V. 2353. Small piece with carbonaceous substance preserved;
shows an nnevenly-lobed margin. In the venation areolae occur
oval or roundish projections, probably sori. Cf. Schenk's figure of
Hausmannia dichotoma, Dunk., also Nathorst's enlarged drawing
of Dictyophylluni NiUsonif Brong., var. intermedium} Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2815. On one of these specimens is a broad vein from which
secondary branches are given off at right angles, and the spaces
between are traversed by a network of finer veins. Length of
fragment 3'5 cm. ; intervals between the large secondary branches
2 mm. Cf. Hausmannia dichotoma^^ Dunker, and Schenk's figure
of Bictyophyllum Roemeri^^ Schenk. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

Genus PHYLLOPTERIS, Brongniart.
[Tableau, 1849, p. 22.]

Brongniart proposed this new genus for certain forms of leaves
previously referred to Glossopteris and Tceniopteris, but which differ
from these two genera in the character of their venation. The
leaflets included in this genus are considered by Brongniart to
belong to pinnate or digitate fronds, more or less lanceolate or
linear in shape, with well-marked midrib, and very oblique
dichotomously branched veins which do not anastomose to form
a reticulum. Glossopteris Phillipsii, Brong., is one of the plants
included under Phyllopteris ; it is pointed out that Phillips' figure *
incorrectly represents the venation as reticulate, also that the
plant described and figured by Lindley and Hutton as Glossopteris
JPhillipsii^ is a true Sagenopteris.

Zigno^ and Saporta'' adopt Brongniart's genus, and the latter

1 Foss. n. Schwedens, pi. iv. fig. 8.

* "Wealdenbildung, pi. v. fig. 1.

3 Palgeontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxxi. fig. 3.

* Geol. Yorks. 1875, pi. viii. fig. 8.
5 Foss. Flor. vol. i. pi. Ixiii.

« Flor. foss. OoHt. vol. i. p. 166.
' Pal. Fran9. vol. i. p. 448.

PHTLLOPTEEIS 143

notes the absence of anastomosing venation as a departure from
the Glossopteris leaf, and the oblique course of the secondary
veins as a means of distinguishing it from Tceniopteria. Saporta's
diagnosis differs but little from the earlier description by
Brongniart : —

'* Frondes vel pinnae frondium plus minusve lanceolatae, margine
integerrimge, nervo medio sursum attenuate instructae ; nervis
secundariis costa media egredientibus, oblique decurrentibus,
curvatis, pluries furcato-ramosis nee inter se anastomosatis."

Phyllopteris acutifolia, sp. no v.

Type. Imperfect leaflets. In the British Museum. PI. IX. Fig. 6.

Leaflets linear- or ovate-lanceolate, tapering at the lower end
into a short stalk; midrib very distinct in the lower half, but
gradually becoming less conspicuous towards the apical portion;
lateral veins given off obliquely, and frequently dichotomizing
as they curve towards the entire margin of the leaflet.

In the best specimen of this species shown in PL IX. Fig. 6,
we have an imperfect example of a single leaflet, which in shape
agrees fairly closely with Phyllopteris Phillipsii^ Brong., from the
Middle Sandstone and (Shale of East Yorkshire. Phillips described
this Yorkshire fossil as having anastomosing veins, but, as already
noted, Brongniart does not admit such anastomosis and places
the specimens in a genus characterized by the absence of reticulate
veins. ^

Nathorst has recorded certain leaflets from Sweden which may
be compared, as regards shape and venation, with the present
species, e.g. ThinnfeUia rhomhoidalis, Ett., ? Sagenopteria undulata,
Nath., as represented in pi. xix. fig. 2 of the ''Floran vid Bjuf '"^
and in pi. ii. fig. 3 of the '*Floran vid Hoganas."^ This latter
species should be compared with S. angustifolia, Zig. Nathorst's*
fig. 2, pi. xix. and Zigno's figs, in pi. xx. Flor. foss. Oolit. are

1 See remarks on Glossopteris Phillipsii by Bunbury, Quart. Joum. Geol. Soc.
vol. vii. 1851, p. 184.

2 Sver. Geol. Undersokn. 4to. 1878.
» Ibid. 1878.

* Ibid. 1886.

144 PHTLLOPTEBIS

almost identical. A similar form of leaflet has been described by
Dr. H. Woodward ^ from Mount Adams in South Australia, but the
original specimen of the figure which he gives is an imperfectly
preserved impression on sandstone, and shows no venation except
an indication of a midrib ; the clearly cut and numerous lateral
lines of the woodcut are evidently the engraver's vein-like
shading. Compare also the fragments referred by Newberry to
the genus Chiropteris from the Kootanie beds of Montana.*

From such specimens as occur in the National Collection it is
impossible to arrive at any satisfactory conclusion as to the real
nature of the species. The name assigned to it is rather for
purposes of convenient reference than intended to convey the
idea of a well-defined specific type.

V. 2816. PI. IX. Fig. 6.

A single leaflet with an apparently truncated apex, due no
doubt to tearing. Yeins fairly distinct as black curving lines on
the brown impression of the lamina. No signs of reticulation
noticed. Length 3 cm., somewhat ovate-lanceolate in form. On
the same piece of rock is a fragment of what appears to be the
short stalk of a leaflet. This specimen comes very near to Chiro-
pteris spatulata, Newb.,'* from the Kootanie group of Montana.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2344. Probably the same species, in spite of certain diff'erences
in size and shape. The venation is of the same Phyllopteris
type ; in this specimen the apical part is preserved and shows the
lanceolate termination of the leaflet. Cf. Nathorst, pi. xix. fig. 2,
Sagenopteris undulata, Nath., Floran vid Bjuf, Haft iii. 1886.
Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

1 Geol. Mag. dec. iii. vol. ii. 1885, p. 289.

2 Amer. Journ. vol. xli. 1891, pp. 198-199.

3 Ibid. pi. xiv. figs. 1 and 2.

NATHOESTIA. 145

Genus NATHORSTIA, gen. nov.

I propose to institute a new provisional genus of ferns for
the reception of certain specimens from the English Wealden,
which do not conform to the definitions of any known fossil
genera ; and, as some slight testimony to the palaeobotanical
labours of Dr. I^athorst, I have ventured to name the plants
after him.

It will be seen that the specimens included under this genus
are imperfectly preserved frond fragments, and of such a kind
that it is impossible to arrive at any very satisfactory conclusion
as to their real nature.

Two of the pieces are shown in PL YII. Fig. 5 and PL IX.
Fig. 2; these at first sight suggest portions of distinct species,
and at first I regarded them as such.

On more careful examination, however, and after comparison
with other specimens, the differences become less pronounced and
seem to be rather apparent than real.

In the absence of venation and fructification it is useless to
attempt a formal diagnosis of the genus; the characters will be
most conveniently indicated in the definition of the single species.

Nathorstia valdensis, gen. et sp. nov.

1871. ? Fecopteris Geintlzu, Schenk (in part), Palaeontographica, vol. xix.
p. 215, pi. xxix. figs. 2 and 2a.

Type. Portions of sterile fronds. British Museum. PL VII.
Fig. 5. ; PL IX. Figs. 2 and 2a.

Frond bipinnate (?), of slender habit, rachis thin but well
marked; pinnae alternate or subopposite, long and of uniform
breadth; the small pinnules attached by the whole of the base,
margin entire or very slightly lobed, subdeltoid in shape, apex
obtuse ; some of the pinnules show faint traces of a midrib, but
no lateral veins. Fructification unknown.

The specimen figured by Schenk from the neighbourhood of
Hannover as Pecopteris Geinitzii, Dunk., can hardly be referred
to that species as figured by Dunker.^ On the whole it seems

1 Wealdenbildung, pi. viii. fig. 3.

146 NATHORSTIA.

probable that Scbenk's specimen may be identical with the Sussex
examples referred to Nathorstia. It not infrequently happens that
the same specific and generic names have been used for Palaeozoic
and Mesozoic ferns, which have no resemblance to one another ;
and this confusion no doubt arises from the choice of terms for
new species from one geological horizon, without sufficiently
considering the names already in use for plants of a different
age. An instance of this is afforded by Pecopteris Geinitzii,
Dunk.; this name was instituted by Dunker' in 1846 for some
specimens of Wealden fern fronds from Northern Germany; in
1849 Gutbier^ makes use of the same name, apparently without
knowledge of its previous existence, for some Permian specimens
from Saxony. Gutbier's species is retained in Sterzel's recent
Monograph on ** Die Flora des Eothliegenden im plauenschen
Grunde bei Dresden," ^ but, in view of the priority of Dunker's
application of the specific name, some new term should be sub-
stituted in the case of Gutbier's Permian plant. Schimper*
includes Gutbier's species under Pecopteris {Cyath.) pinnatifida,
(Gutb.), Gein. Some of the pinnules in the pinnae figured by
Schenk appear to show venation, but there is not sufficient
evidence in favour of the identity of his specimen with those
from the English Wealden to warrant our acceptance of the
venation characters as characteristic of Nathorstia valdensis. If
specimens are found which are clearly of the same species as those
represented in PL YII. Fig. 5 and PI. IX. Fig. 2, and show distinct
venation of a type characteristic of some existing provisional genus,
then the name Nathorstia must be abandoned.

There is a certain resemblance between the present species and
Alethopteris cycadina, Schenk, as figured in pi. xxvi. fig. 6,
Palaeontographica, vol. xxiii; but the agreement is very slight,
and the earlier figure of the same species by Schenk ^ represents an
entirely different plant to Nathorstia valdensis.

* "Wealdenbildung, p. 6.

2 Die Verstein. Roth. Sachsen. 1849, p. 16, pi. ii. fig. 10 ; pi. ix.
pi. xi. figs. 5-6.

3 Abh. math.-phys. CI. k. Sachs. Ges, Wiss. vol. xix. 1893.

* Trait, pal. veg. vol. i. p. 507.

' Palajontographica, vol. xix. pi. xxxi, fig. 2.

NATHOESTIA. 147

V. 2376. PL IX. Eigs. 2 and 2a.

The specimen suggests either a delicate and graceful type of
frond or large pinna, or a young condition of a more robust form.
ISo venation is seen, except a slight trace of a midrib in some of
the pinnules, e g. Fig. 2a. Some of the smaller specimens referred
to Cladophlehis Dunheri (Schenk) have a certain resemblance to
the upper pinnae of this species, but the likeness is probably
only superficial. The single pinna at * in Fig. 2, PL IX. agrees
very closely with the pinnae of PL VII. Fig. 5. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

V. 2809. PL YII. Fig. 5.

This specimen, 4 cm. in length, differs from V. 2376 (PL IX.

Fig. 2) chiefly in the closer arrangement and stiff er habit of the
pinnae, and in the smaller size of the pinnules. The lowest pinna
on the right-hand side of Fig. 5 agrees with those on the left side
of the rachis and close to the apex of PL IX. Fig. 2. The matrix
is different in the two figured specimens, and this fact alone is
often sufficient to account for apparent differences in form.

Several of the pinnules have lobed margins like those of PL IX.
Fig. 2«, and here and there a midrib is indicated.

I was at first inclined to refer this fragment to Goppert's genus
Gleichenites,^ which includes several species from Mesozoic plant-
bearing beds ; but the small and incomplete nature of the material
would hardly justify the choice of such a generic term in the
absence of any definite evidence of a Gleichenia habit or fructi-
fication.

Cf. Gleichenia micromera, Heer,^ also Pecopteris {Gleichenites)
gleichenoides, 0. and M.,^ Trautschold's figures of what he calls
Asplenites Klinensis,^ and Gleichenia multinervosa,^ Vel. Eccles-
bourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2173 and V. 2219. Fragments of apical pinnae : cf. PL IX.
Fig. 2 (V. 2376), and the tips of the pinnae of V. 2809, PL YII.
Fig. 5. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

» Foss. Farrnkrt. 1836, p. 181.

^ Flor. foss. Arct. vol. iii. pi. x.

3 Tal. Ind. pt. i. 1863, vol. i. 1880, pi. xxv.

* Nouv. Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou, vol. xiii. 1876, pi. xx. figs. 2 and 4.

6 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg. vol. ii. 1888, pi. iii. figs. 1 and 2.

148 TEMPSZrA.

V. 2299. Small fragment of pinna. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2345 and V. 2345^. Small piece of rachis with a few pinnae ;
somewhat intermediate in form between PI. IX. Fig. 2 and PL VII.
Fig. 5. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2375. A single pinna, 3*6 cm. long, of uniform breadth;
pinnules show faint traces of venation which may possibly be of
the Cladophlehis type ; there is the same wavy or slightly-lobed
margin as in PI. YII. Fig. 5 (V. 2809). Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

Genus TEMPSKYA, Corda.

[Flor. Vorwelt, 1845, p. 81.]

Corda proposed this term for four specimens of fossil ferns dis-
covered by Tempsky.

He included the genus in the family Phthoropterides, and defined
it as follows : —

''Truncus .... Rhachis rotundata, plicata vel alata, cortice
crassiuscula, fasciculis vasorum ternatis, majori clauso vel lunulato
et supra incurve, minoribus oppositis lunulatis. Radices minutae
numerosissimae ; fascicule vasorum centrali unico."

The older name Endogenites^ used by Sprengel ^ and Brongniart ^
in 1828, was chosen by Stokes and Webb ^ for Mantell's specimens,
which have since been referred to Corda's genus, as expressive of
their opinion that the fossils were pieces of some Xonocotyledonous
stem. Mr. Starkie Gardner* in alluding to certain examples of
** EndogeniteB " in the British Museum, to which Man tell probably
referred in his remarks on Monocotyledonous stems in the English
"Wealden, speaks of them as "of course Cycadeous." If he
refers to the common form of Endogenites erosa, there can be no
question of Cycadean afiinity ; the structure is undoubtedly that of
a fern. It would be difficult to give any satisfactory definition of
the genus Temp%hya\ and seeing that such specimens as are

^ Commentat. PsaroHthus. p. 21.

2 Prodrome, p. 136.

3 Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i. p. 423.

* Brit. Assoc. Report, 1886, p. 3 (reprint).

