Sinosura kelheimense
Phylum Echinodermata; Class Ophiuroidea
Geological Time: Late Jurassic, Tithonian Stage
Size: Fossils are 17-41 mm across on a 240 mm by 145 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Solnhofen Limestone, Hienheim, Germany
 Description:
A rarely seen member of the Ophiuroidea, or Brittlestars, this is
a fine example of a death assemblage of NINETEEN specimens of the
genus Sinosura (17 positive and 2 negative). While starfish are more
sturdily-built, the Briitlestars are more delicate, with the arms
branching off from the central disc in such a way as to make the arms
quite mobile (some are also termed “Serpent Stars” due
to their sinuous movements). These 150 million year old deposits are
famous for their exceptionally well-preserved organisms, the most
famous of which are the handful of specimens of the ancient bird Archaeopteryx.
They are well-positioned on this large lithographic limestone matrix,
suitable representatives of this remarkable largerstatt that is sure
to be a welcome addition to any collection of specimens from the region.
See my other offerings for both a single specimen and another more
affordable multiple assemblage. |
