Ediacaran Cloudina Fossil

Description: The Cloudinids lived during the late Ediacaran, and became extinct at the base of the Cambrian. They are one of the earliest of what is termed the Small Shelly Fauna (SSF) to emerge in the geological record. They consisted of nested calcareous cones that were thought to have been a defense measure against predation. Indeed some have been found with holes drilled in the shells, the result of some unknown predator. The classification of these enigmatic animals is uncertain; they have been variously looked upon as polychaete worms and as cnidarians. Their lifestyle is equally mysterious. They have been thought to have shared a home with the stromatolites, adding additional shells as the microbial mat grew. Since none have been found embedded in a mat, this interpretation is open to question. One side of this large example has been polished while the other has been left in a natural state. To my knowledge, this is the first time any specimens have been offered to private collectors. I was able to secure a few specimens, which have all been gone. This one I was holding for my private collection, but I decided to offer it instead. This is the LAST example I have to offer.

* Hahn, G., and H. D. Pflug (1985). "Die Cloudinidae n. fam., Kalk-Röhren aus dem Vendium und Unter-Kambrium". Senckenbergiana lethaea 65: 413–431.