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4.1" Ordovician Brittle Star (Ophiura) Fossil - Morocco
This is a 4.1" wide fossil brittle star (Ophiura sp.) from the Ordovician Kataoua Formation of Morocco. The specimen displays a well-defined central disc and five long, articulated arms preserved on a natural piece of limestone.
The fossil's distinctive rusty-orange coloration results from the oxidation of pyrite (iron sulfide) associated with its preservation. The matrix has been carefully etched along the edges of the fossil using an air scribe so that it contrasts better with the surrounding rock.
Includes an acrylic display stand.
The fossil's distinctive rusty-orange coloration results from the oxidation of pyrite (iron sulfide) associated with its preservation. The matrix has been carefully etched along the edges of the fossil using an air scribe so that it contrasts better with the surrounding rock.
Includes an acrylic display stand.
About Brittle Stars
Brittle stars are echinoderms, making them relatives of starfish, sea urchins, and crinoids. Unlike true starfish, brittle stars typically have long, flexible arms that are sharply distinct from the central body disc. They use these arms to move across the seafloor, capture food particles, and interact with their environment. Fossil brittle stars are much less commonly encountered than many other marine fossils because their delicate skeletons are prone to disarticulation after death, making well-preserved examples especially desirable.
The Kataoua Formation of Morocco is known for producing exceptional Ordovician marine fossils, including echinoderms, trilobites, and other seafloor-dwelling organisms. This specimen offers a striking look at an ancient brittle star from a marine ecosystem that existed roughly 450 million years ago.
Brittle stars are echinoderms, making them relatives of starfish, sea urchins, and crinoids. Unlike true starfish, brittle stars typically have long, flexible arms that are sharply distinct from the central body disc. They use these arms to move across the seafloor, capture food particles, and interact with their environment. Fossil brittle stars are much less commonly encountered than many other marine fossils because their delicate skeletons are prone to disarticulation after death, making well-preserved examples especially desirable.
The Kataoua Formation of Morocco is known for producing exceptional Ordovician marine fossils, including echinoderms, trilobites, and other seafloor-dwelling organisms. This specimen offers a striking look at an ancient brittle star from a marine ecosystem that existed roughly 450 million years ago.
SPECIES
Ophiura sp.
AGE
LOCATION
Kaid rami, Morocco
FORMATION
Kataoua Formation
SIZE
Brittle Star: 4.1" wide, Rock: 6 x 4.8"
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#385606
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