Zebra Nerite Fossil
Puperita pupa (cf.) • Body fossil (Invertebrate Gastropod shell)
Geological Period
Pleistocene to Holocene
Estimated Age
0.1 - 2.5 million years
Preservation Type
Unaltered shell material with exceptionally preserved original pigmentation
Condition Assessment
Very Good; intact shell structure with visible wear on the apex and slight chipping at the aperture margins
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Cycloneritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Puperita
Morphological Description
Globose, low-spired shell with smooth whorls. Distinctive axial black stripes/zig-zags on a light cream/white background. Semicircular aperture shape.
Rock Matrix
None visible (loose specimen); likely associated with calcarenite or loose coastal shell beds
Formation & Location
Bermuda (Devonshire Formation) or coastal Florida/Caribbean deposits
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 10-15mm in diameter; typical for the species
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$15.00 - $40.00 USD
Rarity Assessment
Uncommon; while the genus is extant, fossil specimens with high-contrast color retention are sought after by specialists
Scientific Significance
Provides data on Quaternary coastal biodiversity and the persistence of pigment patterns in the fossil record
Preparation Recommendations
Keep in a dry, UV-protected environment to prevent further fading of the organic pigments; clean only with soft brushes
Notable Features
Remarkable preservation of the original 'Zebra' melanin-based pattern which typically degrades in older fossilized remains