Possible evidence of bacterial degradation in Glossopteris flora of India

Abstract

Scanning electron microscopy of cuticles of glossopteris fructification (Sculum type) recovered from the Upper Permian sequence of Jharia coalfield demonstrates damaged cellular tissue and bacteria like structures. Occurrence of bacteria over the marred surface of seed cuticle possessing plaque/pit suggests role of micro-organisms in biodegradation of Glossopteris flora.