Brain Coral
cf. Diploria labyrinthiformis or Platygyra sp. • Body fossil; Invertebrate (Scleractinian Coral)
Geological Period
Neogene to Quaternary (likely Holocene or Pleistocene)
Estimated Age
0.01 - 2.5 million years
Preservation Type
Original aragonite or calcite skeletal preservation; sub-fossil to fossilized state
Condition Assessment
Good; shows natural weathering and some erosion of the fine septal detail, but the diagnostic 'brain' structure is well-preserved.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Cnidaria, Class: Anthozoa, Order: Scleractinia, Family: Mussidae (or Merulinidae), Genus: Diploria (or Platygyra)
Morphological Description
Massive, hemispherical growth form characterized by meandering ridges (collines) and valleys (valleculae) containing corallite centers. The surface shows a complex, labyrinthine pattern with visible septa radiating toward the center of the valleys.
Rock Matrix
None attached; specimen appears to be a weathered colony or 'beach cobble' likely originating from a limestone or reef terrace context.
Formation & Location
Common in the Caribbean (Key Largo Limestone) or Indo-Pacific reef systems.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 12-15 cm in diameter; a mid-sized colony specimen compared to large reef-building masses.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $60.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$40.00 - $80.00 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common; corals of this type are widely distributed and frequently found in coastal fossil deposits.
Scientific Significance
Provides data on paleo-sea levels, ancient reef health, and paleoclimatic conditions through isotopic analysis of the calcium carbonate skeleton.
Preparation Recommendations
Requires gentle cleaning with soft brushes and distilled water; avoid acids which dissolve the calcium carbonate. Display in a dry, stable environment.
Notable Features
Distinctive labyrinthine septal ridges; the rounded shape suggests it may have been tumbled in surf prior to final burial or discovery.