Basal Branch of Neuropteris

This specimen shows the characteristic basal branching of a Neuropteris leaf frond. Individual leaflets (detached) are seen at top. A close-up view of the leaf fork is available.

 

Rock Type: Gray shale
Formation: Allegheny
Interval: 5-Block seam
Age: Middle Pennsylvanian Period, approx. 303 million years.


Location: Wayne County, West Virginia; Rollem Fork Surface Mine #2, located about 8.5 miles west of Atenville, West Virginia. Take Route 68 west for 3 miles, turn left on Route 68 / 1 (Francis Creek Road) and drive approximately 6 miles. Just before Frances Creek empties into Kiah Creek a dirt road branches off to the right up a small hill. Site is 1 mile up this dirt road on the right.