Shell structure of the Devonian retziid brachiopod Plectospira ferita
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Electron microscope studies of Plectospira ferita (von Buch) show the presence of two inorganic layers, primary and secondary, as well as a third, outermost one interpreted here as a periostracum. This is the first time a periostracum has been recognized in the fossil state. The structure of the periostracum of P. ferita is described and a comparison is made with periostraca of living brachiopods. The micro-ornamentation of the shell of P. ferita is described; pits and tubercles occurring on the surface of the primary layer are considered in detail.
Palaeontology - Volume 25 Part 4 Pages 857-867Palaeontology - Volume 25 Part 4 Pages 857-867
Citations
BIERNAT, G., BALIŃSKI, A. 1982. Shell structure of the Devonian retziid brachiopod Plectospira ferita. Palaeontology, 25, 4, 857–867.