2.5" Pennsylvanian Fossil Fern (Mariopteris) - Indiana

Pennsylvanian Fossil Fern (Mariopteris) - Indiana #262502

This is a very nice, 2.5" fern fossil (Mariopteris sp.) from the Dugger Formation of Youngstown, Indiana. Under magnification the detail of this specimen stands out.

An acrylic stand is included for display options.

Mariopteris was a seed fern with relatively small compact fronds which are bifurcated twice. Though most mariopterids are seed ferns, their natural affinity remains unclear. Mariopterids obviously had a climbing growth habit. This species, like other mariopteroids, had a vine-like growth habit and climbed with specialized climber hooks.