LANCE FLORA OF EASTERN WYOMING 159 



This clearly defined species is represented in the collection by the figured specimen and several 

 fragments from Locality P3854. The figured specimen has all the essential characteristics of the 

 type and figured specimens of Palxoaster inquirenda from the Vermejo and Raton formations. 

 The number of segments is apparently somewhat more variable than is implied in the original 

 description. The Lance Creek specimen has 14 segments, a feature which I do not consider 

 sufEciently important to maintain the specimen as a distinct species. 



The botanical status of this species is still doubtful. Knowlton has mentioned its general 

 resemblance to the flowers of Calycanthus, Magnolia, and Williamsonia, and to the fruits of 

 Liriodendron. The Dawson (?) specimen referred to Sterculiocarpus coloradensis Berry, which is 

 probably conspecific with Palxoaster inquirenda, is regarded as stercuHaceous.' 



Remains of this species are now known in the Vermejo, lower Medicine Bow, Laramie, and 

 lowermost Raton floras, besides being present in the true Lance of both Wyoming and Montana. 



Occurrence — LocaHty P3854. 



Collection-—V. C. Mus. Pal., Plesiotype No. 2582. 



' Berry, E. \V., Jour. Washington Acad. Sei., vol. 22, 119, figs. 1, 2, 1932. 



