soft tissue respresentation in the fossil record 3

[michael schmidt]

a great plesioteuthis specimen from Solnhofen Germany

 

[Phil]

That's a lovely Plesioteuthis, Michael. Do you happen to know what is the diagnostic feature of the Plesioteuthids? I'm pretty sure it is the long tapering gladius but have been unable to confirm this. I'm particularly curious as I have a specimen of this species though it is not as nice as the one you have shown us, sans arms, alas.

It's a pity that there is practically nothing available outside the world of academia available on prehistoric coleoids; believe me I've tried for this site but the information just isn't there.

 

[michael schmidt]

pleisoteuthis

According to the literature I have on Solnhofen, there are at least 8 known genus of this animal, and some have more than 1 species. As well, there are a few unnamed/undescribed animals. Plesioteuthis has a long narrow gladius which culminates into a cone- the fins are attached at the sides of this cone. Trachyteuthis is also fairly common cuttlefish. It has a heavy, massive ossa sepia which can reach lengths of up to 75cm, and becomes wing like and widened at its posterior end.

 

[Phil]

Thankyou very much. That's just the sort of detail I have been trying to determine.

Can you recommend any particular literature on the Solnhofen deposits?

 

[michael schmidt]

solnhofen literature

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-form/103-8059207-9546230

#2 and #4 by Frickhinger

they are the paleo indsutry standard. unfortunately, you'll have problems finding either in north america.....i think at least 1 is out of print