Fossilized Bryozoan or Rugose Coral Fragment
Unidentified colonial marine invertebrate cf. Fenestrata or Tabulata • Body fossil, marine invertebrate skeletal fragment
Geological Period
Devonian to Carboniferous (Paleozoic Era)
Estimated Age
350 to 400 million years
Preservation Type
Silicification and calcification with exceptionally well-preserved micro-structures
Condition Assessment
Very Good condition, high surface detail retention with minor edge wear and breakage
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Bryozoa or Cnidaria, Class: Stenolaemata or Anthozoa
Morphological Description
Exhibits intricate, delicate radial branching structures, parallel aligned pore canals, and porous reticulated surface textures displaying growth laminae.
Rock Matrix
Cleaned specimen with minimal residual calcareous limestone matrix
Formation & Location
Midwest United States (such as the Silica Formation of Ohio or Jeffersonville Limestone)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 8 cm by 6 cm, consistent with fragments of larger colonial marine organisms
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$25 - $50 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common
Scientific Significance
Provides insights into ancient shallow-water Paleozoic marine reef ecosystems and colonial invertebrate growth habits
Preparation Recommendations
Gentle ultrasonic cleaning or soft-bristle brushing; store in a stable, dry environment away from high humidity
Notable Features
Exceedingly clear internal stereom and structural porosity visible on the fracture surface, displaying distinct parallel micro-channels