TEMPSZYA. 149

usually included under that name are only incomplete pieces of
fern stems, any attempted diagnosis would be of little value.
Solms-Laubach^ speaks of certain forms of Rachiopteris occurring
in the " Tempshya condition" ; and this probably means that they
are imbedded in a felted mass of adventitious roots. As will be
shown in the sequel, certain species previously referred to this
genus have been proved by the examination of more perfect
material to be referable to other and more precisely defined
genera. It will be well for the present to retain Corda's term,
if we regard it as implying a particular manner of preservation
rather than any well-defined generic characters. Used in this
provisional sense, Tempshya includes such specimens of tree-ferns
as consist in the main of felted masses of adventitious roots,
with occasional petioles associated with them, and which are
without any distinct vascular cylinder.

Velenovsky has made some important additions to our know-
ledge of these Tempshya forms, which will be referred to under
T. Schiinperi, Cord.

I am indebted to Prof. Stenzel,^ of Breslau, for certain im-
portant suggestions as to the nature of the genus Tempshya. He
points out that this term is occasionally used in the case of
specimens which consist simply of roots without any trace of
stems; he mentions the receipt of such a " Tempshya^' from the
late Dr. Stur, and compares the structure of the roots to that
characteristic of Protopteris punctata or P. microrhiza. This form
of Tempshya, as Stenzel adds, does not conform to the original
description by Corda, in which reference is made to petioles asso-
ciated with numerous roots.

In referring to Corda's opinion that Tempshya probably repre-
sents a portion of a tree-fern stem above the actual stem apex,*
Stenzel justly points to the great masses of roots in different
species of this genus as a fatal objection to such a view. Stenzel
adds that Corda's specimens must have been pieces from the lower
part of a stem ; but, judging by the great thickness of the root-
mass on one side of the stem of T. pulchra and T. Schimperi as
figured by Corda,* there must have been a considerable length of

1 Fossil Botany, p. 159.

2 Letter, Dec. 1893.

3 Flor. Vorwelt, p. 81.

* Ibid. pi. Iviii. fig. 1 ; pi. Hx. fig. 1.

150 TEMPSKTA.

stem above, and the lower petioles would have been long dis-
organized, as in the lower parts of living tree-fern stems.
Possibly, writes Stenzel, Corda's petioles may belong to thin and
creeping fern stems, and the roots might possibly be referred to
the same creeping axes; but, he adds, such an explanation is hardly
probable. Lastly the possibility is suggested that some of the
petioles may have belonged to rhizomes creeping amongst the root-
mass of a Protopteris stem, as in the case of Zygopteris scandens
between the roots of Fsaronius}

Tempskya Schimperi, Corda.

1824. Endogenites erosa, Stokes and Webb, Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i.

p. 423, pi. xlvi. figs. 1 and 2 ; pi, xlvii. fig. 5.
1828. Endogenites erosa, Martin, Geol. Mem. Sussex, p. 41.
1833. Endogmites erosa, Mantell, Geol. S.E. England, p. 236, pi. i. figs.

4, 5 and 7.
1836. Endogenites erosa, Fitton, Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. iv. p. 172,

pi. xix. and xx.
1845. Protopteris erosa, linger, Sjm. plant, foss. p. 107.

1845. Tempshya Schimperi, Corda, Flor. Vorwelt, p. 83, pi. lix. figs. 1-2.

1846. Endogenites erosa, Dunker, "Wealdenbildung, p. 17, pi. iii. fig. 1.

1846. Sedgwickia yuccoides, Dunker, ibid. p. 84.

1847. Endogenites erosa, Mantell, Geol. Excurs. I. Wight, p. 288.

1848. Endogenites erosa, Bronn, Index pal. nomencl. vol. i. p. 461.
Sedgwickia yuccoides, Bronn, ibid. vol. ii. p. 1132.

1849. ? Protopteris erosa, Brongniart, Tableau, p. 107.

1849. Protopteris erosa, Gutbier, Verstein. Roth. Sachsen. p, 17.

1850. ? Porosus marginatus, Cotta, Dendrolithen, p. 41, pi. viii. figs. 4 and 5.

1850. Tempskya Schimperi, linger. Gen. spec, plant, foss. p. 201.

1851. Tempskya Schimperi, Bronn and Roemer, Leth. geog. Th. iv. p. 46,

pi. xxviii. fig. 8.

1852. Tempskya Schimperi, Ettingshausen, Abh. k.-k. geol. Beichs. vol. i.

Abth. iii. No. 2, p. 19.
1854. Endogenites erosa, Morris, Brit. foss. p. 8.
1866. Tempskya Schimperi, Renger, Ziva, p. 45.
1869. Tempskya Schimperi, Schimper, Trait, pal. veg. vol. i, p. 698.
1871. Tempskya Schimperi, Schenk, Palaeontographica, vol. xix. p. 259,

pi. xlii. fig. 4 ; pi. xliii.
1878. Tempskya Schimperi, Dixon, Geol. Sussex, p. 282.
1888. Tempskya Schimperi, Velenovsky, Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg.

vol. ii. p. 23.

^ Die Gattung Tubicaulis, Bib. bot. Haenlein und Uhlworm, Heft xii. 1889,
p. 31.

TEMPSKTA. 151

Corda^ has defined the species as follows: —

** Rhachi tenui ; cortice tenui fuscescente ; fasciculo vasonim
majori lunulato, aequali, utrinque rotundato; minoribus oppositis,
recurvis."

We may substitute the following diagnosis as probably more
in accordance with the real nature of the species : —

Masses of numerous branched adventitious roots, and a few
small ? petioles forming masses, occasionally several feet in
length, and in large specimens about one foot in diameter; the
transverFe section of the mass is often elliptical in shape, no doubt
as the result of pressure; the ends of the specimens frequently
taper to a pointed termination, and the external surface may be
covered over with a layer of coaly substance representing car-
bonized tissue. The roots are of the diarc type, and the petiole
structures are characterized by a horseshoe-shaped vascular band.
(The central vascular axis possibly of the Protopteris form).

Among the fossils collected by Mantell from the Wealden rocks
of Tilgate Forest, Messrs. Stokes and Webb'* described certain
specimens which usually showed an attenuation towards each end,
and at times an encrusting shell of carbonaceous matter ; to these
was assigned the name Endogenites erosa. The appearance of
transverse sections was considered to indicate a Monocotyledonous
structure, and hence the generic term Endogenites; the specific name
erosa having reference to the eroded appearance of the surface.

The same fossil was alluded to by Mantell ^ in 1822, but without
any definite name.

In Martin's work, cited in the synonymy, there is a footnote
stating the occurrence of a silicified specimen near Mulsey.

Mantell reproduces Stokes and Webb's figures, and quotes the
opinion of Brongniart that these peculiar Wealden fossils have
some resemblance to fern stems. In Fitton's important Memoir*
we find several figures of specimens of the same fossil from the
neighbourhood of Hastings, and with a much more complete
description than that previously given by Stokes and Webb.
Special attention is drawn to the frequent occurrence of an in-

1 Flor. Vorwelt, p. 83.

^ Trans, Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i. p. 423.

^ Fossils S. Downs, p. 22.

* Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. iv. p. 17, pis. xix. and xx.

162 TEMPSKYA.

vesting coat of carbonaceous matter of iV to iV inch in thickness,
such, e.g., as is represented in a woodcut on page 173 of Fitton's
paper. The largest specimen is described as having a length of
9 feet. My attention has been drawn by Mr. Carruthers to this
coaly covering in certain specimens of Tempshya Schimperi, which
he has himself examined in situ in the Isle of Wight ; he is of
opinion that the coal may be looked upon as the carbonized remains
of some peripheral or external tissues, the more internal portions
having been more or less perfectly preserved by mineralization.
No doubt we may regard the coal as the carbonized remnants of
some external tissues, but there hardly seems any adequate reason
for concluding that the tissues, thus reduced to a condition of
coal or lignite, were originally of a different nature to those
underlying structures which have been partially preserved in
the process of fossilization. Corda^ figures and describes four
species of Tempshya^ but it is by no means easy, from an inspection
of his figures, to grasp the points of difference on which the
Bpecific characters were founded. He considers T. Schimperi to
consist simply of a mass of roots and petioles imperfectly preserved.
Dunker '^ refers to specimens of the same plant from North Germany
as representing the stem of some unknown Monocotyledon.

In a later work MantelP quotes Robt. Brown's opinion that the
structure of JEndogenites erosa suggests an approach to the Cycadece.

Cotta's* figure of what he calls Forosus marginatum shows what
are no doubt numerous small roots, and apparently a few petiole (?)
axes.

The specimen figured by Schenk^ was found in the Hastings
Sands of Neundorf near Hannover, and is regarded by him as
identical with Mantell's specimens from the English Weald. This
writer prefers to look upon Tempshya Schimperi as an imperfect
specimen of part of a complete stem, and not merely a mass of
roots and petioles as described by Corda ; he recognizes the fern
character of the vascular bundles. Schenk speaks of the numerous
small and circular vascular bundles as surrounded by sclerenchy-

* Flor. Vorwelt, pp. 81-83, pis. Iviii. and lix.
2 Wealdenbildung, p. 17.

s Geol. Excurs. I. Wight, p. 288.

* Dendrolithen, pi. viii. figs. 4 and 5.

* Palseontographica, vol. xix. pis. xlii. and xliii.

TEMPSKTA. 153

matous tissue, and the larger bundles as strongly bent in a horse-
shoe pattern ; and he conies to the conclusion that the affinities
of the plant are probably with the Marattiacece. On what grounds
this comparison is made is not very clear. The diarc nature of
the root vascular bundles is opposed to any Marattiaceous affinity.^
A large transverse section is figured in pi. xliii. of Schenk's Mono-
graph; the structure is far from perfect, but it suffices to give
confirmation to the statement that the specimen is identical with
those from the Wealden rocks of England. The general absence
of the vascular bundles in the circular root sections and the
appearance of all such tissues as are preserved, exactly correspond
to what is usually found in our common English examples.

Carruthers^ refers to the absence of all traces of foliage in
Tempskya Schimperi, and expresses the opinion that the species
may probably be considered as a portion of some arborescent fern.
Another species of this genus, T. cretacea, has been described by
Hosius and von Marck from the Lower Senonian of Haltern,' and
is compared by them to T. Schimperi. In 1872 Feistmantel* drew
attention to the doubtful value of Tempskya as a distinct genus,
and pointed to the probability of such forms being found to be
simply examples of Protopteris Sternhergiiy Cord., in a particular
state of preservation. He suggests that possibly T. pulchra^ Cord.,
T. macrocaulis, Cord., T. microrhi%a, Cord., are merely so many
states of fossilization of Protopteris Sternhergii, and identical with
Palmacites varians, Cord., described by Corda in Reuss' " Versteine-
rungen der bohmischen Kreidef ormation " ; ^ the latter he regards as
a mass of silicified air-roots of Protopteris Sternbergii.^ Eeistmantel
makes the important announcement that in some of the Tempskyas
which he examined it was possible to detach the outer portions of
the specimen from an internal nucleus exhibiting the characteristic
markings of P. Sternlergii.

Yelenovsky' has supplemented Eeistmantel's remarks with regard
to this problematical fossil by his descriptions of specimens from

^ De Bary, Comp. Anat. p. 364.

2 Dixon, Geol. Sussex, p. 282.

3 Palaeontographica, vol. xxvi. p. 192, pi. xxxix, figs. 161-163.

4 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vi. Folg. vol. v. 1872, p. 22.

5 p. 87, pi. xlvii. fig. 7.

^ Corda's figures in Reuss' work have a distinct resemblance to Palm structures.
' Abh. k. bbbm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg. vol. ii. 1888, p. 23.

154 TEMPSKTA.

the Quadersandstein of Bohemia. He adopts the specific term
varians, and includes under this species T. pulchra, Cord., T.
macrocaulis, Cord., T. microrhiza, Cord., and T. Schimperi, Cord.,
also Palmacites varians, Cord., and Fasciculites variana, Ung.
Velenovsky's description of the Bohemian fossils agrees to a
large extent with the characters of the English specimens of
T. Schimperi; the surface shows occasional grooves traversing a
felted mass of adventitious roots ; the latter are found to consist
of a central vascular axis surrounded by several layers of scler-
enchymatous elements. The groove-like depressions are regarded
as moulds of larger root axes, which frequently branch and break
up into such a general felted mass as occurs on the outside of a
Bicksonia antarctica stem. The same author alludes to the
apparent absence of a central vascular axis in Tempshya^ and goes
on to describe a specimen from the Prague Museum which throws
fresh light on the structure of the species. He speaks of having
examined 100 specimens of the fossil without discovering any
trace of a central vascular cylinder. The central axis, as pre-
served in the Prague specimen, seems to agree in all essential
respects with that of Protopteris punctata,^ and shows the same
leaf-trace figure on the petiole scars.

Eeference is made to Eeistmantel's description of a specimen
in which an outer mass of roots was detached from a central core
of P. Sternhergii. Finally, Yelenovsky concludes that the form
Tempshya must be regarded as having reference to such states of
fossilization in which only the lower parts of a fern root-stock have
been preserved ; he speaks of his examination of the root-stock of
Bicksonia antarctica as confirmatory of this view.

If this connection of the vascular axis of the Protopteris type
with the Tempskya root-masses be thoroughly established, we must
regard the numerous imperfect specimens of T. Schimperi, so
abundant in the English beds, as simply aggregations of roots,
and probably of some other structures, which in the living plants
enclosed a Protopteris form of vascular cylinder.

Whether this conclusion of Yelenovsky be established or not, it
is a striking fact that in the case of English and North German
specimens of Tempskya no example has been found which shows
anything of the nature of a Protopteris vascular axis. In the

1 Abh. k. bohm. Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg. vol. ii. 1888, p. 25.

TEMPSKYA. 165

specimen of Protopteris Witteana already described, which has
its minute structure partially preserved, there is certainly a general
resemblance in texture and manner of preservation to Tempshya
Schimperiy and such adventitious roots as occur in the neighbour-
hood of the Protopteris petiole scars appear to agree with those
of Corda's species.

The figure of a transverse section of a small root of TempsJcya
given by Velenovsky (pi. vi. fig. 6) is rather of the nature of a
diagrammatic than a very accurate sketch ; it gives a very im-
perfect idea of the structure of the central vascular axis. He
also figures in the same diagrammatic fashion a section of a
Dicksonia antarctica root ; here again the xylem is not shown at
all clearly. In the better specimens of Tempskya Schimperi which
I have examined, and in sections of fresh Dicksonia antarctica roots,
there is a very close agreement in structure ; in both there is a
well-marked diarc vascular bundle, and in both a strengthening
ring of sclerenchyma, with parenchyma on the outside. In pi. vi.
fig. 5 of his paper, Yelenovsky figures what he describes as the
main axis of a root with a horseshoe vascular bundle ; this seems
to me much more probably a section of a petiolar structure ; the
form of the vascular bundle is entirely different to that which we
find in the adventitious roots of such ferns as Dicksonia antarctica.

