Phylum Cnidaria, Class Anthozoa
Modern day cnidaria include coral, sea anemones and jellyfish.
Cnidaria include Class Anthozoa (corals) which can be subdivided into tubulate and rugose corals. Tabulate corals have well defined horizontal plates (tabula) while rugose corals have well defined vertical plates (septae).
Cnidaria include Class Anthozoa (corals) which can be subdivided into tubulate and rugose corals. Tabulate corals have well defined horizontal plates (tabula) while rugose corals have well defined vertical plates (septae).
Tabulate coral is colonial. Notice a base of attachment on the fossil and rays radiating from the circular center of the specimen.
|
Rugose coral can be colonial or solitary. Notice the geometric septae network that surrounds the openings or depressions on the surface. The solitary horn coral will have horizontal and vertical striations.
|
Marine benthic sessile organism.