Palaeobiology and taphonomy of the rangeomorph <i>Culmofrons plumosa</i>

The deep marine Ediacaran fossil record of Avalonia is dominated by the Rangeomorpha, a clade characterized up to four orders fractal-like branching. Despite their abundance, morphological diversity and recent increase in studies, aspects palaeobiology, palaeoecology phylogenetic position tree life are still hotly debated. has traditionally been interpreted as consisting organisms that lived erect water column tethered seafloor, based on intuitive interpretation frondose body plan. However, work challenged this view instead proposes reclining mode for several rangeomorphs, possibly symbiosis with chemoautotrophic bacteria. Here, we offer detailed description exceptionally preserved specimens Culmofrons plumosa from Discovery UNESCO Global Geopark Newfoundland, Canada. We suggest should be reinterpreted organism taphonomic evidence. Additionally, reproductive modes growth model species here inferred, they appear most consistent life, offering novel palaeobiological reconstruction species.