This fossil slab contains two beautifully detailed brittle stars (Ophiuroidea) from the Jurassic limestone beds of Morocco, preserved in their natural resting positions. The largest brittle star measures 4.50" across and displays excellent arm articulation and central disc structure. Set in a compact 5.25" x 5.50" limestone matrix, this piece features rich coloration and strong contrast.
These marine invertebrates are ancient relatives of modern brittle stars and offer a captivating glimpse into life in the shallow Jurassic seas over 150 million years ago. This piece is perfect for fossil collectors, educators, or anyone seeking a display-sized specimen with outstanding preservation.
Key Features:
- Two fossil brittle stars (Ophiuroidea)
- Largest specimen measures 4.50"
- Rock matrix: 5.25" x 5.50"
- Jurassic Period (~150 million years old)
- Origin: Morocco
- Natural preservation with clear detail
🌊 About These Fossils: Ancient Echinoderms from Jurassic Morocco
These fossil specimens come from the Jurassic-age marine limestone beds near El Kaid Errami, Morocco, a region world-famous for its abundance of exceptionally preserved marine fossils. Dating back approximately 150 million years, these fossils capture the remains of ancient echinoderms—including brittle stars (Ophiuroidea) and true starfish (Asteroidea)—that once thrived in warm, shallow seas.
Brittle stars, while closely related to modern starfish, are easily distinguished by their long, flexible arms and small, disc-like bodies. Unlike starfish, brittle stars use their whip-like limbs to crawl and feed along the seafloor. Their delicate structures rarely fossilize intact, making well-preserved specimens like these especially rare and sought after by collectors.
Fossil starfish are also relatively uncommon due to their soft-bodied nature and tendency to decay quickly after death. When conditions were just right—fine sediment, low oxygen, and rapid burial—these sea stars were preserved in remarkable detail, as seen in these Moroccan finds.
Each piece in this collection is:
- Over 150 million years old
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Ethically sourced from trusted Moroccan fossil dig sites
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Professionally prepared to highlight fine anatomical detail
- A one-of-a-kind window into ancient ocean life
These fossils are ideal for:
- Paleontology enthusiasts and fossil collectors
- Home or office fossil displays
- Educational tools for classrooms and museums
- Unique, science-inspired gifts