Through the kindness of the Director of the Royal Gardens,
Kew, and of the Assistant-Curator, Mr. Watson, I have lately had
the opportunity of closely examining some specimens of Dicksonia
antarctica. In one case Mr. Watson had a well-grown stem,
twenty-five years old, taken out of the ground; we found that
just below the surface of the soil the basal part of the axis became
swollen owing to the greater number of adventitious roots which
clothed the lower part of the stem. The central vascular cylinder
was prolonged almost to the bottom of the underground mass of
roots, tapering towards its somewhat oblique termination.

"We did not find any mass of roots below the surface, which
was without a central or excentric vascular axis for a sufficient
length to account for even the smaller specimens of Tempskya.
In the case of older and larger plants of Dicksonia, Mr. Watson
tells me that in such cultivated examples as he has noticed there is
usually a large ball-like mass of roots below the surface, but these
do not extend for more than a short distance, either vertically
downwards, or in an oblique direction, without any vascular

156 TEMPSKTA.

cylinder. "We must remember, however, that under natural con-
ditions of growth the case may be otherwise. Be that as it may,
my examination of the lower parts of cultivated Dicksonia antarctica
stems does not afford any strong support to Yelenovsky's view.

Could the thick enveloping mass of roots readily become separated
from the central vascular axis of a tree-fern stem, and thus account
for the occurrence in a fossil state of thick bundles of adventitious
roots without the central stem axis? We know how it has fre-
quently happened in the case of Lepidodendra stems from the
Coal-Measures that the central vascular axis has been completely
separated from the outer cortical tissues, and the latter have thus
been compressed together, forming an apparently complete
specimen. This separation in Lepidodendron is easily explained
by the two concentric lines of weakness which exist in the meris-
tematic layers, the cambium of the central cylinder, and the
meristematic zone in the outer cortex. In Dicksoma and other
tree-ferns we have no such zones of delicate cells, along which the
tearing apart of tissues might readily take place ; on the contrary,
we have the central vascular tissue with numerous spirally placed
petioles bound together by the plexus of roots, and it is not easy to
understand how any separation could be effected during fossilization.
In Museum specimens of Dicksonia antarctica stems, I am unable
to detect any tendency to a clean separation of the surrounding
roots from the central axis.

Again, it does not seem probable that the central axis would be
disorganized, and the roots remain as mineralized structures; the
thick resistant bands of strengthening tissue which accompany the
vascular plates would be far more likely to withstand weathering
influences than the smaller root structures.

Yelenovsky suggests that the roots of Tempskya probably drew
up from the soil the mineralizing solutions, which eventually
replaced their organic cell-walls. It is perhaps conceivable that
the roots on the base of the stem may have taken up calcareous
or siliceous solutions, and that the central vascular axis did not
offer any such convenient path for their ascent ; if this were so
the axis would gradually decay, and subsequent compression of the
root envelope might close up the vacant space and leave no signs in
the mineralized mass of any axial structure. This, however, is
mere speculation, and probably of little or no value in the solution
of this difficult question.

TEMPSKYA. 157

If we turn to the histological structure of TempsTcya we find, as
a rule, the mineralization of the tissues has been very partial, as
indeed the extremely porous texture of most of the specimens
sufficiently indicates. Schenk's figure affords a good example of
this incomplete preservation. In some specimens in the Botanical
Department of the British Museum, to which Mr. Carruthers was
kind enough to draw my attention, the structure is unusually well
shown. Unfortunately in the case of some of these slides there
seems to be some doubt as to the exact locality from which the
specimens were obtained. I am also indebted to Mr. Boodle of
the Royal College of Science for the opportunity of examining
some very interesting sections of Tempskya in his possession, of
which he hopes shortly to publish a full description.

The chief feature in specimens of Tempskya in which the details
are more perfectly preserved is the large number of root sections
of various sizes ; the central vascular bundle is occasionally
exceedingly distinct, and shows a diarc xylem group, of which
the larger tracheids have a scalariform or reticulate pitting.
Immediately surrounding the tracheids there is a space left by
the disorganization of the phloem ; and, external to this, several
layers of thick-walled elements, followed at the periphery of the
root by a thin band of parenchyma which, in some cases, shows
a remarkably distinct piliferous layer with long and narrow root
hairs. These sections in which the root hairs have been preserved
appear to be identical with those figured by Corda- in Protopteris
Cottai} Transverse sections of the roots of Bicksonia antarctica
agree very closely with these fossil roots ; we have the same type
again in Protopteris microrhiza and P. conjluens, Stenz., as figured
by Stenzel.2

In addition to these smaller diarc root bundles, some of the
British Museum slides of Tempskya show larger groups of tracheids
of a more or less triangular form which may be sections of larger
root axes. There is distinct evidence in the great variation in size
of the root sections that we are dealing with a mass of branched
root structures.

Associated here and there with these adventitious roots, some
of the examples of Tempskya occasionally show sections of lai-ger

^ Flor. Vorwelt, pi. l, figs. 1-5.

'•* Kova Acta Ac. Cods. Leop.-Car. vol. xxvi. 1858, pis. xviii. and xix.

158 TEMPSKTA.

structures; these often appear in the specimens as oval or round
tubuhjr cavities, but in some cases show a horseshoe vascular band,
to which I have already referred in speaking of Velenovsky's
figures. Similar structures are represented in Corda's figures of
the petioles of Tempskya pulchra and T. microrhiza} In two of
the Museum slides there are oblique sections of sclerenchymatous
tissue, in which the cavities of the fibres have been filled with
some opaque black substance, the fibre walls being represented by
clear spaces. The result is that each sclerenchymatous element
has the form of a tapered cast of the cavity of the fibre, and
radiating from this black spindle-shaped body occur tiny spoke-like
structures, evidently casts of the fibre pits. An identical form of
preservation has been described by Stenzel * in his paper on Hhizo-
dendron Oppoliense^ Gopp.

The general conclusion of these remarks may be summed up
as follows : In Tempskya Schimperi we have masses of branched
diarc fern roots associated with petiole axes, which occasionally
afford evidence of branching; probably some forms of Tempskya
and Protopteris are very closely related, if not identical plants;
but, so far as English specimens are concerned, there is an absence
of any direct proof of such organic connection between the two
fossils as Feistmantel and Velenovsky have previously suggested.

V. 216. This specimen shows good examples of repeatedly
branched structures, possibly roots. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll,

V. 1441. Two specimens with this registered number; on one
piece there is a fairly thick layer of coal enveloping the semi-
mineralized tissues. Ecclesbourne. Rufford Coll.

V. 2246. V. 2462. Smaller pieces. Ecclesbourne.

Rufford Coll.

7345. Slightly more than 19 inches long. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll,

7346. Eleven inches broad and 3^ inches thick. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

1 Flor. Vorwelt, pi. Iviii.

* Jahres-Ber. Schles. Ges. Kultur, Erganzungslieft, 1886, pi. iii. figs. 27-29.

TEMPSKTA. 159

7348. Another fairly large specimen, from which a section has
been cut. Tilgate Forest. Mantell Coll.

7349. This water- worn specimen shows the usual mass of roots,
with hollow casts of the larger branched axes. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

8343. A section appears to have been cut from this specimen.
A felted mass of roots, with the larger branching structures which
are possibly petioles; or, as suggested by Yelenovsky, they may be
thicker root structures. Tilgate Forest. Mantell Coll,

38923, 38924. Longitudinal sections exhibiting the usual
Tempshya characters. Tilgate Forest. Mantell Coll.

38939, 38940. Eoots and other branched axes. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

48044. Small polished transverse section. Tilgate Forest.

Mantell Coll.

52590, 52904, 55126. Specimens of the usual type.

One of the largest specimens in the Museum (without a registered
number) gives the following measurements : 1 foot 1 1 inches long,
7i inches broad, and 3i inches thick.

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Hodus and von der Marck. (2) Weitere Beitrage zur Kenntniss der

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Hutton, W. See Lindley.
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LIST OF WORKS QUOTED. 167

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L4man. Note sur la Gyrogonite. {Nouv. Bull. Sci. Paris, vol. iii.
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LesquereuXj L. (1) Geological Survey of Illinois. Vol. ii. Palaeon-
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LesquereuXy L. (2) Contributions to the Fossil Flora of the Western
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Lesquereux, L. (3) The Flora of the Dakota Group ; a posthumous
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Ludwig, R. Fossile Pflanzen aus der tertiaren Spatheisenstein von
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Luerssen, C. Die Farnpflanzen oder Gefassbiindel - kryptogamen
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Lyell, C. On a recent Formation of Fresh- water Limestone in Forfar-
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Mantell, G. (1) The Fossils of the South Downs, or Illustrations of
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Mantell, G. (2) Descriptions of some Fossil Vegetables of the Tilgate
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Mantell, G. (5) A Tabular Arrangement of the Organic Remains of
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Mantell, G. (6) The Wonders of Geology Edit. iii. London, 1839.

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168 LIST OF WORKS QUOTED.

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Martins. Denkschr. k. Baier. bot. Ges. vol. ii. 1822, Abth. i.
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Vol. V. Kjobenhavn, 1883. [^Meddel. Gronland.]
Meek, F. B. Report of the Geological Survey of Ohio. Vol. i. Geology

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Migvla, W. Die Characeen. Rabenhorst's Kryptogamen Flora von

Deutschland, Oesterreich und der Schweiz. Vol. v. Leipzig,

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Morris, J. A Catalogue of British Fossils. Edit. ii. London, 1854.

[Brit. Foss.]
Mourlon, M. Geologie de la Belgique. Brussels, 1880-81. [Geol.

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Murchison, R. I. et Verneuil, E. de, et Keyserling, A. von. The

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Murray, G. On a Fossil Alga belonging to the genus Caulerpa from

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Nathorst, A. G. (3) Beitrage zur mesozoischen Flora Japans. [Denhschr.

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des Horsandsteins in den Norddeutschen Diluvialablage-

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Newberry, J. S. (1) The Flora of the Great Falls Coal-field, Montana.

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Newberry, J. S. (2) The Cretaceous Flora of North America. [Trans.

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LIST OF WORKS QUOTED. 169'

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Passy, A . Description g^ologique du d^partement de la Seine-inferieure.

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PavloWj A. et Lamplugh, G. W. Argiles de Speeton et leurs

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Phillips, J. (2) Illustrations of the Geology of Yorkshire. Pt. i. : The

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170 LIST OF WOKKS QUOTED.

Itouilliery C. (1) Explication de la coupe g^ologique des environs de

Moscou. [Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. vol. xix. 1846, p. 359.]
Jiouillier, C. et Vossinskt/, — . (2) Etudes progressives sur la pal^on-

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Saportay O. de. (1) Prodrome d'une flore fossile des travertins ancieus

de Suzanne. [J/em. Soc. Geol. France, s^r. ii. vol. viii. 1865,

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Saporta, G. de. (2) Plantes Jurassiques. [Pal. Frang. s^r. ii. vols.

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Saporta^ O. de. (3) Sur les plus anciennes Dicotjl^es Europ6ennes

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Saporta, O. de. (4) Kevue des travaux de paleontologie v^getale parus

en France dans le cours des annees 1889-92. [Rev. Oen.

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Schenky A. (1) Die fossile Flora der Grenzschichten der Keupers und

Lias Frankens. Wiesbaden, 1867. [Fl, foss. Qrenz. Keup.

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Schenk, A. (2) Beitrage zur Flora der Vorwelt. Die Flora der nord-

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xix. 1871, p. 203.]
Schenk, A. (3) Die fossilen Pflanzen der Wernsdorfer Schichten in

der Nordkarpathen. [Palceontographica, vol. xix. 1871,

pi-]

Schenk, A. (4) Zur Flora der nordwestdeutschen Wealdenformation.

[Palceontographica, vol. xxiii. 1875-76, p. 157.]
^chenk, A. (5) See Richthofen.
Schenk, A. (6) Die wahrend der Reise des Grafen Bela Szdchenyi in

China gesammelten fossilen Pflanzen. [Palceontographicaf

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Sckenk, A. (7) Fossile Pflanzen aus der Albourskette. [Bibl. hot.

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Schimper, W. P. Traite de paleontologie v^getale.
Vol. i. 1869 )
Vol. ii. 1870-72 > [T'miV.joaZ. -y^^.]
Vol. iii. 1874 ^
Schlothdm, E. F. von. Nachtrage zur Petrefactenkunde. Gotha, 1822.

[Petrefactenkunde.']
Schmalhausen, J. Beitrage zur Jura-flora Russlands. [M^m. Ac. Imp.

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LIST OF WORKS QUOTED. 171

Schulze^ E. Ueber die Flora der subhercynischen Kreide. Inaugural

Dissertation. Halle, 1888. [Flor. suhhercyn. Kreid]
Solms-Lauback, Oraf zu. Fossil Botany. English translation. Oxford,

1891.
Sprengel, A. Commentatio de Psarolithis. Halle, 1828.
Squinabol, S. Contribuzioni alia Flora fossile dei Terreni Terziarii

della Liguria. Vol. i. Characee, etc. Genove, 1889 ; vol. ii.

Alghe, Genove, 1891. [Contrib. Fl.foss. Liguria.'\
Staub, M. Dicksonia punctata^ Stbg. sp., in der fossilen Flora Ungarns.

[Foldt Kdzl. 1890, p. 227.]
Stenzel^ K. G. (1) Ueber Farn Wurzeln aus dem Rothenliegenden.

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Stenzel, K. O. (2) Rhizodendron Oppoliense, Gopp. [Jahres.-Ber.

