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8.8" Fossil Theropod (Spinosaurus?) Caudal Vertebra - Kem Kem Beds
This is a 8.8" tall, fossil proximal-caudal vertebra of a theropod (likely Spinosaurus) from the Kem Kem Beds of Morocco. The preservation of this vertebra is quite nice, though many of the processes are broken and weathered. The spinous process broke away near its base and wasn't recovered. One of the articular facets on both the anterior and posterior sides of this vertebra remained intact, while the adjacent facet on each side weathered/broke away. There is a repaired crack and glue stabilization along the base of the largest, most complete transverse process. The centrum is weathered along its edges, as well as fractured in spots throughout the body. The pedicles and vertebral foramen remained intact!
There are two large theropods known from the Kem Kem Beds, Spinosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus. Both have very similar anatomy at the bone level. There are some subtle differences but this bone lacks the markers needed to make a definitive distinction between these two giant theropods.
There are two large theropods known from the Kem Kem Beds, Spinosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus. Both have very similar anatomy at the bone level. There are some subtle differences but this bone lacks the markers needed to make a definitive distinction between these two giant theropods.
The Kem Kem Group
The Kem Kem Group, also known as the Kem Kem Beds, is a significant geological formation located in southeastern Morocco, specifically in the region of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. This formation dates back to the late Cretaceous period, approximately 95 million years ago. The Kem Kem Beds are primarily composed of sandstone, siltstone, and claystone, interspersed with various sedimentary features that indicate a fluvial to deltaic environment.
The Kem Kem Group is renowned for its rich fossil deposits, which include a diverse array of prehistoric fauna. It has yielded a wide variety of dinosaur fossils, including theropods like Spinosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus, as well as large Sauropod dinosaurs such as Rebbachisaurus. Additionally, the beds are home to many other fossilized creatures, including crocodiles, pterosaurs, fish, and a range of invertebrates.
Paleontologists consider the Kem Kem Group an important site for studying late Cretaceous ecosystems and the evolution of vertebrate life. The fossils found in this region have provided valuable insights into the diversity and behavior of prehistoric species, making it a key location for both scientific research and fossil collecting. The striking landscapes of the Kem Kem Beds, with their colorful rock formations and dramatic geological features, also attract geologists and tourists interested in the natural history of the area.
A paper on this assemblage can be found at: Vertebrate assemblages from the early Late Cretaceous of southeastern Morocco: An overview
One of the tunnels dug into the Kem Kem beds by local miners following the productive fossil beds.
The Kem Kem Group, also known as the Kem Kem Beds, is a significant geological formation located in southeastern Morocco, specifically in the region of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. This formation dates back to the late Cretaceous period, approximately 95 million years ago. The Kem Kem Beds are primarily composed of sandstone, siltstone, and claystone, interspersed with various sedimentary features that indicate a fluvial to deltaic environment.
The Kem Kem Group is renowned for its rich fossil deposits, which include a diverse array of prehistoric fauna. It has yielded a wide variety of dinosaur fossils, including theropods like Spinosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus, as well as large Sauropod dinosaurs such as Rebbachisaurus. Additionally, the beds are home to many other fossilized creatures, including crocodiles, pterosaurs, fish, and a range of invertebrates.
Paleontologists consider the Kem Kem Group an important site for studying late Cretaceous ecosystems and the evolution of vertebrate life. The fossils found in this region have provided valuable insights into the diversity and behavior of prehistoric species, making it a key location for both scientific research and fossil collecting. The striking landscapes of the Kem Kem Beds, with their colorful rock formations and dramatic geological features, also attract geologists and tourists interested in the natural history of the area.
A paper on this assemblage can be found at: Vertebrate assemblages from the early Late Cretaceous of southeastern Morocco: An overview
One of the tunnels dug into the Kem Kem beds by local miners following the productive fossil beds.
SPECIES
Spinosaurus sp.?
LOCATION
Kem Kem Basin, Morocco
FORMATION
Kem Kem Beds
SIZE
8.8 x 7.8 x 6.05"
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#153490
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