A unique new genus of acritarcha (organic‐walled microphytoplankton) from the Tanezzuft formation (Silurian) of Libya

Abstract

Tyrannus gen. nov. is here proposed for an exceptionally large acritarch species originally named Estiastra gigantea Jardiné et al. 1974, from the Algerian subsurface. Well preserved specimens from the subsurface of Libya indicate the original generic assignment is inappropriate. Accordingly, this unique form is redescribed, and specimens are illustrated, to support the erection of a new monotypic acritarch genus. The Algerian and Libyan palynomorph assemblages, in which Tryannus giganteus (Jardiné et al.) gen. et comb. nov. occurs, suggest a Late Silurian (Ludlow) age.