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Fossil Holothurian or sea cucumber
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Fossil Holothurian or sea cucumber
Staurocystis quadrifasciata, 6.5 cm long, from the Silurian, Wenlock Limestone of Dudley in Worcestershire, England
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Media ID 14237970
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
Black Background Cucumber Cucumis Cucurbitaceae Cucurbitales Dudley Echinoderm Echinodermata Eudicot Eurosid Fabidae Fossil Fossilised Great Britain Melon Paleozoic Phanerozoic Prehistoric Prehistory Rosid Silurian Specimen Studioshot United Kingdom Wenlock Worcestershire Angiospermae Cucumis Sativus Dicot Dicotyledon Holothurian Holothuroidea Invertebrata Magnoliophyta Sea Cucumber
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "A Glimpse into the Past: Staurocystis quadrifasciata, the Ancient Sea Cucumber from the Silurian Wenlock Limestone of Dudley, Worcestershire, England" 2.. This image showcases a well-preserved fossil of Staurocystis quadrifasciata, an ancient Holothurian or sea cucumber, discovered in the Silurian Wenlock Limestone of Dudley, Worcestershire, England. Dating back to the Upper Silurian period, around 423 million years ago, this prehistoric marine invertebrate is a testament to the rich biodiversity that existed during the Paleozoic and Phanerozoic eras. Measuring approximately 6.5 cm in length, Staurocystis quadrifasciata is a member of the Echinodermata class, characterized by its five-fold radial symmetry and unique body structure. This particular species is recognized by its distinct quadrifasciate (four-banded) appearance, making it easily identifiable among other Holothurians. The discovery of this fossilized sea cucumber in Britain offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse marine life that inhabited European waters during the Silurian period. As a dicotyledon, Staurocystis quadrifasciata is not related to the Cucumis sativus, or the common cucumber, which is a flowering plant from the Cucurbitaceae family. However, the name "sea cucumber" is shared between the ancient Holothurian and the modern edible cucumber, highlighting the intriguing connections between past and present. This studio shot of the Staurocystis quadrifasciata fossil, set against a black background, emphasizes its intricate details and allows viewers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of this ancient marine creature. The fossil's preservation is a reminder of the rich history and prehistory that lies beneath our feet, waiting to be discovered and cherished.
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