Coptolithus rawsonii

(Crux, 1987) Varol, n. comb. May 17, 2026

Set number: 3241

  • Watznaueria rawsonii 2793 1
  • Watznaueria rawsonii 2792 2
  • Watznaueria rawsonii 2790 3
  • Watznaueria rawsonii 2791 4
    10µm
Coptolithus rawsonii, Late Aptian, Gargas, SE France
Final Epithet
Coptolithus rawsonii (Crux, 1987) Varol, n. comb.
Basionym

Watznaueria rawsonii Crux, 1987

Description

Coptolithus comprises placolith coccoliths with single-tiered distal and proximal shields linked by a narrow double tube cycle. The central area is occupied by a grill-like structure.

Optical Properties

Under cross-polarised light in plan view, the shields and tube cycles are characterised by white interference colours, inclined extinction lines, and length-fast (–) elongation. Extinction angles of approximately 71° are observed in both structures on the distal side. 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.

References

Crux, J. A. 1987c. Six new species of calcareous nannofossils from the Lower Cretaceous strata of England and Germany. INA Newsletter. 9(1): 30-35.

Taxonomy
Coptolithus
Biostratigraphy
  • Phanerozoic
    • Mesozoic
      • Cretaceous
        • Early Cretaceous
          • Neocomian
            • Valanginian
              • Early Valanginian
          • Gallic
            • Aptian
              • Late Aptian
Stratigraphic Range
Early Valanginian - Late Aptian
Age (Ma)
137.70? - 113.20?
Holotype
Watznaueria rawsonii 2793

Watznaueria rawsonii Crux, 1987c

Late Hauterivian

Otto Gott, Sarstedt, Germany.