cf. Stereocidaris, with possible affinities to S. sceptrifera

cf. Stereocidaris, with possible affinities to S. sceptrifera

Lowermost Campanian

TX

This Cidarid seems to have affinities with Stereocidaris sceptrifera from the late Cretaceous of Europe, but the geographic separation and lack of literature on this new world form suggest a potential undescribed species of Stereocidarid. This is the same taxon as the other Cidarid in this album - both were found the same day, at the same locality  

Notice the partial aristotle's lantern (mouth), as well as a few of the short, flattened scrobicular spines (which protect the muscles of each primary spine) attached near the bottom. Though crushed, this specimen is excellent. 

Huge thanks to @JohnJ for the excellent photos, and both John and @Ptychodus04 for the prep

Discovered April 1, 2022