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Stenzel, G. (3) Die Gattung Tubicaulis Cott, : Bib. bot. Haenlein

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Sternberg, C. Graf von. Versuch einer geognostisch-botanischen Dar-

stellung der Flora der Vorwelt. Leipzig. [Flor. Vorwelt.]
Fasc. i. pp. 1-24, pi. i.-xiii. 1820.
„ ii. pp. 1-33, pi, xiv.-xxvi. 1821.
„ iii. pp. 1-39, pi. xxvii.-xxxix. 1823.
„ iv. pp. 1-42, pi. xl.-lix. and A-E. 1825.
„ V. and vi. pp. 1-48, pi. i.-xxvi. 1833.
„ vii. pp. 1-200, pi. xxvii.-lxviii. pi. A-B. 1838.
„ viii. pp. 1-71. 1838.
Sterzel, J. T. Die Flora der Rothliegenden im plauenschen Grunde bei

Dresden. [Abh. math.-phys. CI. k. Sachs. Ges. Wiss. vol.

xix. 1893.]
Stiehler, A. W. (1) [Ber. nat. Ver. Harz, 1853-54, p. 14.]
Stiehler, A. W. (2) Ueber fossile Pflanzen aus der Kreideformation

von Quedlinburg. [Zeitsch. deutsch. geol. Ges. vol. vi. 1854,

p. 659.]
Stiehler, A. W. (3) Beitrage zur Kenntniss der Vorweltlichen Flora

des Kreidegebirges im Harze. [Palceontographica, vol. v.

1855-58, p. 7.]
Stokes and Webb. Descriptions of some Fossil Vegetables of the Tilgate

Forest in Sussex. (The authors' names do not appear in

the title of this paper.) \_Trans. Geol. Soc. ser. ii. vol. i.

1824, p. 421.]
Struckmann, C. (1) Die Wealden-Bildungen der Umgegend von Han-
nover. Hannover, 1880. [Weald. Hannover.']
Struckmann, C. (2) Die Grenzschichten Zwischen Hilsthon und

Wealden bei Barsinghausen am Deister. [Jahrb. k. preuss.

Geol. Landesanst. 1889, p. 54. j

172 LIST OF WOEKS QUOTED.

Stur^ D. (1) Die Lunzer (Lettenkolilen — ) Flora in den " Older Meso-

zoic beds of the Coal-field at Eastern Virginia." [ Verh. Jc.-Jc.

geol Reichs. No. 10, 1888, p. i.]
Stur, D. (2) Beitrage zur Kenntniss der Flora der Vorwelt. Vol. ii.

Die Carbon-flora der Schatzlarer Schichten. Abth. i. \Ahh.

k.-k. geol. Reichs. vol. xi. Abth. i. 1885.]
Tate, R. On some Secondary Fossils from South Africa. [Quart.

Journ. Geol. Soc. vol. xxiii. 1867, p. 139.]
Tenison- Woods, J. E. On the Fossil Flora of the Coal Deposits of

Australia. \_Proc. Linn. Soc. N.S. Wales, vol. viii. pt. i.

1883.]
Topley, W. (1) The Geology of the Weald. Mem. Geol. Surv. London,

1875. [Weald.]
Topley, W. (2) See Jukes-Browne, A . J.
Trautschold, T. (1) Kecherches geologiques aux environs de Moscou.

[Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. vol. xxxi. pt. iv. 1858, p. 546,]
Trautschold, T. (2) Ueber der Kreide-Ablagerungen im Gouverne-

ment Moskau. [Bull. Soc. Imp. Nat. Mosc. vol. xxxiv.

pt. iv. 1861, p. 432.]
Trautschold, T. (3) Der Klin'sche Sandstein. Moscou, 1870. [Nouv.

Mem. Soc. Nat. Moscou, vol. xiii. 1876, p. 191.]
Ulrich, E. 0. Contributions to American Palaeontology. [Geol, Mag.

KS. dec. 3, vol. iii. 1886, p. 374.]
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plant, f OSS. 1
linger, F. (2) Genera et species plantarum fossilium. Vindobonee,

1850. [Gen. spec, plant. foss.'\
linger, F. (3) Keise der Oesterreichischen Fregatte Novara um die

Erde. Geologischer Theil, vol. i. Abth. ii. p. 1. Wein, 1864.

[Reise Fregatte Novara.]
Vaillant. [Hist. Ac. R. Sci. 1719, p. 17. Paris, 1721.]
Velenovsk^, J. (1) Die Gymnospermen der bohmischen Kreideforma-

tion. Prag, 1885. [Gym. hohm. Kreid.]
Velenovsky, J. (2) Die Fame der bohmischen Kreideformation. [Abh.

k. hohm Ges. Wiss. vii. Folg. vol. ii. 1888.]
Ward, L. F. (1) The Geographical Distribution of Fossil Plants.

[U.S. Geol. Surv. Ann. Rep. No. 8, 1887-88.]
Ward, L. F. (2) Evidence of the Fossil Plants as to the age of the

Potomac formation. [Am. Journ. Sci. ser. iii. vol. xxxvi.

1888, p. 119.]
Weichsel, — . [Ber. Nat. Ver. Harz, 1853-54, p. 24.]
Wethered, E. On the Occurrence of Calcisphcerce, Williamson, in the

Carboniferous Limestone of Gloucestershire. [Quart. Journ.

Geol. Soc. vol. xliv. Proc. 1888, p. 91. J

LIST OF WOEKS QUOTED. 173

White^ C. A. Correlation papers. Cretaceous. [Bull. U.S. Oeol. Surv.

No. 82, 1891.]
White, D. A new Tseniopteroid Fern and its allies. [Bull. Geol. Soc.

America, vol. iv. 1893, p. 119.]
Williamson, W. C. On the organization of the Fossil Plants of the

Coal-Measures. Pt. x. [Phil. Trans. 1880, p. 493.]
Woodward, H. Notes on some Mesozoic Plant Remains from South

Australia. [Geol. Mag. vol. ii. 1885, p. 289.]
Woodward, H. B. The Geology of England and Wales. Edit. ii.

London, 1887.
YoJcoyama, M. (1) On the Jurassic Plants of Kaga, Hida and Echizen.

[Bull. Geol. Soc. Japan, pt. B, vol. i. No. 1, 1886.]
Tokoyamxi, M. (2) Jurassic Plants from Kaga, Hida and Echizen.

[Journ. Coll. Sci. Japan, vol. iii. 1890.]
Zeiller, R. (1) Bassin houiller de Valennciennes. Paris, 1888.
Zeiller, R. (2) Annuaire G^ologique. Vol. viii. 1892-93, p. 893. [Ann.

Geoi:\
Zeiller, R. (3) See Renault.
Zigno, A. de. Flora fossilis formationis Oolithicse. Vol. i. Padova,

1856. [Flor.foss. Oolit.]
Zittel, K. A. Handbuch der Paleeontologie. Vol. i. Schimper, W. P.

and Schenk, A. Munich and Leipzig, 1890. [Handhuch.'\

mJ)EX OF GENEEA, SPECIES, ETC.:

MENTIONED IN THE DESCRIPTIVE PART OF THE CATALOGUE.

[Synonyms are printed in italics.']

AcroBtichopteris, 60, 61.

densifolia, 62.

longipennis, 60, 62.

Ruffordi, 61, 62, 84.
Acrostichum, 36, 60, 61.

peltatura, 61.
Adiantites Mantelli, 130.
Alethopteris, 92.

Albertsii, 91, 92, 94.

Browniana, 99, 100.

cycadina, 146.

elegans, 63, 64.

Uttingshaiisei, 115.

Gopperti, 63.

Huttoni, 98.

recentior, 115, 117.

Reichinna, 99.

M'dsserti, 92.

Whitbyensis, 88, 92, 95.
Algacitts, 2, 3.
Algge, 1-8.
Algites, 2-4.

catenelloides, 6, 7.

Valdensis, 4-8.
Andriania Earuthina, 136.
Aneimidium Klipsteinii, 131.

Mantelli, 130.
Aneiinites, 75.
Anemia, 39, 75, 81, 83.

adiantifolia, 76-81.
Angiopteridium, 124.
Anomopteris, 115, 117.

LudoviciB, 115.
Aspidium, 36, 102

Dunkeri, 101, 102.
Asplenites Klinensis, 115, 118, 147.

palceopteris, 107, 108, 112.

Msserti, 87, 89, 95, 96.
Asplenium, 36, 80, 88, 89, 93, 95,
108.

argutiilum, 96.

Dicksonianum,

foeniciilaceum, 80.

fragrans, 7, 8, 80.
Whitbyensis, 96.

Botrychium, 22.
Bryophyta, 15-19.

Calamites arenaceus, minor, 25.
Calcisphsera, 11.

Lemoni, 11.
Carolopteris aquensis, 137.

asplenioides, 137.
Carpolithus, 28, 29.

eordaius, 27.

Huttoni, 27.

Li / 1 die y amis, 27, 29.

Mantelli, 27, 28.

sertum, 28, 33, 34.
Catenella, 7, 8.
Caulerpa, 1, 2, 5.

arcuata, 6.

Camithersii, 2.
Caulerpites, 1, 2.
Caulopteris, 71.

punctata, 72,
Chara, 9-12.

Bleicheri, 12.

foetida, 14.

Jaccardi, 12, 13.

Knowltoni, 12-14.

niedicaginula, 14.

Meriani, 14.

Millardi, 12.

Stantoni, 14.
Characeae, 9-14.
Charophyta, 9-14.
Cheilanthites Gopperti, 76.

Mantelli, 41.
Chiropteris, 144.

spatulata, 144.
Chondria, 5.
Chondrides, 5.

dolichophyllus, 5.
Chondrites, 1, 5.
Chondrus, 1,4, 8.

crispu3, 4, 7.
Cladophlebis, 87, 95, 101, 104, 124.

acuta, 93, 96.

176

ALPHABETICAL INDEX.

CladopMebia Albertsii, 91-98, 113.

Browniana, 66, 99, 100.

deuticulata, 93.

Dunkeri, 99, 100-104, 147, 169.

falcata, 93, 96.

Haibiirnensis, 88.

inclinata, 94.

ligata, 88.

lobifolia, 88.

longipennis, 89-91.

nebbensis, 116, 119.

Rosserti, 94, 95.

tenuis, 88.

Whitbyensis, 88, 94-96.
Clathropteris, 138.

Miinsteriana, 139.
Confervites Jissiis, 6, 41.

setaceus, 6.
Coniferse, 21.
Cryptogramme, 47, 48.

crispa, 51.
Cyathea, 136.
Cyatbeacese, 62-75.
Cycadinocarpus cordatus, 27.

Euttoni, 27.

Lindleyanus, 27.

MantelU, 27.
Cycadites Althausii, 63.
Cyclopteris, 75.

Acadica, 76.

Mantelli, 130.

Danaeites, 123.
Danaiopsis, 124.
Davallia, 51.

gibberosa, 51.
Dicbymosaunis, 89.
Dicksonia, 36, 47, 56, 69, 71.

antarctica, 69, 74, 154-156.

elongata, 40, 55, 56.

punctata, 72.
Dictyopbyllum, 138-140.

acutilobum, 139-141.

Dicks oni, 141.

Nilssoni, 140, 142.

Roemeri, 139, 140-142.

rugosum, 138.
Dictyote, 4.

Endogenitea, 148.

erosa, 148, 150, 151, 152.
Equisetacese, 22-35.
Equisetinse, 22-35.
Equisetites, 22-24.

arcticum, 31.

arenaceum, 31.

Burchardti, 27-34.

Equisetites Hemingwayi, 23.

Lusitanicum, 25.

Lyelli, 24-27.

Munsteri, 26, 31.

Parlatorii, 31.

Phillipsii, 25, 26.

Ushimarense, 29.

Tokoyamae, 28, 33-35.
Equisetum, 20, 22, 23, 30.

arvense, 30, 31.

maximum, 30.

palustre, 30.

sylvaticum, 30.

Telmateia, 30.

tuberosum, 31,

Virginicum, 29.

Fasciculites varians, 154.
Filicites, 104.

punctatus, 72.
rioridesB, 5.
Fontinalis, 16.
Fucoides, 3.

erectus, 5, 17, 18.
Fucus, 3.
FurceUaria, 5.

Gleichenia, 136, 147.

micromera, 147.

multinervosa, 147.

Nordenskioldi, 100.

Zippei, 100.
Gleicheniacese, 90.
Gleichenites, 147.
Glossopteris, 142, 143.

Pbillipsii, 142.
Glyptostrobus gracillimus, 21.
Gymnogramme, 40.
Gymnostomum femigineum, 17.
Gyrogonites, 9.
Gyrophyllites Tbeobaldi, 6.

Halyserites gracilis, 19.

Hausmannia, 140.

dichotoma, 140, 142.

Forchbammeri, 139-141.
Helmintbostacbys, 22.
Hepaticae, 17-19, 21.
Hymenophyllum Tunbridgense, 117-
Hymenopteris psilotoides, 41, 43.
Hypneae, 15.

Isoetes, 22.

ALPHABETICAL INDEX.

177

Jeanpanlia nervosa, 78.

Jungermannia, 17.
Jungermannites, 17, 21.
Juniperus macilenta, 21.

Klukia, 39, 75.

Laccopteris Dunkeri, 135, 136.

elegans, 136.

Gopperti, 63.

Miinsteri, 137.

pulchella, 136.
Lepidodendron, 156.

punctatum, 68, 70.
Lonchopteris, 113, 114, 117, 119.

Bricii, 119.

Mantelli, 114-119.

recentior, 115, 118.

Virginiensis, 119.
Lycopodites, 21.

Maakii, 15.

uncinatus, 15.
Lycopodium phlegmaria, 20.

Marattiacese, 122, 153.
Marattiopsis, 124.
Marchantia, 17, 18.

chenopoda, 18.

oolithicus, 17.
Marchantites, 18.

Zeilleri, 18, 19.
Marsilea, 61, 129, 130.
Matonia, 62, 63.

pectinata, 63, 65.

sarmentosa, 63.
Matonidium, 62, 63, 66, 137.

Gopperti, 63-67.
Microdictyon, 134, 136, 137.

Dunkeri, 65, 135-137.
Microlepis Mantelli, 42.
Mcellerinay 11.
Mohria, 39.
Musci, 15.
Muscinege, 15-19.
Muscites, 16.

cretaceus, 16.

falcifolius, 16.

imbricatus, 16.

polytrichaceus, 16.

Sternbergianus, 16.

Najadita, 16.

Nathorstia, 145.

Valdensis, 145-148.
Neuropterides, 87.

JSfeuropteris, 35, 87, 91, 128.

Albertsii, 91-93.
Nilssonia, 122.

orientalis, 123.
Mtella, 10.
Nitophyllum, 4.

Eonnemaisoni, 4.

Oleandra, 122, 123, 125.

neriiformis, 125.
Oleandridium, 122-124.

Beyrichii, 125.

Eurychoron, 129.
Onoclea struthiopteris, 95.
OnycMopsis, 40, 41, 47, 48, 51.

capsulifera, 49.

elongata, 41, 47-49, 52, 55-60,
106.

