Graptolite
NameGraptolite
Scientific NameGraptolithina
Common NameGraptolite
Geologic PeriodOrdovician, Silurian (primarily)
Geologic Erapaleozoic
Age (Million Years Ago)485.4 - 419.2
Taxonomic ClassificationAnimalia Hemichordata Graptolithina
Type of Fossilbody
Preservation Qualitygood
DietFilter feeder (suspension feeder)
HabitatMarine (pelagic for planktonic forms, benthic for sessile forms)
Raritycommon
Description
Graptolites are extinct colonial marine animals, typically preserved as carbonized films on sedimentary rocks, especially shales. They are characterized by their distinctive saw-like or branching patterns, representing the rhabdosome (colony structure). They were important index fossils for the Ordovician and Silurian periods.
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