Cosmochlaina

Cosmochlaina (from Greek: kosmos=ornament; xlaina=wrapper/cloak) is a form genus of nematophyte – an early (Silurian – Devonian) plant known only from fossil cuticles,[1] often found in association with tubular structures.

[2] The form genus was put forwards by Dianne Edwards, and is diagnosed by inwards-pointing flanges and randomly oriented pseudo-cellular units.

[3] Where Nematothallus was sometimes used to relate only to tube-like structures, Cosmochlaina was used in reference to the cuticle fragments.

[4] It has been suggested that the pores of Cosmochlaina represent broken-off rhizoids, on the basis that rotting and acid treatment of extant liverworts produces a similar perforated texture.

[5] However, the status of this form genus in any one kingdom is not secure; members could, for example, represent arthropod cuticle.