Phillipsaster selwyni
Phylum Echinodermata, Class Ophiuroidea
Geological Time: Upper Silurian, Late Ludlovian Stage
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): 8 mm and 4 mm diameter on a 65 by 45 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Dargile Formation, Kilmore Sandstone, Kilmore East, Victoria, Australia
Code: AAF42
Price: $95
 Description:
Well-preserved example of a pair of Ophuroids (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. A pair such
as this is a most uncommon occurrence. The second is a tiny one
at about 0ne o’clock relative to the larger. There are a
few pinnules of a crinoid preserved as well. |
