Coptolithus baticlypeatus
Schematic drawing of Coptolithus baticlypeatus, showing a composite reconstruction derived from the author's observations of morphological features preserved in published SEM images.
Set number: 3222
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Set number: 3223
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1
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2
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3
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4
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5
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7
10µm
Cyclagelosphaera baticlypeata Bukry, 1969
Coptolithus virgatus Black, 1973
Coptolithus comprises placolith coccoliths with single-tiered distal and proximal shields linked by a narrow double tube cycle. The central area is traversed by radiating bars that converge and fuse at the centre to form a solid central structure.
Under cross-polarised light in plan view, the shields and tube cycles exhibit white interference colours, inclined extinction lines, and length-fast (–) elongation. Extinction angles measured on the distal side are approximately 75° in the shields and 65° in the tube cycles. The locking cycle exhibits interference colours and forms a transitional boundary between the tube cycle and the shield. The central grill displays very weak first-order whitish-grey interference colours.
Bukry, D. 1969. Upper Cretaceous coccoliths from Texas and Europe. University of Kansas Paleontological Contributions, Articles 51 (Protista 2): 1-79.
Black, M. 1973. British Lower Cretaceous Coccoliths. I-Gault Clay (Part 2). Palaeontographical Society Monograph 127: 49-112.
Holotype
Cyclagelosphaera baticlypeata
Bukry, 1969
Early Campanian
Lake Vaxahacie, Ellis County, Texas, USA