Lace Coral / Bryozoan Colony
Bryozoa cf. fenestrate or cheilostome colony • Body fossil, invertebrate colonial marine organism (Bryozoan)
Geological Period
Cenozoic (likely Neogene to Quaternary, or possibly Paleozoic depending on exact geological context)
Estimated Age
Recent to several millions of years old
Preservation Type
Original calcitic/aragonitic skeletal preservation with minimal secondary mineralization.
Condition Assessment
Good condition; exhibits clear surface detail and delicate structure with minor edge wear and missing peripheral fragments.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Bryozoa, Class Stenolaemata, Order Fenestrata or Cheilostomata
Morphological Description
Delicate, lace-like branching colonial structure showing intricate porous apertures (zooecia) arranged in parallel rows and reticulated patterns across a flat, fan-shaped frond.
Rock Matrix
Cleaned specimen with little to no visible surrounding matrix attached.
Formation & Location
Marine sedimentary deposits globally, commonly found in shallow-water limestone and marl formations.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 5 to 8 cm across, consistent with typical frond fragments of colonial bryozoans.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $45
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30
Rarity Assessment
Common
Scientific Significance
Provides insights into ancient shallow-water marine paleoenvironments, reef ecology, and colonial organism evolution.
Preparation Recommendations
Requires gentle dusting with a soft brush; store in a stable, dry environment to prevent degradation of delicate skeletal walls.
Notable Features
Exceptionally clear, intricate branching pattern displaying well-preserved zooecial pores and parallel structural bars.