IV.—On the Fragmentary Remains of an Organism Referable to the Nematophytales, from the Rhynie Chert, Nematoplexus rhyniensis gen. et sp. nov.

Abstract

SynopsisIncomplete, but structurally preserved remains of an organism referable to the Nematophytales Lang, are described from the Rhynie Chert as a new genus and species. The fossil is composed of a plexus of non-septate tubular cells of two types—the smaller having uniformly smooth walls, the larger, walls with conspicuous spiral thickenings. Branching of both types is localized in areas referred to as branch-knots. Comparison is made with other members of the Nematophytales which have been shown to possess differentially thickened tubes.