Glossopterid fructifications from Upper Permian of India: A morphographical correlation

Abstract

Scutum-type female Glossopterid fructification is described from the Raniganj Formation (Upper Permian) of Bhatdih and Murulidih collieries of Jharia Coalfield, Bihar, India. Statistical analysis of shape, apex, base and total number of scars on the receptacle show that majority of specimens are lanceolate in shape and have acute apices. The base is stalked with wide marginal border and usually rounded where margins are absent. Total number of Scars ranges between 20 and 45. The study shows that a number of multiovulate fructification genera, viz., Plumsteadia, Hirsutum, Plumsteadiostrobus, Venustostrobus and jambadostrobus,which have been differentiated on the basis of presence or absence of marginal wings and cuticular features, in all possibilities are related to each other and quite likely represent the developmental or maturation stages of a single type glossopterid fructification.