Mantelli, 6, 39, 41-54, b%, 59,
97, 108, 112, 113.
Onychium, 40, 47, 48, 50, 51, 53.

Japonicum, 51.
Osmundacea3, 95.

Paehypteris gracilis, 107, 108.
Palmacites varians, 153, 154.
Pecopteris, 3, 35, 87-89, 117.

Althausii, 63, 65.

Auerbachiana, 115.

Browniana, 99-102.

C(espitosa, 64.

Conybeari, 63, 64.

decipiens, 135.

dentata, 94.

Dunkeri, 100-103.

exiliforme, 101, 102.

exilis, 39, 75, 101, 102.

explanata, 63, 65.

Geinitzii, 89, 145-146.

Geyleriana, 101-103, 116, 119,
120.

gleichenoides, 147.

Murchisoniana, 115, 117.

nebbensis, 94.

nigrescens, 118.

obtusifolia, 102.

pachycarpa, 65.

pinnatifida, 146.

polydactyla, 63, 64.

polymorpha, 100, 101.

Eeichiana, 99.

reticulata, 114, 115.

tenuis, 93.

Ungeri, 100.

Whitby ensis, 87, 89, 91-93.

Zippei, 100.

178

ALPHABETICAL INDEX.

Phlebopteri8, 134.

Dunkeri, 135.
Phyllites, 138.
Phyllopteris, 124.

acutifolia, 143, 144.

Phillipsii, 143.
Phyllotheca, 20, 27.

equisetiformis, 20.

Schtscliuraroskii, 20.
Physagenia Farlatorii, 31.
Polypodiacese, 40-62.
Polypodites Mantelli, 114, 115.
Polj-podium, 36, 60, 136.
Polytrichum, 15.
Porella, 21.

Porosiis marginatus, 152.
Protopteris, 68, 69, 73, 150, 151,
154-158.

confluens, 157.

Cottai, 73, 74, 157.

Cotteana, 71, 73.

Debeyi, 72.

erosa, 150.

fibrosa, 73.

microrhiza, 149, 157.

punctata, 70, 72, 73, 149, 154.

Sternbergii, 71-73, 153, 154.

"Witteana, 69-75, 155.
Pteridophvta, 22-159.
Pteris, 36', 95, 118.

Albertini, 92.

Albertsii, 91, 92, 94.

frigida, 93.

reticulata, 115.
Pterophyllum JiUcum, 115.

Murchisonianum. 115.

KacMopteris, 3, 149.
Reboulia hemisphajrica, 6.
Restiaceffi, 29.
Rhipodopteris, 61.
Rhizodendron Oppoliense, 73, 158.
Rhizogonium, 15.
Rhodymenia, 4.
Ruffordia, 75, 76.

Gopperti, 39, 44, 45, 75-86, 106.

Saccammina Eriana, 11.
Sagenopteris, 129, 130, 132, 142.

angastifolia, 143,

Mantelli, 130-134.

Nathorsti, 132.

Neocomiensis, 132.

rhoifolia, 131-133.

Stoliczana, 130,

undulata, 143, 144.
Sargassites Partscbii, 6.

Schizacese, 75-86.
Scleropteris dissects, 103.

Pomelii, 110, 120.
Sedgwickia yuccoides, 150.
Sigillaria punctata, 72.
Speirocarpus Haberfelneri, 119.
Sphffirococcides, 5.
Spbajrococcites, 5.

chondria;formis, 6.
Sphenolepis Kurriana, 42, 44.
Sphenopteris, 3, 35, 36, 47, 51, 75,
88, 90, 104-113.

adiantifrons, 76.

acrodentata, 79, 86.

antipodum, 48.

Auerbachi, 11, 79.

Bunburyauus, 110.

Cordai, 56, 109.

Delgadoi, 107, 112.

elongata, 51.

Fittoni, 97, 107-113.

Jlabelli folium, var. erecta, 91, 94.

Fontainei, 19, 106.

fragilis, 110.

Goinesiana, bQ, 112.

Gopperti, 39, '45, 55, 56, 60, 75,
76-78, 84, 86.

gracilis, 107, 108.

Hartlebeni, 76-78.

Hoeningbausii, var. Larischi-
formis, 111.

Jugleri, 44, 76-78.

longifolia, 76-78.

Mantelli, 39, 41-43, 46, 48, 51,
66, 58, 108.

Fhillipsii, 76-78, 86.

Pichleri, 109, 112.

plurinervia, 56, 110, 112.

Roemeri, 41, 42, 44.

Sillimani, 41-44, 54.

Steenstrupi, 79.

tenera, 41, 44, 108.

Valdensis, 42, 45, 48, 77, 78.

Tsenidium Lusitanicum, 6.
Tajniopteris, 122-129, 142, 143.

Bevricliii, 123, 125-128.

Dawsoui, 123-129.

Forbesii, 124.

obtusa, 127.

spatulata, 126.

stenoneura, 126.

superba, 127.

tenuinervia, 126.

vittata, 122.

Zoebingiana, 128.
Tempskya, 148-150, 156, 157.

cretacea, 153.

ALPHABETICAL INDEX.

179

Tempskya macrocaulis, 153.

microrliiza, 153, 158.

pulchra, 149, 153, 154, 158.

Schimperi, 40, 149, 150-159.
Thallophyta, 1-8.
Thaumatopteris, 134, 138, 139.
Thinnfeldia, 132.

Lesquereuxiana, 132.

rhoraboidalis, 143.

variabilis, 130, 132.
Thyrsopteris, 36, 40, 45-47, 55-57, 93.

alata, 57, 58.

angustifolia, 58.

brevipennis, 79.

eapsulifera, 47, 59.

crenata, 58.

densifolia, 58.

elliptica, 58.

elongata, 40, 55.

heterophylla, 58.

ina3quipmnata, 58, 110.

insignis, 46.

Kagensis, 79.

Thyrsopteris Meekiana, 57, 58, 60.

microphylla, 52, 58.

pinnatifida, 58.

rarinervis, 46, 55, 57.

Virginica, 57.
Tricliomaiiites Gopperti, 78.

laxum, 42, 45.

spinifolium, 42, 45.

Vittaria, 124.

WalcMa, 29.

Weichselia, 113, 114, 117, 119, 121.

erratica, 116, 118.

ZudoviccB, 115, 116, 118.

Mantelli, 113-121
Widdringtonites Reichii, 21.

Zonaria, 4.

Zygopteris scandens, 150.

PRINTED BY STEPHEN AUSTIN AND SONS, HERTFORD.

EXPLANATION OF PLATES.

All the figured specimens are preserved in the British Museum,
their registered numbers being quoted in square brackets. The
figures are drawn natural size, except in one or two cases where
the enlargement is stated. With the exception of PL I. Figs.
1 and 2, PL X. Fig. 3, and PL XI., all the specimens are
from the Rufford Collection.

PLATE I.

Fig. 1. Algites valdensis, gen. et sp. iiov. Carbonaceous impression

of thallus. Page 6.
Algites catenelloides^ gen. et sp. nov. The small branched

impressions associated with the previous species. P. 7.

[V. 2857.]
Fig. 2. Algites valdensis, gen. et sp. nov. P. 6.

Algites catenelloides, gen, et sp. nov. At a the elliptical form

of the cells is shown. P. 7. [V. 2857.]

Fig. 3. Marchantites Zeilleri, sp. nov. The branched vegetative body.

P. 19. [V. 2330.]

Fig. 4. Equisetites Lyelli, Mant. Stem showing leaf-sheaths and the

base of a lateral branch. P. 25. [V. 69.]

Fig. 5. Equisetites Bur char dti, Dunk. Tubers and root attached to a

node. The left-hand tuber shows two teeth at the apex.'

P. 32. [V. 2367.]

Fig. 6. Equisetites Burchardti, Dunk. Three long and slender divisions

of a leaf-sheath shown in the left-hand fragment. P. 32.

[V. 2367.]
Fig. 7. Specimen A {Plantce incertce sedis). P. 19. [V. 2370.]

Fig. 8. Specimen B {Plantce incertce sedis). P. 20.
Fig. 9. Small piece of a branch of Fig. 8 enlarged 10 times. [V. 2328.]

B.MWEALDEN PLANTS

Plate I.

E .C & G-MWoocLwaurd a^I.etlitk

"West^Ne '/witiain. inip.

WealdexL, Algas, Mai?cKaxitites,
Equisetites, etc.

PLATE II.

Fig. 1. Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.). Frond showing habit well, but
details not very distinct. Page 48. [V. 2168.]

Fig. 2. Onychiopsis elongata (Geyler). Portions of pinnse. P. 59.

[V. 2731.]

H.M.WEALiD^.lSr PLANTS.

PisL-telL.

^I^r^.

E.CS^G.MWoocLwa^l del.eLlitk.

We<^t^^e -ACrx'Jaii iicij,'.

OrtycMop si

PLATE III.

Fig. 1. Om/chiopais Mantelli(Bvong.). Smaller form of frond. Page 48.

[V. 2151a.]

Fig. 2. Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.). Fragments of fertile pinnse.
P. 49. [V. 2151.]

Fig. 3. Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.). Terminal portion of a fertile
pinna. P. 49. [V. 2159.]

Fig. 4. Onychiopsis Mantelli (Brong.). Portions of three fertile axes.
P. 49. [V. 1069.]

Fig. 5. Ruffordia Oi>pperti (Dunk.). Part of a sterile frond. P. 82.

[V. 2731.]

Fig. 6. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Fragment showing a sterile upper
portion, and two basal fertile pinnse. P. 83. [V. 2295.]

B.M.WRAI.DKN PLANTS.

Plate in.

K.C/k3.M7//ood.w.aid dsi.^^lj.,.

VVfe St , Ne AwuxaTi xmp .

Onychiopsis />. H-uff^ordia.

PLATE IV.

Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Finely divided form of frond. From
a photograph by Mr. Gepp. Page 81. [V. 2157.]

B. M. Wealden Plants.

Plate IV.

A. Gepp phot, ad nat.

Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.).

PLATE Y.

Fig. 1. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Single pinna. Page 82.

[V. 2166.]

Fig. 2. Ruffordia Oopperti (Dunk.). Pieces of pinnae. P. 82.

[V. 2155a.]

Fig. 3. Ruffordia Oopperti (Dunk.).

A. Single ? pinna.

B. Portions of two pinnae with ultimate segments broader
than in the preceding figures, P. 82. [V. 2156.]

Fig. 4. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Part of a frond with broader
segments. P. 82. [V. 2243.]

Fig. 5. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Part of a fertile pinna. P. 83.

[V. 2160.]

B.MWEALDEN PLAJSTTS.

Plate V:

E.C 86 G-.M.Wood-wa-Td del w i Ln We 3 1, We-vnrtfiLn. iwip .

R"lJ."f f or di SL . Seward .

PLATE VI.

Fig. 1. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.), var. latifoUa. Piece of a frond
with pinnules and venation very clearly preserved. Page 85.

Fig. la. A piece of a pinna enlarged to show the venation. P. 85.

[V. 2333.]

Fig. 2. Sphenopteris Fittoni, sp. nov. Two specimens of fronds. P. 107.

[V. 2242.]

Fig. 3. Acrostichopteris Rufordi, sp. nov. Single pinna. P. 61.

[V. 2327«.]

B.M. ''A7E.A1.de IT P1.AHT3.
la

Pla,te VI.

E.C &G.MWooav/a«i d-I ^1 Jith

Ruffopdia. SpKenopteris,

PLATE VII.

Fig. 1. Sphempteris Fittoni, sp. nov. Part of a frond with more
divided pinnules than in PI. VI. Fig. 2. Page 110.

[V. 2327.]

Fig. 2, Sphenopteris Fontainei, sp. nov. Portion of pinna or small
frond. P. 106. [V. 2155.]

Fig. 3. Cladophlebis Dunkeri (Schimp.). Frond fragments showing
passage from bipinnate to tripinnate form. P. 103.

[V. 2377.]

Fig. 4. Cladophlebis Browniana (Dunker). Piece of a bipinnate
frond. P. 100. [V. 2198.]

Fig. 5. Nathorstia valdensis, gen. et sp. nov. Part of a bipinnate
? frond. P. 147. [V. 2809.]

B.14:.WEA.LiDEN PLANTS.

Plate YTL.

E.C &o G M Woo dwax-d dsL. et litk.

'West.,Nev«-ru..^axiin.p.

Sphenopteris, Cladophiebis,

PLATE VIII.

Cladophlehis Alhertsii (Dunk). Large specimen of frond; two-thirds
natural size. From a photograph by Mr. Gepp. Page 96.

[V. 2794.]

B. M. Wealden Plants.

Plate VIII.

A. Gepp phot, ad nat.

Cladophlebis Albertsii (Dunk.).

PLATE IX.

Fig. 1. Cladophlehia lo/bgipennia, sp. nov. Single pinna. Page 89.

Fig. la. Pinnule enlarged, showing venation very clearly. P. 89.

[V. 2204.]

Fig. 2. Nathorstia valdensis, gen. et sp. nov. Part of a frond. P. 147.

Fig. 2a. Three pinnules enlarged ; no distinct veins shown. P. 147.

[V. 2376.]

Fig. 3. Tcmiopteris Beyrichii (Schenk). Imperfect frond. P. 126.

Fig. 3a. Part of the leaf showing venation more clearly. P. 126.

[V. 2381.]

Fig. 4. Sag&fiopteris MantelU (Dunk.). Four leaflets in their natural
position ; the fifth, or middle one of the three uppermost,
being a detached leaflet from another frond. P. 133. [V. 2272.]

Fig. 5. Sagenopteris MantelU (Dunk.). Single leaflet showing venation
very clearly. Slightly enlarged. P. 133. [V. 2353.]

Fig. 6. Phyllopteris acutifolia, sp. nov. Imperfect leaf. P. 143.

[V. 2816.]

B . M .Will. A L D EM P i , A Tf T S .

Plate IX.

^

2a,

CladopJnlebis, Natkorstia&o Sageriopteris.

PLATE X.

Fig. 1. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Rhizome and portions of fronds.
Page 83. [V. 2731.]

Fig. 2. Ruffordia Gopperti (Dunk.). Part of rhizome and petioles.
P. 83. [V. 2812.]

Fig. 3. Weichselia Mantelli (Brong.). Large specimen of frond, long
pinnte with inclined pinnules. P. 119. [V. 2630.]

B.Ivt.'WEAX.DETsr PIxANTS.

