Pouzaster pocknotata sp. nov.

(Figs 13I–O, Q–S, 22F, I)

Types. The holotype (Fig. 13Q) is a primary radial ossicle (NHMUK EE 17688) from the lower Bathonian, Zigzagiceras zigzag ammonite Zone of La Pouza, near La Voulte-sur-Rhone (Ard̀eche, France). A total of nine similar ossicles from the same locality are paratypes (NHMUK EE 17689–17695) .

Diagnosis. As for the genus.

Additional material. Two ossicles from the serpentinus ammonite Zone (Toarcian) of Fougerolles, near Caen, France (MHNLM 20201.2 and 20201.3).

Derivation of name. Latin for pockmarked (pock = scar, notata = marked), in reference to the surface sculpture.

Description. The abactinal plates are variable in shape, and hexagonal to oval in outline. All possess a distinctive sculpture of irregular pitting, which has a weak radial alignment in some specimens (e.g. Fig. 13I, N, Q, R). The position of possible pr can be identified from comparison with that in other Sphaerasteridae (Fig. 13O, R). They are hexagonal and symmetical about the vertical axis, and the articular facet contacting the successive radial is broad. The external face is gently convex, and appears to be smooth in one specimen (Fig. 13O); however, under low-oblique lighting it displays radiating ridges around the margin of the plate. The ossicles are half as thick as broad, and each side has a well-defined rounded rectangular articular surface which bears a scatter of fine pits. A single poorly defined papular notch is present on each corner (Fig. 19D). Other abactinals with a similar sculpture include rather tall, narrow, hexagonal to lozenge-shaped plates (e.g. Figs 13J–N, 22F, I) which were probably unpaired and occupied an interradial position, and broad hexagonal plates (Fig. 13M) which might be distal radials .

Remarks. The distinctive sculpture of the plates, irregular pitting with a weak radial element towards the margins, distinguish this species from all others. Reconstruction is not possible without further material.