Stromatolite (ca. 2-3 cm), Cambrian, MEX

Beautifully preserved fossil algae mats.Stromatolites (from the ancient Greek στρῶμα stroma = 'blanket', and λίθος lithos = 'stone') are some of the oldest fossils that can be found.  They are essentially algae, cyanobacteria or other microorganisms that grow in layers and collect sediment. Each newly formed layer collects sediment from percolating water. When the sediment fossilizes and the bacteria decompose, the layering remains. As they need calm water and have no defense mechanisms, they only grow in extreme environments today where their predators cannot survive, such as in Australia's Shark Bay.Age: CambrianLocality: MexicoSize: approx. 2-3 x 5- 6 cmColors on product photos may differ slightly from those of the original specimen for technical reasons.Our photos are for reference only, when purchasing you will receive a piece of comparable quality.

Mounds of microbial mats grown in fresh water, which only reach this size under very rare circumstances. Distinctive columnar structures and lamellae, black-orange banded.Large, impressive specimen!Age: Cretaceous, Maastrichtian, El Molino Formation, Puca Group;Locality: South Cochabamba, Oruro, Cercado province, BoliviaSize: approx. 11 x 5.5 x 4 cmColors in product photos may differ slightly from those of the original specimen for technical reasons.