
Taxonomy of Specimens of the Pennsylvanian-Age Marattialean Fern Psaronius from Ohio and Illinois
Publication Date:
1984
Museum Series:
Scientific Papers
Series Number:
Vol. XIX
Psaronius, a tree fern, was the dominant plant in Late Pennsylvanian coal swamps, comprising as much as 85 to 90 percent of some coals. The first comprehensive review of Psaronius taxonomy is given based upon examination of 136 silicified specimens including several type specimens. Using photographs and drawings, the internal structure and ontogenetic development of various species are illustrated.