The genus Glaphyrophlebia, known from the Elmo, Kansas Wellington Formation deposits, had not been reported from the Midco, Oklahoma beds.  We have recently taken specimens of two different species, both from Raasch 5 Locality in Noble County, Oklahoma.  At right is specimen R5-5-27-3-8a, collected by Joseph Hall in May, 2003 and identified by Roy Beckemeyer.  Below is a sketch from Carpenter of Glaphyrophlebia speciosa Sellards, 1909, from Carpenter, 1966 (see Bibliography).  This specimen is likely this species, as it closely resembles the drawing.

At right is specimen R5-4-26-04-001a,b, collected in April, 2004 by Joseph Hall.  It is a spectacular specimen, with articulated wings, portions of the hind, mid and fore legs, head, thorax, and a portion of the abdomen.  This is the only know specimen from the Wellington Formation of a Glaphyrophlebia with body parts, although perfectly preserved complete specimens are known from Russia (See Rasnitsyn & Quicke, History of Insects, p. 108, Figure 110 for an image of Glaphyrophlebia aralensis (Martynov) from the Early Permian of Tshekarda in the Urals.)

This specimen resembles Glaphyrophlebia ovata Sellards, 1909, so I am referring it to Glaphyrophlebia cf. ovata pending comparison with Elmo type specimens.

Additional preparation work is proceeding, and more details may become visible as work continues.  Note that the counterpart (b) is shown as a mirror image to align it to the part (a) for comparison.

Left - drawing of G. ovata forewing from Carpenter, 1966.

Right: Specimen R5-4-26-04-001a shown with a mm scale for reference.

Return to top of page        Return to Midco Page