Today I Learned about Bryozoan Encrustation

[DanPratt]

Two factors were at work here.

 

1) This is just about the most complete specimen of Isorthoceras sociale that I've ever found.

 

2) I've been doing some research on contemporary squid chromatophores and photophores.

 

So, I was pre-disposed to think I'd discovered some remarkable soft tissue preservation and was all set to announce the evidence of chromatophores in the Ordovician.

 

And then I learned about bryozoan encrustation.

 

Still pretty cool, though.

[Tidgy's Dad]

Very nice. 

[Rockwood]

The little guys were ahead of their time at city planning weren't they. 

[Fossildude19]

Nice fossil, and association.   

[FossilNerd]

Nice example of an encrusting bryozoan. I also like the orthocone.