Sagenodus (Ctenodus) sp
Class Sarcopterygii, Subclass Dipnoi
Geological Time: Pennsylvanian (~300 million years ago)
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Fossil is 35 mm long by 9 mm wide on a 53 mm by 34 mm nodule half
Fossil Site: Mazon Creek, Francis Creek Shale, Pit 11, Braidwood, Illinois
Code: AW68
Price: 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. This is a lungfish scale known as Sagenodus. It most
likely comes from a Ctenodus sp. lungfish, despite being given
its distinctive name. Ctenodus is thought to be adult form of Esconichtys,
known to collectors as “blades” (see my other listings). . |
