Its usage, at least in paleontology, is cf. xyz which should be read as
compares favorably to xyz. This usually means that sp. cf. xyz is closest to
xyz but for some reason (usually poor preservation) an exact species
assignment
cannot be supported.
 
A related terms is sp. aff. xyz which means the specimen is closest to xyz but
appears to be distinct from xyz.
 
I hope this clarifies the issue.
 
Terry
 
At 08:27 PM 9/10/1998 , Scott E Jordan wrote in flowing prose:
>
> Hello Gang,
>
> Can someone explain the meaning of "sp. cf." used in the context of
> explaining an unidentified species or form?
>
> Regards,
>
> Scott Jordan
 
 
 
Terry S. Arnold 2975 B Street San Diego, CA 92102 USA
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