Fossilized Stromatoporoid Sponge
Stromatopora cf. concentrica • Body fossil, invertebrate marine sponge
Geological Period
Devonian (or Silurian/Ordovician)
Estimated Age
359 to 419 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralization and heavy calcitic/silicified replacement
Condition Assessment
Good, showing clear surface structures and moderate weathering along the edges without complete structural degradation
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Porifera, Class Demospongiae, Order Stromatoporida
Morphological Description
Exhibits a prominent coenosteum with a finely reticulate skeletal network, clearly displaying latilaminae and characteristic pillar and laminae structures, along with rounded astrorhizae canals.
Rock Matrix
Argillaceous limestone with micro-crystalline quartz replacement
Formation & Location
Onondaga Formation, New York, USA or equivalent Devonian carbonate shelf deposits globally
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 8 cm x 6 cm x 3 cm, consistent with a fragmented section of a larger colonial marine organism
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
30 to 75 USD
Auction Estimate
25 to 50 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common
Scientific Significance
Important indicator of ancient shallow marine reef ecosystems, paleo-water depth, and tropical to subtropical marine conditions during the Paleozoic era
Preparation Recommendations
Light brushing with water to remove dust; store in a dry, stable environment; can be displayed on a clear acrylic stand as currently configured
Notable Features
Exceptionally clear honeycomb-like internal canal system and well-defined growth laminae visible across the upper surface plane