Neorites

Neorites are a group of extinct marine invertebrates belonging to the class Crinoidea, often referred to as sea lilies or feather stars. They are characterized by their stalked morphology, typically attached to the seabed by a stem composed of numerous ossicles (small skeletal plates). Neorites existed during the Triassic period.

Characteristics:

• Stalked Crinoids: Neorites were stalked crinoids, meaning they possessed a stem anchoring them to the substrate. This contrasts with free-swimming crinoids like feather stars.
• Ossicles: The stem was made up of numerous disc-shaped ossicles stacked on top of each other. These ossicles fossilize readily and are commonly found in Triassic-aged rocks.
• Calice: At the top of the stem was the calice, or cup, which housed the animal's internal organs and from which arms extended for filter feeding.
• Filter Feeders: Like other crinoids, Neorites were passive suspension feeders, using their arms to capture plankton and other organic particles from the water column.
• Triassic Period: Fossils of Neorites are primarily found in marine sediments dating back to the Triassic period, indicating their temporal range.

Significance:

The study of Neorites and other crinoids contributes to our understanding of marine biodiversity during the Mesozoic Era, particularly the Triassic period. Their fossil record provides valuable insights into the evolution of crinoids and the ecological dynamics of ancient marine environments. The presence and distribution of Neorites fossils can also be used as biostratigraphic markers, helping to correlate and date sedimentary rock layers.