Fossil Hedgehog - Fossil plate matrix - Pseudocidaris Mammosa - 19.5 cm - 35 cm

In this lot a fossil sea urchin in a large matrix (19.5 x 35 cm, plaque) of the species Pseudocidaris Mammosa is auctioned.
Perfect preservation with all the spines (radioles), highly contrasted with the matrix, the diameter of the animal is about 9.5 cm.
A piece of great value both scientifically and for collectors due to its aesthetic appeal.
It is a type of material exclusive, museum-quality.
A very elegant and decorative fossil that will undoubtedly be a standout piece in its display case or on a shelf.
Very interesting are the complete specimens that occur naturally in the sediment, a slice of the Jurassic seabed, a moment frozen in time within reach of anyone interested in paleontology and the history of life on our planet, from the time when “our world was another world.”
It corresponds to the Jurassic Period, Middle Epoch (Dogger), Bajocian age.
It comes from near the locality of Boulemane (Morocco).
Like most sea urchins, Pseudocidaris mammosa was primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and other organic matter found on the seafloor. The function of the spines was to protect against potential predators, as well as for locomotion and attachment in the marine habitat.
Radioles with fairly pronounced granular texture that is accentuated at the distal end, where it is more evident, is a distinctive detail of the species; not infrequently the anatomical differences between species can be subtle.
"The specimen is accompanied by two L-shaped acrylic display supports as a gift"