On the fructification of Tricoccites trigonum Rode from the Deccan Intertrappean Series of India

Abstract

This paper deals with the investigation of the petrified fructification of Tricoccites trigonum Rode, and redescribes the fruit in as much detail as possible. The present material comes from the village Mohgaon Kalan, Chhindwara district of the Madhya Pradesh, India, where the Deccan Intertrappeans are exposed. The previous diagnosis of the genus and the species is emended. The presence of several ensheathing leaves probably enclosing the fructification is of great interest since their structure resembles most that of Cyclanthodendron Sahnii (Rode) Sahni & Surange. The affinities of fruit are discussed but left open. Points of resemblances are noted to Pandanaceae and certain Palmae, e.g. Attalea, a 3-locular, 3-seeded drupe, However, it agrees with no existing genus and its classification must remain open until more is learnt.