Cuticles of Lescuropteris genuinafrom the Stephanian (Upper Carboniferous) of Central France: evidence for a climbing growth habit

Abstract

This paper provides the first description of the cuticles of Lescuropteris genuina, a pteridosperm from the Upper Stephanian of the Blanzy-Montceau Basin, Central France. The status of the genus Lescuropteris, which is often compared with Odontopteris, is discussed. However, cuticles seem to justify a separate status. Of special interest is the discovery of a modified pinna terminal with well developed tendrils, providing evidence that L. genuinahad a climbing growth habit. The ecology of L. genuinais discussed on the basis of new information on the epidermal anatomy.