Plate X.

-\

\

.J &- G. M TV^/oodwa-X-d dei.ev a.

West,N«

P.^affordia. &o WeicKselia.

PLATE XL

Fig. L Protoptens Witteana, Schenk. Portion of a stem axis showiDg
leaf-hases and adventitious roots, etc. Page 73.

Probably Mantell Coll.

Fig. 2. The upper surface of Fig. 1 showing the form and arrangement
of the vascular bundles. P. 73.

Fig. 3. A single leaf-scar with the characteristic leaf-trace bundle.
P. 73.

Fig. 4. Small piece of a stem vascular bundle. Magnified 45 times.
P. 73.

( «. = Tissue between leaf- bases.
h. = Limit of Phloem.
p. = Portions of the stem vascular bundles passing out

to the petioles.
r. = Adventitious roots,
•s. =Sclerenchyma,
t. = Leaf- trace.

B MW£lA.I.i:jEN TnL-ftJNTS,

Plate yi.

^^^

W'...

a, p

E.C &<.G.MWooA-wa^A aj..et2-iilv..

West. Ne-wma.n- xnxf .

^!mi?=:

22 SEP. 1900

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morphcB : Part IV., containing the concluding portion of
the family Timeliidat) (Babbling Thrushes). By R.
Bowdler Sharpe. Pp. xvi., 698. Woodcuts* and 15
coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1883, 8vo. 1/. Qs.

Vol. VIII. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching
Birds, in the Collection of the British Museum. Cichlo-
morphce : Part V., containing the families Paridae and
Laniidse (Titmice and Shrikes) ; and Certhiomorphce
(Creepers and Nuthatches). By Hans Gradow, M.A.,
Ph.D. Pp. xiii., 386. Woodcuts and 9 coloured Plates.
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1883,
8vo. lis.

Vol. IX. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching Birds,
in the Collection of the British Museum. Cinnyrimorphce^
containing the families Nectariniidae and Meliphagidge
(Sun Birds and Honey-eaters). By Hans Gradow, M*.A.,
Ph.D. Pp. xii., 310. Woodcuts and 7 coloured Plates.
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1884,
8vo. 14*.

Vol. X. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching Birds,
in the Collection of the British Museum. Fringilliformes :
Pait I., containing the families Dicseidae, Hirundinidae,
Ampelidae, Mniotiltidae, and Motacillidae. By R. Bowdler
Sharpe. Pp. xiii., 682. Woodcuts and 12 coloured Plates,
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1885.
8vo. 1/. 2s.

Vol. XL Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching Birds,
in the Collection of the British Museum. Fringillifonnes :
Part II., containing the families Coerebidse, Tanagridae,
and Icteridse. By Philip Lutley Sclater, M.A., F.R.S.
Pp. xvii., 431. [With Systematic and Alphabetical
Indexes.] Woodcuts and 18 coloured Plates. 1886, 8vo. 1 /.

Vol. XII. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching
Birds, in the Collection of the British Museum. Fringilli-
formes : Part HI., containing the family Fringillidae. By
R. Bowdler Sharpe. Pp. xv., 871. Woodcuts and 16
coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1888, 8vo. 1/. 8^.

Vol. XIII. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching
Birds, in the Collection of the British Museum. Sturni-

A 2

4 LIST OF PUJ3L1CAT10NS OF THE

Catalogue of the Birds in the British Museum — continued.

formes, containing the families Artamidae, Sturnidae,
PioceidoB, and Alaudidae. Also the families Atrichiidae
and MenuridaB. By E,. Bowdler Sharpe. Pp. xvi., 701.
Woodcuts and 15 coloured Plat«s. [With Systematic
and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1890, 8vo., ll.^s.

Vol. XTV. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching
Birds, in the Collection of the British Museum. Oligo-
myodcB, or the families Tyrannidae, Oxyrhamphidae,
PipridaB, Cotingidae, Phytotomidae, Philepittidae, Pittidae,
Xenicidae, and Eurylaemidae. By Philip Lutiey Sclater,
M.A., F.R.S. Pp. xix., 494. Woodcuts and 26 coloured
•Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.]
1888, 8vo. 1/.45.

Vol. XV. Catalogue of the Passeriformes, or Perching
Birds, in the Collection of the British Museum. Tracheo-
phoncB, or the families Dendrocolaptidae, Formicariidae,
Conopophagidae, and Pteroptochidae. By Philip Lutiey
Sclater, M.A., F.R.S. Pp. xvii., 371. Woodcuts and 20
coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1890, ^vo. 11.

Vol. XVI, Catalogue of the Picariae in the Collection of
the British Museum. Upupce and Trochili, by Osbert
Salvin. CoracicB, of the families Cypselidae, Caprimul-
gidar, Podargidai, and Steatornithidas, by Ernst Hartert
Pp. xvi. 703. Woodcuts and 14 coloured Plates.
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1892,
8vo. 1/. 16*.

Vol. XVII. Catalogue of the Picavia? in the Collection of
the British Museum. Coracice (contin.) and Halcyones,
with the families Leptosomatidae, Coraciidae, Meropidas,
Alcedinidae, Momotida^, Totidfc, and Coliidae, by
R. Bowdler Sharpe. Bucerotes and Trogones, by
W. R. Ogih ie Grant. Pp. xi., 522. Woodcuts and 17
coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1892, 8vo. U. VOs.

Vol. XVIII. Catalogue of the Picariae in the Collection of
the British Museum. Scansores, containing the family
Picidae. By Edward Hargitt. Pp. xv., 597. Woodcuts
and 15 coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1890, 8vo. 1/. 6*.

Vol. XIX. Catalogue of the Picariae in the Collection of
the British Museum. Scansores and Coccyges : containing
the families Rhamphastid;e, Galbulidae, and Bucconidae,
by P. L. Sclater ; and the families Indicatoridae,Capitonidae,
Cuculidje, and Musophagidae, by G. E. Shelley. Pp. xii.,
484: 13 coloured Plates. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1891, 8vo. \l.6s.

Vol. XX. Catalogue of the Psittaci, or Parrots, in the
Collection of the British Museum. By T. Salvadori.

BKITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 5

Pp. xvii., 658 : woodcuts and 18 coloured Plates. [With
Systematic aud Alphabetical Indexes.] 1891, 8vo. 1/. 10*.

Vol. XXI. Catalogue of the Columbae, or Pigeons, in
the Collection of the British Museum. By T. Salvadori.
Pp. xvii., 676 : 15 coloured plates. [With Systematic
and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1893, 8vo. ]/. lO*.

Vol. XXII. Catalogue of the Game Birds {Pterocletes,
Gallhicc, Ojyisthocomi, Hemipodil), in the Collection
of the British Museum. By W. R. OgUvie Grant.
Pp. xvi., 585 : 8 coloured plates. [With Systematic
and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1893, 8vo. 1/. 6s.

Hand-List of Genera and Species of Birds, distinguishing those
contained in the British Museum. By G. B. Gray, F.R.S.,
&c. : —

Part II. Conirostres, Scansores, Columbae, and Gallinse.
Pp. XV., 278. [Table of Genera and Subgenera: Part II.]
1870, 8vo. 6$,
Part III. Struthiones, Grallse, and Anseres, with Indices
of Generic and Specific Names. Pp. xi., 350. [Table of
Genera and Subgenera: Part III.] 1871, 8vo. 8*.
List of the Specimens of Birds in the Collection of the British
Museum. By George Robert Gray : —

Part III., Sections III. and IV. Capitonidae and Picidae.

[With Index.] Pp. 137. 1868, 12mo. 1*. 6d.
Part IV. Columbse. [With Index.] Pp. 73. 1856,

12mo. ]5. 9^.
Part V. Gallinje. Pp. iv., 120. [With an Alphabetical
Index.] 1867, 12rao. 1*. 6d.
Catalogue of the Birds of the Tropical Islands of the Pacific
Ocean in the Collection of the British Museum. By George
Robert Gray, F.L.S., &c. Pp. 72. [With an Alphabetical
Index.] 1859, 8vo. 1.9. 6d.

REPTILES.

Catalogue of the Tortoises, Crocodiles, and Amphisbaenians in the
Collection of the British Museum. By Dr. J. E. Gray,
F.R.S., &c. Pp. viii., 80. [With an Alphabetical Index.]
1844, 12mo., 1*.
Catalogue of Shield Reptiles in the Collection of the British
Museum. By John Edward Gray, F.R.S., &c. : —

Part I. Testudinata (Tortoises). Pp. 79. 50 plates.

1855, 4to. 21. 105.
Supplement. With Figures of the Skulls of 36 Genera.

Pp. ix., 120. 40 Woodcuts. 1870, 4to. 10*.
Appendix. Pp. 28. 1872, 4tc. 2s. 6d.
Part II. Emydosaurians, Rhynchocephalia, and Amphis-
bfenians. Pp. vi., 41. 25 Woodcuts. 1872, 4to. 3s. 6d.

6 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS OF THE

Hand-List of the Specimens of Shield Reptiles in the British
Museum. Bv Dr. J. E. Gray, F.R.S., F.L.S., &c. Pp. iv.,
124. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1873, 8vo. 4*.

Catalogue of the Chelonians, Rhynchocephalians, and Crocodiles
in the British Museum CNatural History). New Edition. By
George Albert Boulenger. Pp. x., 311. 73 Woodcuts and 6
Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1889,
8vo. 15*.

Gigantic Land Tortoises (living and extinct) in the Collection of
the British Museum. By Albert C. L. G. Giinther, M.A., M.D.,
Ph.D., F.R.S. Pp. iv., 96. 55 Plates, and two Charts of the
Aldabra group of Islands, north-west of Madagascar. [With a
Systematic Synopsis of the Extinct and Living Gigantic Land
Tortoises.] 1877, 4to. II. lOs.

Catalogue of the Lizards in the British Museum (Natural His-
tory). Second edition. By George Albert Boulenger : —

Vol. I. Geckonidae, EublepharidsB, UroplatidaB, Pygo-
podidse, Agamidae. Pp. xii., 436. 32 Plates. [With
Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1885, 8vo. 20s.

Vol. II. Iguanidse, Xenosauridae, Zonuridae, Anguidae,
Anniellidae, Helodermatidae, Varanidae, Xantusiidae,
Teiidae, AmphisbaenidaB. Pp. xiii., 497. 24 Plates.
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1885,
8vo. 20s.

Vol. III. Lacertidae, Gerrhosauridae, Scincidae, Anelytro-
pidae, Dibamidae, Chamaeleontidae. Pp. xii., 575. 40
Plates. [With a Systematic Index and an Alphabetical
Index to the three volumes.] 1887, 8vo. 1/. 6s.

Catalogue of the Snakes in the British Museum (Natural His-
tory) . Vol. I., containing the families Typhlopidae, Glauconiidas,
Boidae, Ilysiidae, Uropeltidss, Xenopeltidae, and Colubridae
aglyphae, part. By George Albert Boulenger. Pp. xiii., 448.
26 Woodcuts and 28 plates. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1893, 8vo. 1/. Is.

Catalogue of Colubrine Snakes in the Collection of the British
Museum. By Dr. Albert Giinther. Pp. xvi., 281. [With
Geographical, Systematic, and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1858,
12mo. 45.

BATRACHIANS.

Catalogue of the Batrachia Salientia in the Collection of the
British Museum. By Dr. Albert Giinther. Pp. xvi., 160. 12
Plates. [With Systematic, Geographical, and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1858, 8vo. 6s.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 7

Catalogue of the Batrachia Salientia, s. Ecaudata, in the Collection
of the British Museum. Second Edition. By George Albert
Boulenger. Pp. xvi., 503. Woodcuts and 30 Plates. [With
Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1882, 8vo. 1/. 10*.

Catalogue of the Batrachia Gradientia, s. Caudata, and Batrachia
Apoda in the Collection of the British Museum. Second
edition. By George Albert Boulenger. Pp. viii., 127. 9
Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1882,
8vo. 9s,

FISHES.

Catalogue of the Fishes in the Collection of the British Museum.
By Dr. Albert Giinther, F.R.S., &c. :—

Vol. III. Acanthopterygii (Gobiidse, Discoboli, Oxuder-
cidee, Batrachidae, Pediculati, Blenniidse, Acanthoclinidae,
Comephoridae, Trachypteridae, Lophotidao, Teuthididae,
Acronuridae, Hoplognathidae, Malacanthidae, Nandidge,
PolycentridsB, Labyrinthici, Luciocephalidas, Atherinidse,
Mugilidae, Ophiocephalidae, Trichonotidse, Cepolidae,
GobiesocidflD, Psychrolutidae, Centriscidae, Fistularidae,
Mastacembelidae, Notacanthi). Pp. xxv., 586. Wood-
cuts. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes, and
a Systematic Synopsis of the families of the Acanthop-
terygian Fishes.] 1861, 8vo., 10*. 6d.

Vol. IV. Acanthopterygii pharyngognathi and Anacan-
thini. Pp. xxi., 534. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1862, 8vo. 8*. 6d.

Vol. V. Physostomi (Siluridse, Characinidse, Haplochi-
tonidae, Sternoptychidae, Scopelidse, Stomiatidas). Pp.
xxii., 455. Woodcuts. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1864, 8vo. 8s.

Vol. VII. Physostomi (Heterophygii, Cyprinidae, Gono-
rhynchidse, Hyodontidae, Osteoglossidae, Clupeidae,
Chirocentridae, Alepocephalidae, Notopteridae, Halo-
sauridae). Pp. xx., 512. Woodcuts. [With System-
atic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1868, 8vo. 8*.

Vol. VIII. Physostomi (Gymnotidae, Symbranchidae,
Muraenidae, Pegasidae), Lophobranchii, Plectognathi,
Dipnoi, Ganoidei, Chondropterygii, Cyclostomata, Lep-
tocardii. Pp. xxv., 549. [With Systematic and Alpha-
betical Indexes.] 1870, 8vo. 8*. 6d.
List of the Specimens of Fish in the Collection of the British
Museum. Part I. Chondropterygii. By J. E. Gray. Pp. x.,
160. 2 Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.]
1851, 12mo. 3s.

Catalogue of l^ish collected and described by Laurence Theodore
Gronow, now in the British Museum. Pp. vii., 196. [With a
Systematic Index.] 1854, 12mo. 3s. Gd.

