Allosaurus Dinosaur Tooth 1.15". Real Dinosaur Tooth
Complete tooth with some surface weathering. Tip glued. No other repair or restoration.
The Morrison Formation, particularly in Wyoming, is a significant and renowned geological formation dating back to the Late Jurassic period, roughly 156 to 148 million years ago. This formation extends over several U.S. states, but its deposits in Wyoming are especially notable for their rich and diverse fossil content.
Fossils Found in the Morrison Formation in Wyoming:
Allosaurus: This large carnivorous dinosaur is perhaps the most famous and abundantly found theropod in the Morrison Formation. Allosaurus, known for its large skull and powerful jaws, was a top predator of its time.
Diplodocus: This is one of the most common sauropods discovered in the Morrison Formation. Diplodocus is characterized by its long neck and tail and a small head. It was a massive herbivore, roaming in herds.
Stegosaurus: This distinctive dinosaur, known for its row of large, bony plates along its back and spiked tail, is another iconic resident of the Morrison Formation. Stegosaurus was a herbivore with a small head and a bulky body.
Other Dinosaurs: In addition to these well-known species, the Morrison Formation has yielded remains of other dinosaurs such as Apatosaurus, Brachiosaurus, and Camarasaurus, all of which are sauropods. Theropods like Ceratosaurus and Ornitholestes have also been discovered. Herbivorous dinosaurs such as Camptosaurus and Dryosaurus, and a variety of smaller creatures, were also part of this diverse ecosystem.
History of Digging and Paleontological Significance:
Paleontological excavations in the Morrison Formation began in earnest in the late 19th century, marking a significant period in American paleontology often referred to as the "Bone Wars." Notable paleontologists like Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope led these early fossil-hunting expeditions, resulting in the discovery and identification of many new dinosaur species.
The Morrison Formation's fossil beds have continued to be a rich source of Jurassic dinosaur fossils, offering valuable insights into the ecosystems of the Late Jurassic period. The formation's stratigraphy, consisting primarily of fluvial-lacustrine sedimentary rocks, has been instrumental in understanding the environmental conditions and the diversity of life forms of that era.
The diverse array of well-preserved fossils from the Morrison Formation has greatly contributed to our understanding of Jurassic ecosystems and continues to be a focal point for paleontological research and discoveries. The formation's deposits in Wyoming, in particular, have been pivotal in constructing a detailed picture of the Jurassic landscape, its flora and fauna, and the interactions within these ancient ecosystems.
Species
Allosaurus jimmadseni
AGE
Jurassic
LOCATION
Big Horn County, WY
FORMATION
Morrison Formation -- Salt Marsh Member
Size
1.15"
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