Fossil echinoderms including the edrioasteroid (IMAGE)

University of Tennessee at Knoxville

Fossil echinoderms including the edrioasteroid

Caption

Fossil echinoderms—including the edrioasteroid here (Carneyella pilea, Corryville Formation, Dent, Ohio, CMCIP 26324 specimen 12.8 mm wide) attached to a crinoid stem in life position—have a rich and diverse fossil record. Independent comparisons of their morphology and ecology during the Cambrian and Ordovician radiations demonstrates that anatomical novelty arose more rapidly and evolved in a more volatile fashion that served as a prerequisite for later ecological innovation.

Credit

Photo by Colin Sumrall

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.