2.2" Polished Cut Slab Of Fossil Turritella Shells Eocene Age Wyoming Gastropod Shells
Location: Wyoming, United States
Weight: 1.1 Ounces
Dimensions: 2.2 Inches Long, 1.2 Inches Wide, 0.3 Inches Thick
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Fossil Turritella shells found in Wyoming are primarily associated with the Eocene Green River Formation, specifically the "Turritella beds" within its Wilkins Peak Member. These gastropod shells, belonging to the genus Turritella, are characterized by their high-spired, conical shape and numerous whorls. The abundance of these shells in certain layers indicates ancient shallow marine or brackish water environments that supported large populations of these filter-feeding snails
The occurrence of Turritella fossils in Wyoming offers valuable insight into the paleogeographic and paleoecological history of the region during the Eocene epoch. These fossils are preserved within the Green River Formation, a deposit famous for its exceptional fossil record—including fish, insects, and plants—made possible by the low-oxygen conditions of ancient lake environments.
The Turritella beds represent a distinct sedimentary facies within this lacustrine system, indicating episodes when marine influence or brackish-water conditions temporarily affected an otherwise freshwater setting. Detailed analysis of the shell morphology, abundance, and distribution allows paleontologists to reconstruct ancient ecosystems and better understand the environmental shifts that shaped Wyoming millions of years ago.
