Frondophyllas grandis
Bamforth & narbonne, 2009
Before being formally named, Frondophyllas was aptly described as the 'Christmas tree' rangeomorph, because it looks just like one. Frondophyllas is incredibly rare, with only two specimens having ever been found, what's more, both of these specimens are incomplete. The unconstrained nature of the branches is most like the (equally rare) multi-polar rangeomorph Hapsidophyllas and unlike any unipolar species. Indeed, the visible and continuous central rod is unlike what we see in other rangeomorphs as well, and is most like the central pedicle rod of Pectinifrons, or, again, the central rod of Hapsidophyllas.
Described from:
Avalon peninsula, Newfoundland
Key papers:
Bamforth and Narbonne, 2009
Diagnosis:
decimeter to meter scale, frond-like fossil with leaflet-bearing branches emerging in slightly offset pairs at regular intervals along a wide, continuous central rod. Branching angle inconsistent along central rod, varying between 50 and 80 degrees. Leaflets lanceolate in shape, composed of wide, straight to curved central stalk with primary branches emerging regularly in pairs, decreasing in length towards distal tip of leaflet.
Described from:
Avalon peninsula, Newfoundland
Key papers:
Bamforth and Narbonne, 2009
Diagnosis:
decimeter to meter scale, frond-like fossil with leaflet-bearing branches emerging in slightly offset pairs at regular intervals along a wide, continuous central rod. Branching angle inconsistent along central rod, varying between 50 and 80 degrees. Leaflets lanceolate in shape, composed of wide, straight to curved central stalk with primary branches emerging regularly in pairs, decreasing in length towards distal tip of leaflet.