The first compression Pteroretis-producing sphenophyllalean cones, Pennsylvanian of the Czech Republic

Two new sphenophyllalean species, Bowmanites weissii sp. nov. and Bowmanites taylorii sp. nov., are described from the Kladno–Rakovník and Intra-Sudetic basins of the Czech Republic. The macromorphology of the plants and in situ spores of the cones were studied. The stratigraphical range of the specimens is from the Duckmantian to the Early Bolsovian. Specimens are the first compression specimens of strobili to yield peculiar operculate spores of the Pteroretis-type. All previously reported Pteroretis-producing cones are petrifactions from coal-balls. Sterile stems associated with the cones usually have nine lanceolate leaves, each with a single vein, arranged into whorls. Older stems possess leaves divided into narrow lanceolate lobes. The peculiar morphology of Pteroretis spores is described in detail, including the proximal operculum, primary and secondary ridges, and wing-like extensions. In situ and dispersed spores of the Pteroretis-type and their parent plants are discussed and reviewed.