Raunsgaardispermum M.M.Mendes, Pais et E.M.Friis

Plant Fossil Names Registry Number: PFN002001

Act LSID: urn:lsid:plantfossilnames.org:act:2001

Authors: M. M. Mendes, J. Pais & E. M. Friis

Rank: genus

Reference: Mendes, M. M., Pais, J. & Friis, E. M. (2008): Raunsgaardispermum lusitanicum gen. et sp. nov., a new seed with in situ pollen from the Early Cretaceous (probably Berriasian) of Portugal: Further support for the Bennettitales-Erdtmanithecales- Gnetales link. – Grana 47(3): 211–219.

Page of description: 213

Type

Original diagnosis/description

Small and bisymmetrical seeds, ovoid to broadly fusiform in lateral view and circular to broadly elliptical in apical view. Thin integument, apically extended into a narrow micropylar tube. Integument completely enclosed in a bipartite outer envelope, except for the micropylar opening. Outer envelope sclerenchymatous with distinct vascular bundles extending from base to apex. Apical papillae line the inner surface of seed envelope. In situ pollen grains monocolpate, tectate and psilate to punctate.

Etymology

In honour of Kaj Raunsgaard Pedersen for his contribution to the study of Cretaceous floras in Portugal.