O LIST OF PUBLICATIONS OF THE

Catalogtie of Lophobranchiate Fisli in the Collection of the British
Museum. By J. J. Kaup, Ph.D., &c. Pp. iv., 80. 4 Plates.
[With an Alphabetical Index.] 1856, 12mo. 2*.

MOLLUSCA.

Guide to the Systematic Distribution of Mollusca in the British
Museum. Part I. By John Edward Gray, Ph.D., F.R.S.,
&c. Pp. xii., 230. 121 Woodcuts. 1857, 8vo. 5*.

Catalogue of the Collection of Mazatlan Shells in the British
Museum, collected by Frederick Eeigen. Described by Philip
P. Carpenter. Pp. xvi., 552. 1857, 12mo. 8*.

List of Mollusca and Shells in the Collection of the British
Museum, collected and described by MM. Eydoux and Souleyet
in the ** Voyage autour du Monde, execute pendant les annees
** 1836 et 1837, sur la Corvette ' La Bonite,' " and in the
" Histoire naturelle des Mollusques Pteropodes," Par MM.
P. C. A. L. Rang et Souleyet. Pp. iv., 27. 1855, 12mo. Sd.

Catalogue of Pulmonata, or Air Breathing Mollusca, in the Col-
lection of the British Museum. Part I. By Dr. Louis Pfeiifer.
Pp. iv., 192. Woodcuts. 1855, 12mo. 2*. 6d.

Catalogue of the Auriculidae, Proserpinidse, and Truncatellidse in
the Collection of the British Museum. By Dr. Louis Pfeiffer.
Pp. iv., 150. Woodcuts. 1857, 12mo. I*. 9d.

List of the Mollusca in the Collection of the British Museum. By
John Edward Gray, Ph.D., F.R.S., &c.

Parti Volutid^. Pp. 23. 1855, 12mo. 6d.
Part II. Olividge. Pp. 41. 1865, 12mo. 1*.

Catalogue of the Conchifera, or Bivalve Shells, in the Collection of
the British Museum. By M. Deshayes : —

Part 1. VeneridaB, Cyprinidse, Glauconomidae, and Petri-

coladse. Pp. iv., 216. 1853, 12mo. 35.
Part II. Petricoladas (concluded) ; Corbiculadae. Pp.
217-292. [With an Alphabetical Index to the two
parts.] 1854, 12mo. Gd.

BRACHIOPODA.

Catalogue of Brachiopoda Ancjlopoda, or Lamp Shells in the
Collection of the British Museum. [Issued as " Catalogue of
the Mollusca, Part IV."] Pp. iv., 128. 25 Woodcuts. [With
an Alphabetical Index.] 1853, 12mo. 3*.

POLYZOA.

Catalogue of Marine Polyzoa in the Collection of the British
Museum. Part III. Cyclostomata. By George Busk, F.R.S.
Pp viii., 39. 38 Platos. [With a Systematic Index.] 1875,

Svo. 5.V.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY).

CRUSTACEA.

Catalogue of Crustacea in the Collection of the British Museum.
Parti. Leucosiadae. By Thomas Bell, V.P.R.S., Pres. L.S.,
&c. Pp. iv., 24. 1855, 8vo. Qd.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Amphipodoiis Crustacea in the
Collection of the British Museum. By C. Spence Bate, F.R.S.,
&c. Pp. iv., 399. 58 Plates. [With an Alphabetical Index.]
1862, 8vo. 1/. 5*.

INSECTS,

Coleopterous Insects.

Nomenclature of Coleopterous Insects in the Collection of the
British Museum : —

Part V. Cucujidae, &c. By Frederick Smith. \^Also issued
as " List of the Coleopterous Insects. Part I."]
Pp. 25. 1851, 12mo.6c?.

Part VI. Passalidae. By Frederick Smith. Pp. iv., 23.
1 Plate. [Wir,h Index.] 1852, 12mo. ^d.

Part VII. Longicornia, I. By Adam White. Pp. iv., 174.
4 Plates. 1853, 12mo. 25. Qd.

Part VIII. Longicornia, II. By Adam White. Pp. 237.
6 Plates. 1855, 12mo. 3*. 6d.

Part IX. Cassididae. By Charles H. Boheman, Professor of
Natural History, Stockholm. Pp. 225. [With Index.]
1856, 12mo. 3*.

Illustrations of Typical Specimens of Coleoptera in the Collection
of the British Museum. Part I. Lycidse. By Charles Owen
Waterhouse. Pp. x., 83. 18 coloured Plates. [With Syste-
matic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1879, 8vo. 16*.

Catalogue of the Coleopterous Insects of Madeira in the Collection
of the British Museum. By T. Vernon Wollaston, M.A., F.L.S.
Pp. xvi., 234 : 1 plate. [With a Topographical Catalogue and
an Alphabetical Index.] 1857, 8vo. 3^.

Catalogue of the Coleopterous Insects of the Canaries in the Collec-
tion of the British Museum. By T. Vernon WoUaston, M.A.,
F.L.S. Pp. xiii., 648. [With Topographical and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1864, 8vo. 10*. Qd.

Catalogue of Halticidae in the Collection of the British Museum.
By the Rev. Hamlet Clark, M.A., F.L.S. Physapodes and
(Edipodes. Parti. Pp. xii., 301. Frontispiece and 9 Plates.
1860, 8vo. Is.

Catalogue of Hispidae in the Collection of the British Museum.
By Joseph S. Baly, M.E.S., &c. Part I. Pp. x., 172. 9

Plates. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1858, 8vo. 6.9.

a 80204. A 5

10 LIST OP PUBLICATIONS OF THE

Hymenopterous Insects.

Catalogue of Hymenopterous Insects in the Collection of the
British Museum. By Frederick Smith. 12mo. : —

Parti. Andrenidse and Apidse. Pp.197. 6 Plates. 1853,

Part II. Apid{e. Pp. 199-4(;5. 0 IMates. [With an

Alphabetical Index.] 1854, 0.?.
Part III. Mutillidaft and Pompilidae. Pp. 206. 6 Plates.

1855, 65.
Part IV. Sphegidae, Larridae, and Crabronidas. Pp. 207-

497. 6 Plates. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1856,

Qs.
Part V. Vespidse. Pp. 147. 6 Plates. [With an Alpha-
betical Index.] 1857, Qs.
Part VI. Formicidse. Pp. 216. 14 Plates. [With an

Alphabetical Index.] 1858,6*.
Part VII. Dorylidae and Thynnidae. Pp. 76. 3 Plates.

[With an Alphabetical Index.] 1859, 2*.

Descriptions of New Species of Hymenoptera in the Collection
of the British Museum. By Frederick Smith. Pp. xxi., 240.
[With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1879, 8vo. 10*.

List of Hymenoptera, with descriptions and figures of the Typical
Specimens in the British Museum. Vol. I., Tenthredinidae and
Siricidae. By W. F, Kirby. Pp. xxviii., 450. 16 coloured
Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1882,
8vo. 1/. 18*.

Dipterous Insects.

List of the Specimens of Dipterous Insects in the Collection of
the British Museum. By Francis Walker, F.L.S. 12mo. :—
Part II. Pp. 231-484. 1849. 3*. Qd.
Part IV. Pp. 689-1172. [With an index to the four

parts, and an Index of Donors.] 1849. 6.s.
Part V. Supplement I. Stratiomidse, Xylophagidas, and

Tabanid^. Pp. iv., 330. 2 Cuts. 1854. 4*. 6d.
Part VI. Supplement II. Acroceridae and part of the

family Asilidae. Pp. ii., 331-506. 8 Cuts. 1854. 3*.
Part VII. Supplement III. Asilidae. Pp. ii., 507-775

1855. 3*. Qd.

Lepidopterous Insects.

Illustrations of Typical Specimens of Lepidoptera Heterocera in
the Collection of the British Museum : —

Part I. By Arthur Gardiner Butler. Pp. xiii., 62. 20
Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic Index.] 1877,
4to. 21.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 11

Illustrations of Typical Specimens of Lepidoptera Ileterocera,
&c. — continued.

Part III. By Arthur Gardiner Butler. Pp. xviii., 82.

41-60 Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic Index.]

1879, 4to. 21. lOs.
Part V. By Arthur Gardiner Butler. Pp. xii., 74.

78-100 Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic Index.]

1881, 4to. 21. 105.
Part VI. By Arthur Gardiner Butler. Pp. xv., 89.

101-120 Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic Index.]

1886, 4to. 21. 45.
Part VII. By Arthur Gardiner Butler. Pp. iv., 124.

121-138 Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic List.]

1889, 4to. 21.
Part VIII. The Lepidoptera Heterocera of the Nilgiri

District. By George Francis Hampson. Pp. iv., 144.

139-156 Coloured Plates. [With a Systematic List.]

1891, 4to. 21.
Part IX. The Macrolepidoptora Heterocera of Ceylon.

By George Francis Hampson. Pp. v., 182. 157-176

Coloured Plates. [With a General Systematic List of

Species collected in, or recorded from, Ceylon.] 1893,

4to. 21. 2s.

Catalogue of Diurnal Lepidoptera of the family Satyridas in the
Collection of the British Museum. By Arthur Gardiner Butler,
F.L.S., &c. Pp. vi., 211. 5 Plates. [With an Alphabetical
Index.] 1868, 8vo. 5s. Qd.

Catalogue of Diurnal Lepidoptera described by Fabricius in the
Collection of the British Museum. By Arthur Gardiner Butler,
F.L.S., &c. Pp. iv., 303. 3 Plates. 1869, 8vo. 7*. 6d.

Specimen of a Catalogue of Lycsenidae in the British Museum. By
W. C. Hewitson. Pp. 15. 8 Coloured Plates. 1862, 4to. 1/. \s.

List of Lepidopterous Insects in the Collection of the British
Museum. Part I. Papilionidre. By G. R. Gray, F.L.S.
Pp. 106. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1856, 12mo. 2s.

List of the Specimens of Lepidopterous Insects in the Collection
of the British Museum. By Francis Walker. 12mo. : —

Part VI. Lepidoptera Heterocera. Pp. 1258-1507. 1855,
35. Qd.

Part XIX. Pyralides. Pp. 799-1036. [With an Alpha-
betical Index to Parts XVI.-XIX.] 1859, 35. Qd.

Part XX. Geometrites. Pp. 1-276. 1860, 45.

Part XXI. Pp. 277-498. 1860, 3*.

Part XXII. Pp. 499-755. 1861, Ss. Qd.

Part XXIII. Pp. 756-1020. 1861, 35. Qd.

Part XXrV. Pp. 1021-1280. 1S62, 35. Qd.

Part XXV. Pp. 1281-1477. 1862,35.

Part XXVI. Pp. 1478-1796. [With an

Alphabetical Index to Parts XX.-XXVI.] 1862,
45. Qd.

Pp. 1-321.

, 1864, 6s.

Part 2.

Pp. 322-706.

Part 3.

Pp. 707-1120.

Part 4.

Pp. 1121-1533.

Part 5.

Pp. 1534-2040.

12 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS OF THE

List of the Specimens of Lepidopterous Insects, &c. — contimied.

Part XXVII. Crambites and Tortricites. Pp. 1-286.
1863, 45.

Part XXVIII. Tortricites and Tineites. Pp. 287-561.
1863, 45.

Part XXIX. Tineites. Pp. 562-835. 1864, 4s.

Part XXX. Pp. 836-1096. [With an Alpha-
betical Index to Parts XXVII.-XXX.] 1864, 4*.

Part XXXI. Supplement.

Part XXXII.

1865, 55.

Part XXXIII.

1865, Qs.

Part XXXIV.

1865, 55. Qd.
Part XXXV.

[With an Alphabetical Index to Parts XXXI.-XXXV.]

1866, 75.

Neuropterous Insects.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Neuropterous Insects in the Collec-
tion of the British Museum. By Francis Walker. 12mo. : —
Part I. (Phryganides— Perlides.) Pp. iv., 192. 1852,

25. Qd.
Part II. Sialidae — N'emopterides. Pp. ii., 193-476.

1853, 35. Qd.
Part III. Termitidse — Ephemeridae. Pp. ii., 477-585.

1853, l5. Qd.
Part IV. Odonata. Pp. ii., 587-658. 1853, l2mo. l5.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Neuropterous Insects in the Col-
lection of the British Museum. By Dr. H. Hagen. Part I.
Termitina. Pp. 34. 1858, ]2mo. Qd.

Orthopterous Insects.

Catalogue of Orthopterous Insects in the Collection of the British
Museum. Part I. Phasmidae. By John Obadiah Westwood,
F.L.S., &c. Pp. 195. 48 Plates. [With an Alphabetical
Index.] 1859, 4to. 3/.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Blattariae in the Collection of the
British Museum. By Francis Walker, F.L.S., &c. Pp. 239.
[With an Alphabetical Index.] 1868, 8vo. 55. Qd.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Dermaptera Saltatoria [Part I.]
and Supplement to the Blattariae in the Collection of the British
Museum. Gryllidae. Blattariae. Locustidae. By Francis
Walker, F.L.S., &c. ' Pp. 224. [With an Alphabetical Index.]
1869, 8vo. 55.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 13

Catalogue of the Specimens of Dermaptera Saltatoria in the
Collection of the British Museum, By Francis Walker,
F.L.S., Ac-
Part II. Locustidae (continued). Pp. 225-423. [With

an Alphabetical Index.] 1869, 8vo. 4^. Gd.
Part III. Locustidae (continued). — Acrididae. Pp. 425-

604. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1870, 8vo. 4*.
Part IV. Acrididse (continued). Pp. 605-809. [With

an Alphabetical Index.] 1870, 8vo. 6s.
Part V. Tettigidae. — Supplement to the Catalogue of Blat-
tariae. — Supplement to the Catalogue of Dermaptera
Saltatoria (with remarks on the Greographical Distribution
of Dermaptera). Pp. 811-850; 43; 116. [With
Alphabetical Indexes.] 1870, 8vo. 6s.

Hemipterous Insects.

List of the Specimens of Hemipterous Insects in the Collection of
the British Museum. By W. S. Dallas, F.L.S. :—
Part I. Pp. 368. 11 Plates. 1851, 12mo. 7^.
Part II. Pp. 369-590. Plates 12-15. 1852, 12mo. 4*.

Catalogue of the Specimens of Heteropterous Hemiptera in the
Collection of the British Museum. By Francis Walker, F.L.S. ,
&c. 8vo. : —

Part I. Scutata. Pp. 240. 1867. 6s.
Part II. Scutata (continued). Pp. 241-417. 1867. 4*.
Part III. Pp. 418-599. [With an Alphabetical Index to
Parts I., II., III., and a Summary of Geographical
Distribution of the Species mentioned.] 1868. 4*. 6d.
Part IV. Pp.211. [Alphabetical Index.] 1871. 6*.

