Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
Cardium nuttalli, Cockle Fossil, 1.5 - .75 Ma |
Object Name |
Shell, Animal |
Description |
Lyropecten? Dosinia? Other? fossil, probably from the Miocone dating from between 23.03 to 5.333 million years ago commonly found at low tide in littoral (sandy and muddy bottom) or sub-littoral (open bay, muddy marine) zones. This Cardium specimen is attached to two other smaller specimens. The Cardium (a large, scalloped-shaped shell) sits at the bottom. Ribs on shell appear to extend the entire length of shell. Attached at the top are two smaller shells, flat and oval in shape. These smaller shells are likely Macoma sp. A third type of shell resembling a snail is attached just above the Cardium shell. The top portion of the fossil appears red, likely from iron oxide present. Underside surface contains shell fragments and a partial imprint of a large, ribbed shell. |
Date |
23.03 to 5.333 Ma |
Catalog Number |
2014.009.047 |
Dimensions |
H-3.75 W-4 D-4.75 inches |
Collection |
3D - Biology |
Kingdom |
Animalia (Animals) |
Phylum |
Mollusca (Molluscs) |
Class |
Bivalvia (Bivalves) |
Order |
Veneroida (bivalve order) |
Family |
Pectinidae (Scallops) |
Genus |
Lyropecten |
Inscription Text |
none |
Provenance |
Fossils taken from Merced Formation collected at Westborough Boulevard at Highway 280 in the late 1970s or early 1980s. (See Yancey 1978, Fig. 2: Artifacts taken from E Stratified Section/D-5929). Most specimens (especially clams) in this collection are not extinct and can still be found in the Bay Area. |
Notes |
USGS Emeritus Charles Powell identified on 04/17/2018. Retired Geologist Ken Lajoie identified on 4/8/2014. Cardium nuttali (Common name: Cockle Shell) are large shells, measuring up to 14 centimeters in length. This species still thrives in the Bay Area. |
Search Terms |
Fossils Shellfish South San Francisco Merced Formation |
Subjects |
Fossils Shells Shellfish Marine biology |
Credit line |
Courtesy of Marilyn & Robert Moore |