264 t'ALjEONTOLOGY OF NEW-YORK. 



319. 6. PALiEOPHYCUS {Species undetermined ). 



Pl. LXX. Fig. 2. 



This species occurs in short, small fragments, often quite covering the shaly laminae 

 in some parts of this group. It appears to have been a succulent plant ; but no definite 

 character can be assigned to it in the present state of our knowledge. The specimens figured 

 are in a fragment of slate, presenting the usual aspect of the species. It is often found in 

 smaller and in larger fragments^ both (Covering the surfaces and penetrating the thin 

 arenaceous layers. 



Position and locality. In the central portions 01" the group, near Rome, Oneida county ; 

 and in Lewis and Oswego counties. {State Collection.) 



320. 1. GORDIA MARINA.* 



PjuLXXI. Figs. 1,2. 



Gordia marina. Emuons, Tac. System, pag. 67, pl. 1, fig. 2. 

 , — — Id. Agr. Report, pag. 68, pl. 14. 



I have given this peculiar form, though doubting whether it be organic. An examination 

 of two specimens shows the slightly elevated ridge to be thoroughly incorporated with 

 the stone on one side, and appear as if they had filled slight depressions in the soft shales 

 beneath. The form and meanderings of this body are not unlike the tracks made by 

 Melania and other aquatic and marine shells of the present day ; and I am, therefore, 

 inclined to refer it to such a cause. Examined with this, or the other view, it does not 

 detract from the interest attached to this singular marking upon the surface of these ancient 

 strata. I have given figures of two specimens, in which the exact course of the elevated 

 ridge is preserved. 



Position and locality. These specimens occur in the same position, and at the same 

 locality, with those forms described on Plate LXIX, from M'Arthur's quarry, Jackson, 

 Wfishington county. 



In addition to the forms here given, and those which are unequivocally of vegetable 

 origin, there are others in which it is impossible to determine their true character. After 

 examining a considerable number of specimens of tliis kind, I have decided to omit them 

 all, believing that an attempt to indicate species and genera where constant characters are 

 wanting, will be followed by a multiplication of species of which the individuals described 

 would be the only representatives; an occurrence that can be attended with no good 

 results to the science. 



* I have used the generic term Gordia in this inaiance, though aware that the similar name of Gerditu will 

 preclude its final adoption among naturalists. 



