7.4" Orthocone Nautilus Fossil - Montana

Orthocone Nautilus Fossil - Montana #217937

This is a 7.4" fossil orthocone nautilus of genus, Reticycloceras, from the Mississippian-aged Heath shale Formation in Montana. These nautiloids had long tapering cones much like other straight-shelled cephalopods that became less and less popular through the course of cephalopod evolution. An uncommon find and a great addttion to any collection.

It comes with an acrylic display stand.

A nautilus's shell is made up of two layers. The inner layer has the iridescent shine, while the outer layer provides protection from external forces. Inside the shell are septa that divide the living area of the shell into compartments and help the animal maintain balance and position in the water column.

Nautilus are "living fossils": species similar to this one still exist in our oceans!