3D-Analysis of a non-planispiral ammonoid from the Hunsruck Slate: natural or pathological variation?

ABSTRACT: We herein examine the only known non-planispirally coiled early Devonian ammonoid, the holotype specimen of Ivoites opitzi, to investigate if the host was encrusted in vivo and if these sclerobionts were responsible for the trochospiral coiling observed in this unique specimen. To test if the presence of runner-like sclerobionts infested the historically collected specimen of Ivoites opitzi during its life, we used microCT to produce a three-dimensional model of the surface of the specimen. Our results indicate that sclerobionts grew across the outer rim (venter) on both sides of the ammonoid conch at exactly the location where the deviation from the planispiral was recognized, and where subsequent ammonoid growth would likely preclude encrustation. This indicates i

SUBMITTER: Stilkerich J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5494166 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature