Description
Coprolites, distinct from paleofaeces, are fossilized animal dung. Like other fossils, coprolites have had much of their original composition replaced by mineral deposits such as silicates and calcium carbonates.Paleofaeces, on the other hand, retain much of their original organic composition and can be reconstituted to determine their original chemical properties, though in practice the term coprolite is also used for ancient human faecal material in archaeological contexts. In the same context, there are the urolites, erosions caused by evacuation of liquid wastes and non-liquid urinary secretions. They serve a valuable purpose in paleontology because they provide direct evidence of the predation and diet of extinct organisms. Coprolites may range in size from a few millimetres to over 60 centimetres. This "Coprolite" specimen is said to belong to an ancient turtle. It dates back to about 5 Million years ago. It features great detail and color.
Dimensions: 3 1/4" L x 3/4" W
Provenance: Madagascar
Age: (Pliocene 5.3 - 1.8 MYA)
Type: Actual specimen- one only
