Section I-Introduction

Abstract

Revising the work of any scientific pioneers is an unenviable task but one which becomes a necessity when erroneous identifications outweigh the constructive value of the older work, often leading inevitably to wrong conclusions about age and relationships. The necessity for a complete revision of the fossil plants occurring in the predominantly Devonian formation known as the Cape System has long been apparent. The more important reasons for undertaking this task at this time are summarised below.