Ophiura indet
Phylum Echinodermata, Subphylum Asterozoa, Class Ophiuroidea
Geological Time: Upper Silurian, Middle Ludlovian Stage (~430 million years ago)
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Fossil is 14 mm across on a 40 by 45 mm and 35 mm by45 mm matrix pair
Fossil Site: Dargile Formation, Kilmore Sandstone, Clonbinane, Victoria, Australia
Code: AAF243
Price: Sold
 Description:
Well-preserved example of a part and counterpart specimen of an
Ophuroid (Brittlestars). The Silurian deposits of the region are
well-known for the quality of preservation of invertebrate life,
with this fine Echinoderm testimony to the degree of preservation
attained. Notice that even the pitting for the “hydraulic
system” by which the brittlestars moved is in evidence. The
Brittlestars and True Sea Stars shared a common ancestor in the
Ordovician. Intact starfish specimens are quite uncommon in the
fossil record. |
