Name: Phylum: Annelida; Class Polychaeta; Didontogaster cordylina
Geological Time: Pennsylvanian (~300 m.y.a.)
Size (25.4mm=1 inch): 35 mm long on a 40 mm by 30 mm and 23 mm by 35 mm nodule pair
Fossil Site: Pit 11, Francis Creek shale, Morris, Illinois (Mazon Creek)
Code: CB08
Price: $35.00 - sold
 Description:
The Mazon Creek deposits of the region near Braidwood, Illinois rival
the other famous Lagerstatten of the Burgess Shale, Solnhofen, and
Liaoning for the variety of detailed life preserved. Many exquisitely
preserved specimens are found in the ironstone nodules that make up
the deposits. The majority of collecting areas are the spoil heaps
of abandoned coal mines, the most famous of which is Peabody Coal
Pit 11. Pit 11 now serves as a cooling pond for the Braidwood nuclear
power plant, but with over 100 other localities, specimens still come
to light. The Polychaeta (Bristleworms) have a diverse representation
among Mazon Creek specimens. The segmented bodies of the Polychaeta
have paired lobes called parapodia which have a function in locomotion
or respiration. The parapodia bear numerous bristles that are the
source of the name of the class (Polychaeta means many bristles).
This one is thought to have been a predatory species, as are many
modern-day bristleworms. Its generic name means “two tooth stomach”,
and refers to the pair of jaws that this worm possessed. |
