Pecopteris is sometimes confused with other fossil seed ferns, like neuropteris.

An easy way to tell the difference is pecopteris leaflets are straight and are attached by their entire base. Neuropteris leaflets, are usually more heart-shaped at their base, and are attached at a single point.

View a schematic of this comparison.

Rock Type: Gray shale
Formation: Allegheny
Interval: Middle Kittanning seam
Age: Middle Pennsylvanian Period, approx. 301 million years.

Location: Lincoln County, West Virginia; Copley Trace Surface Mine #2, located about 10 miles west of Atenville, West Virginia. Take Route 68 west for 3 miles, turn left on Route 68 / 1 (Francis Creek Road) and drive approximately 6 miles. Veer left up Kiah Creek, continue approx. 1.5 miles to Copley Trace. Take next right, proceed up ridge past Meeks Cemetary. Truck access only.