This beautifully preserved fossil slab features two fossil brittle stars (Ophiuroidea) from the Jurassic limestone beds of Morocco. The longest specimen measures 6.25" across, with both showing excellent detail in the long, slender arms and central discs. The natural stone matrix measures approximately 8.25" x 6.25".
This piece was found in two sections and has been professionally rejoined, a common and stable practice for larger Moroccan fossil plates. Despite the repair, the definition of the fossils remains sharp and clear, making it a valuable and display-worthy addition to any collection.
These brittle stars lived over 150 million years ago, scuttling across the sea floor in what is now North Africa. Their fossilized remains offer an amazing glimpse into ancient marine life and are prized by collectors, educators, and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features:
- Two fossil brittle stars (Ophiuroidea)
- Largest measures 6.25" across
- Matrix dimensions: 8.25" x 6.25"
- Jurassic Period (~150 million years old)
- Origin: Morocco
- Professionally repaired where found in two pieces
🌊 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
