Home > Europe > Germany > Related Images
Thecosmilia trichotoma, a fossil coral
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Thecosmilia trichotoma, a fossil coral
Thecosmilia trichotoma (Goldfuss). Scleractinian coral. Jurassic (Bathonian); Nattheim, Germany; BMNH 55859
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 8603999
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10710116
Anthozoa Anthozoan Cnidaria Cnidarian Coelenterata Coelenterate Coral Fossil Fossilised Hard Coral Jurassic Mesozoic Phanerozoic Prehistoric Scleractinia Scleractinian Stony Coral Bathonian Invertebrata
EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning fossilized coral, Thecosmilia trichotoma, is a testament to the vibrant marine life that once thrived in the Jurassic seas of Europe during the Bathonian age, around 165 million years ago. Discovered in Nattheim, Germany, this exquisite specimen is now housed in the Natural History Museum in London, under the catalog number BMNH 55859. Thecosmilia trichotoma, a scleractinian coral, is a member of the Anthozoa class within the Phylum Cnidaria, which also includes modern-day jellyfish, anemones, and sea fans. This hard, stony coral, characterized by its branching structure and intricate skeletal patterns, is a representative of the family Stylophyllidae. The fossil's preservation reveals the intricate details of its complex branching structure, which is typical of Thecosmilia corals. The fossil's surface is covered in tiny, hexagonal calcium carbonate structures, which provided a foundation for the growth of living polyps. The polyp's tentacles, which were soft and not preserved, would have extended from these structures, capturing planktonic organisms for food. Thecosmilia trichotoma's fossilization is a remarkable example of the preservation of ancient marine ecosystems. Its discovery offers valuable insights into the biosphere of the Mesozoic Era, a time when the Earth's climate and geography were vastly different from today. This fossilized coral serves as a reminder of the intricate and diverse marine life that once inhabited our planet and continues to inspire scientific curiosity and exploration.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
