Inoceramus platinus
Cretaceous (82 m.y.o.)
Niobrara Formation
Smoky Hill Chalk
Gove County, Kansas, USA
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Complete gigantic bi-valve, 45” tall and 40” across (measured diagonally, from hinge to distal point). The perimeter of the shell measures over 10 feet. Specimen contains both the dorsal and ventral valves. Plus, the oyster displays two pathological injuries that occurred early in its life cycle. One injury (7" long) occurred when the oyster was about the size of a serving platter and the other injury (4" long) happened when it was about half its current size. The appearance of these injuries confirms that mollusks duplicate scars to their shell (pathologicals) with each succeeding growth cycle. Also, this STUNNING specimen displays hundreds of clearly defined rings; each one resembling the growth ring in a tree. Clearly defined areas of color variation are also present; these could be the RARE preservation of its "in-life" appearance. Several small colonies of the rudist, Pseudoperna congesta, are attached to the shell.
Scientists have determined that these giant oysters grew very large and thin in order to spread their weight over a larger area and allow them to "float" upon the aqueous ocean bottom; the "soupy" sediment could not support heavy invertebrates. This evolutionary adaptation has been termed the "snowshoe effect". Specimen has been prepared "as discovered" and rests in its refined field jacket. Some small fracture repair with very minimal restoration. Preservation is OUTSTANDING!
Weight is approximately 100 lbs. Custom wood crate included. Shipping by truck or air freight only.
Stock #4236
Price upon request
Please call 785-650-4854 for additional details.
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