Statistical analysis of the phragmodiform element of the Conodont species Phragmodus undatus

Abstract

Phragmodiform elements of the Middle and Upper Ordovician conodont species Phragmodiform undatus can be divided into three morphologically distinct groups on the basis of cusp ornamentation as outlined by Sweet, et al. (1959). The purpose of this paper is to establish that a simple linear relationship, expressive of a simple ratio, exists between these three groups, to show what this relationship is, and to evaluate the results statistically. It is concluded the the probable minimum number of discrete Phragmodiform elements present in an individual of P. undatus was 24.