Name: Rhaphidiophorus
hystrix
Kingdom
Animalia (Metazoa), Phylum
Annelida, Class Polychaeta, Order Amphionomida, Family Amphionomidae
Geological
Time: Pennsylvanian (~300 m.y.a.)
Size: 27
mm long on a 39 mm by 35 mm nodule
Fossil
Site: Mazon Creek, Pit 11, Francis Creek shale, Braidwood, Illinois
The
Polychaeta (Bristleworms) have a diverse representation among Mazon
Creek specimens. The segmented bodies of the Polychaeta have paired
lobes called parapodia which have a function in locomotion or respiration.
The parapodia bear numerous bristles which are the source of the
name of the class (Polychaeta means many bristles). Modern members
of the family prey upon sponges; perhaps this one did as well This
one is known colloquially as the “Oliver Hardy Worm”
due to its presumed resemblance to the moustache of that famous
comedian.
Also
see: Annelid Fossils
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