PartV. Pp.202. 1872. 6s.

Part VI. Pp. 210. 1873. 6s.

Part VII. Pp. 213. 1873. 6^.

Part VIII. Pp. 220. 1873. 6s. 6d.

Homopterous Insects.

List of the Specimens of Homopterous Insects in the Collection of
the British Museum. By Francis Walker. Supplement. Pp.
ii., 369. [With an Alphabetical Index.] 1858, 12mo. 4*. 6d.

VERMES.

Catalogue of the Species of Entozoa, or Intestinal Worms, con-
tained in the Collection of the British Museum. By Dr. Baird.
Pp. iv., 132. 2 Plates. [With an Index of the Animals in
which the Entozoa mentioned in the Catalogue are found ; and
an Index of Genera and Species.] 1853, 12mo. 2s.

14 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS OF THE

ANTHOZOA.

Catalogue of Sea-peus or Pennatulariidae in the Collection of the
British Museum. By J. E. Gray, F.R.S., &c. Pp. iv., 40.
2 Woodcuts. 1870, 8vo. 1*. 6d.

Catalogue of Lithophytes or Stony Corals in the Collection of the
British Museum. By J. E. Gray, F.R.S., &c. Pp. iv., 51.
14 Woodcuts. 1870, 8vo. 3*.

Catalogue of the Madreporarian Corals in the British Museum
(Natural History). Vol. I. The Genus Madrepora. By
George Brook. Pp. xi., 212. 35 Collotype Plates. [With
Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes, Explanation of Plates,
and a Preface by Dr. Giinther.] 1893, 4to. 1^. 4a*.

BRITISH ANIMALS.

Catalogue of British Birds in the Collection of the British
Museum. By George Robert Gray, F.L.S., F.Z.S., &c. Pp.
xii., 248. [With a List of Species.] 1863, 8vo. 3*. 6d.

Catalogue of British Hymenoptera in the Collection of the British
Museum. Second edition. Part I. Andrenidse and ApidaB.
By Frederick Smith, M.E.S. New Issue. Pp. xi. 236. 11
Plates. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1891,
8vo. 65.

Catalogue of British Fossorial Hymenoptera, Formicidse, and
Vespidae in the Collection of the British Museum. By Frederick
Smith, V,P.E.S. Pp. 236. 6 Plates. [With an Alphabetical

Index.] 1858, 12mo. 6s.

A Catalogue of the British Non-parasitical Worms in the Collec-
tion of the British Museum. By George Johnston, M.D., Edin.,
F.R.C.L.Ed., Ll.D. Marischal Coll. Aberdeen, &c. Pp. 365.
Woodcuts and 24 Plates. [With an Alphabetical Index.]
1865, 8vo. 7*.

Catalogue of the British Echinoderms in the British Museum
(Natural History). By F. Jeffrey Bell, M. A. Pp. xvii. 202.
Woodcuts and 16 Plates (2 coloured). [With Table of Con-
tents, Tables of Distribution, AlphalDetical Index, Description
of the Plates, &c.] 1892, 8vo. 12*. 6d.
List of the Specimens of British Animals in the Collection of the
British Museum; with Synonyma and References to figures.
12mo. :—

Part V. Lepidoptera. By J. F. Stephens. 1850. 2nd
Edition. By H. T. Stainton and E. Shepherd. Pp. iv.
224. 1856, 12mo. Is. 9d.
Part VII. Mollusca, Acephala, and Brachiopoda. By

Dr. J. E. Gray. Pp. iv., 167. 1851, 12mo. 3^. 6d.
Part XI. Anoplura or Parasitic Insects. By H. Denny.
Pp.iv., 51. 1852,1.9.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 15

List of the Specimens of British Animals, &c. — continued.

Part XIII. Nomenclature of Hymenoptera. By Frederick

Smith. Pp. iv., 74. 1853, 12mo. 1*. -id.
Part XIV. Nomenclature of ISTeuroptera. By Adam

White. Pp. iv., 16. 1853, 12mo. Qd.
Part XV. ISTomenclature of Diptera, I. By Adam White.

Pp. iv., 42. 1853, 12mo. 1*.

PLANTS.

List of British Diatomaceae in the Collection of the British Museum.
By the Rev. W. Smith, F.L.S., &c. Pp. iv., 55. 1859, 12mo. 1*.

FOSSILS.

Catalogue of the Fossil Mammalia in the British Museum (Natural
History). By Richard Lydekker, B.A., F.a.S. :—

Part I. Containing the Orders Primates, Chiroptera, Insec-
tivora, Carnivora, and Rodentia. Pp. xxx., 268. 33
Woodcuts. [With Systematic and Alphabetical Indexes.]
1885, 8vo. Qs.

Part II. Containing the Order Ungulata, Suborder Artio-
dactyla. Pp.xxii.,324. 39 Woodcuts. [With Systematic
and Alphabetical Indexes.] 1885, 8vo. 6s.

Part III. Containing the Order Ungulata, Suborders Peris-
sodactyla, Toxodontia, Condylarthra, and Amblypoda.
Pp. xvi., 186. 30 Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index,
and Alphabetical Index of Genera and Species, including
Synonyms.] 1886, 8vo. 4*.

Part IV. Containing the Order Ungulata, Suborder Probos-
cidea. Pp. xxiv.,235. 32 Woodcuts. [With Systematic
Index, and Alphabetical Index of Genera and Species,
including Synonyms.] 1886, 8vo. 5*.

Part V. Containing the Group Tillodontia, the Orders Si-
renia, Cetacea, Edentata, Marsupialia, Monotremata, and
Supplement. Pp. xxxv., 345. 55 Woodcuts. [With
Systematic Index, and Alphabetical Index of Genera and
Species, including Synonyms.] 1887, 8vo. Qs.

Catalogue of the Fossil Birds in the British Museum (Natural
PlisLory). By Richard Lydekker, B.A. Pp. xxvii., 368. 75
Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index, and Alphabetical Index of
Genera and Species, including Synonyms.] 1891, 8vo. 10.9.6^.

Catalogue of the Fossil Reptilia and Amphibia in the British
Museum (Natural History). By Richard Lydekker, B.A.,
F.G.S. :—

Part I. Containing the Orders Ornithosauria, Crocodilia,
Dinosauria, Squamata, Rhynchocephalia, and Protero-
sauria. Pp. xxviii., 309. 69 Woodcuts. [With Sys-
tematic Index, and Alphabetical Index of Genera and
Species, including Synonyms.] 1888, 8vo. 7*. 6d.

16 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS OF THE

Catalogue of the Fossil E-eptilia and Amphibia — continued.

Part II. Containing the Orders Ichthyopterygia and
Sauropterygia. Pp. xxi., 307. 85 Woodcuts. [With
Systematic Index, and Alphabetical Index of Genera and
Species, including Synonyms.] 1889, 8vo. 75. Qd.

Part III. Containing the Order Chelonia. Pp. xviii., 239.
53 Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index, and Alphabetical
Index of Genera and Species, including Synonyms.]
1889, 8vo. 7*. Qd.

Part IV. Containing the Orders Anomodontia, Ecaudata,
Caudata, and Labyrinthodontia ; and Supplement. Pp.
xxiii., 295. 66 Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index,
Alphabetical Index of Genera and Species, including
Synonyms, and Alphabetical Index of Genera and Species
to the entire work.] 1890, 8vo. 7a'. Qd.

Catalogue of the Fossil Fishes in the British Museum (Natural
History). By Arthur Smith Woodward, F.G.S., F.Z.S. :—

Part I. Containing the Elasmobranchii. Pp. xlvii., 474.
13 Woodcuts and 17 Plates. [With Alphabetical Index,
and Systematic Index of Genera and Species.] 1889,
8vo. 2ls.

Part II. Containing the Elasmobranchii (Acanthodii),
Holocephali, Ichthyodorulites, Ostracodermi, Dipnoi, and
Teleostomi (Crossopterygii and Chondrostean Actinop-
terygii). Pp. xliv., 567. 58 Woodcuts and 16 Plates.
[With Alphabetical Index, and Systematic Index of
Genera and Species.] 1891, 8vo. 21*.

Systematic List of the Edwards Collection of British Oligocene
and Eocene MuUusca in the British Museum (Natural History),
with references to the type-specimens from similar horizons
contained in other collections belonging to the Geological
Department of the Museum. By Bichard Bullen Newton,
F.G.S. Pp. xxviii., 365. [With table of Families and Genera,
Bibliography, Correlation-table, Appendix, and Alphabetical
Index.] 1891, 8vo. 6s.

Catalogue of the Fossil Cephalopoda in the British Museum
(Natural History). By Arthur H. Foord, F.G.S. : —

Part I. Containing part of the Suborder Nautiloidea, con-
sisting of the families Orthoceratidae, Endoceratidae,
Actinoceratidae, Gomphoceratidae, Ascoceratidae, Poterio-
ceratidae, CyrtoceratidaB, and Supplement. Pp. xxxi.,
344. 51 Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index, and
Alphabetical Index of Genera and Species, including
Synonyms.] 1888, 8vo. 10.9. 6d.
Part II. Containing the remainder of the Suborder Nauti-
loidea, consisting of the families Lituitidae, Trochocera-
tidae, Nautilidae, and Supplement. Pp. xxviii., 407. 86
Woodcuts. [With Systematic Index, and Alphabetical
Index of Genera and Species, including Synonyms.]
1891, 8vo. 15.V.

BRITISH MUSEUM (NATURAL HISTORY). 17

A Catalogue of British Fossil Crustacea, with their Synonyms and
the Kange in Time of each Genus and Order. By Henry
Woodward, F.R.S. Pp. xii., 155. [With an Alphabetical
Index.] 1877, 8vo. 5*.

Catalogue of the Blastoidea in the Geological Department of the
British Museum (Natural History), with an account of the
morphology and systematic position of the group, and a revision
of the genera and species. By Kobert Etheridge, jun., of the
Department of Geology, British Museum (Natural History),
and P. Herbert Carpenter, D.Sc, F.R.S., F.L.S. (of Eton
College). [With Preface by Dr. H. Woodward, Table of
Contents, General Index, Explanations of the Plates, &c.] Pp.
XV., 322. 20 Plates. 1886, 4to. 25*.

Catalogue of the Fossil Sponges in the Geological Department of
the British Museum (Natural History). With descriptions of
new and little known species. By George Jennings Hinde,
Ph.D., F.G.S. Pp. viii., 248. 38 Plates. [With a Tabular
List of Species, arranged in Zoological aud Stratigraphical
sequence, and an Alphabetical Index.] 1883, 4to. 1/. 10*.

Catalogue of the Fossil Foraminifera in the British Museum
(Natural History). By Professor T. Rupert Jones, F.R.S.,
&c. Pp. xxiv., 100. [With Geographical and Alphabetical
Indexes.] 1882, 8vo. 5s.

Catalogue of the Palaeozoic Plants in the Department of Geology
and Palaeontology, British Museum (Natural History). By
Robert Kidston, F.G.S. Pp. viii., 288. [With a list of works
quoted, and an Index.] 1886, 8vo. 5s.

GUIDE-BOOKS.

( To be obtained only at the Museum.)

A General Guide to the British Museum (Natural History),
Cromwell Road, London, S.W. [By W. H. Flower.] With 2
Plans, 2 views of the building, and an illustrated cover. Pp. 78.
1893, 8vo. Zd.

Guide to the Galleries of Mammalia (Mammalian, Osteological,
Cetacean) in the Department of Zoology of the British Museum
(Natural History). [By A. Giinther.] 4th Edition. Pp. 126.
57 Woodcuts and 2 Plans. Index. 1892, 8vo. Qd.

Guide to the Galleries of Reptiles and Fishes in the Department of
Zoology of the British Museum (Natural History). [By A.
Giinther.] 3rd Edition. Pp. iv. 119. 101 Woodcuts and 1
Plan. Index. * 1893, 8vo. Qd.

Guide to the Shell and Starfish Galleries (MoUusca, Echinoder-
mata. Vermes), in the Department of Zoology of the British
Museum (Natural History). [By A. Giinther.] 2nd Edition.
Pp. iv., 74. 51 Woodcuts and 1 Plan. 1888, 8vo. 4</.

18

A Guide to the Exhibition Galleries of the Department of Geology
and Palaeontology in the British Museum (Natural History),
Cromwell Boad, London, S.W. [New Edition. By Henry
Woodward.] —

Part I. Fossil Mammals and Birds. Pp. xii., 103. 119

Woodcuts and 1 Plan. 1890, 8vo. 6d,
Part II. Fossil Reptiles, Fishes, and Invertebrates. Pp.
xii., 109. 94 Woodcuts and 1 Plan. 1890, 8vo. 6d.

Guide to the Collection ot* Fossil Fishes in the Department of
Geology and Palaeontology, British Museum (Natural History),
Cromwell Road, South Kensington. [By Henry Woodward.]
2nd Edition. Pp. 51. 81 Woodcuts. Index. 1888, 8vo. 4d.

Guide to Sowerby's Models of British Fungi in the Department of
Botany, British Museum (Natural History). By Worthington
G. Smith, F.L.S. Pp. 82. 93 Woodcuts. With Table of
Diagnostic Characters and Index. 1893, 8vo. 4d.

A Guide to the Mineral Gallery of the British Museum (Natural
History). [By L. Fletcher.] Pp. 32. Plan. 1893, 8vo. Id.

An Introduction to the Study of Minerals, with a Guide to the
Mineral Gallery of the British Museum (Natural History),
Cromwell Road, S.W. [By L. Fletcher.] Pp. 120. With
numerous Diagrams, a Plan of the Mineral Gallery, and an
Index. 1894, 8vo. 6d.

The Student's Index to the Collection of Minerals, British Museum
(Natural History). New Edition. Pp. 32. With a Plan of
the Mineral Gallery. 1893, 8vo. 2d,

An Introduction to the Study of Meteorites, with a List of the
Meteorites represented in the Collection. [By L. Fletcher.]
Pp. 91. [With a Plan of the Mineral Gallery, and an Index to
the Meteorites represented in the Collection.] 1893, 8vo. Sd.

W. H. FLOWER,

Director.
British Museum

(Natural History),
Cromwell Road,
London, S.W.

February i5th, 1894.

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