Publication details
Some Latest Famennian and Early Tournaisian ophiuroids and holothuroids (Echinodermata) from the Moravian Karst
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| Year of publication | 2013 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
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| Description | This contribution is focused on the eleutherozoid echinoderms remains from interval of the Late Famennian Middle Palmatolepis gracilis expansa conodont Zone to the Early Tournaisian Siphonodella duplicata conodont Zone from the Lesní lom, Mokrá and Křtiny quarries (NE of Brno). The eleutherozoid echinoderms are generally less frequent than conodonts and ichthyolihs, however in two levels from the Lesní lom and Mokrá quarries (Famennian Protognathodus kockeli and Tournaisian Siphonodella bransoni Zones) are relatively common. Preservation of the skeletal remains is dependent on selective dolomitization or silicification. Preliminary ophiuroids of the order Oegophiurida (genus Furcaster ), Phrynophiurida (genus ?Eospondylus ) and Stenurida were determinated. Presented are mainly arm vertebrae. Holothurian sclerites belong to the order Dendrochirotida (body sclerites of the genus Eocaudina) and Apodida (wheel sclerites and peripharyngeal elements of the genus Achistrum ; ?Gagesiniotrochus ). The most distinctive feature is the mass occurrence of the eleutherozoids elements accompanied by abundant goniatites Acutimitoceras sp., bivalves Guerichia sp. and rare conodonts Protognathodus kockeli and Neopolygnathus communis communis just after the Hangenberg Event s. s. The mentioned fauna probably represents a pioneer association and the presence of commonly opportunistic generalists as are ophiuroids and holuthuroids fits into this scenario. The classes Ophiuroidea and Holothuroidea are reported for the first time from the Moravian Karst. The research of the eleutherozoid echinoderms in the Moravian Karst is at its beginning stage and further investigation could bring more detailed taxonomic evaluation and enhanced our knowledge about the Famennian and Tournaisian biodiversity. Acknowledgements: This research has been financially supported by the Czech Science Foundation (grant number P210/11/1891). |
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