I.D. Brachiopod L. Devonian

[GordonC]

This from the Becraft Formation Becraft Mt. NY. Looks like Strophonella punctulifera Conrad 1859.

Largest specimen about 2 1/2 " across. Detail and entire plate.

Edited January 5, 2016 by GordonC

[Ridgehiker]

Nice to see specimens in Matrix. These are always an interesting genus because larger than most brachiopods and the shell detail of striations quite distinct

Yes, looks like Strophenella. However, brachiopods are identified by examining the internal structure. Otherwise it is going by the published papers as to what species of q genus are found in a particular formation.

Another interesting thing about Strophenella is that they often have some type of epifauna on the shells like little circular worms or Bryozoa.

Just a note. The spellings is 'Becraft Formation'. Similar species brachs are found in same age deposits to the north in New Brunswick.

Edited January 5, 2016 by Ridgehiker

[GordonC]

Thank you for the information. S. Weller, Paleontology of NJ Vol III 1903 has found S. Punctulifera in the Coeymans and Becraft at Montague NJ.

(Spent the better part of two years on a project near Canmore. Only fossil found was some coral at Spray Lake.) Gordon