Uperocrinus Iongirostris-Missouri

Taxa: Uperocrinus Iongirostris

Geology: Lower Burlingtonformation

Age: Mississippian-Carboniferous

Locality: Ralls County, Missouri

This specimen consists of one crinoid calyx in matrix. No repairs or restorations.

Crinoids

Crinoids are marine animals belonging to the class Crinoidea within the phylum Echinodermata. Often referred to as "sea lilies" or "feather stars," they have a cup-shaped body (calyx) with feathery arms extending outward, used for filter-feeding.

Key Features:

Body Structure: Consists of a central calyx, flexible arms, and a stalk (in sessile forms) or cirri for attachment or mobility.

Symmetry: Pentaradial, like other echinoderms.

Feeding: Suspension feeders, capturing plankton and organic particles with their arms.

Habitat:

Found in marine environments, from shallow waters to deep oceans.

Modern crinoids are less abundant but can still be seen in coral reefs or on the seafloor.

Crinoid fossils are common in Paleozoic and Mesozoic rocks, as they were much more diverse and abundant in ancient seas.