Abstract
The proto-ovule Runcaria heinzelinii Stockmans 1968 has been re-described and interpreted as a precursor of seed plants; its generico–specifica diagnosis has been emended [Gerrienne, P., Meyer-Berthaud, B., Fairon-Demaret, M., Streel, M., Steemans, P. 2004. Runcaria, a Middle Devonian seed plant precursor. Science 306, 856–858.]. Here we define the concept of “proto-ovule” and designate an epitype to support the uninformative and poorly preserved holotype [Stockmans, F., 1968. Végétaux mésodévoniens récoltés aux confins du Massif du Brabant (Belgique).