Description
These are Fossil Stylemys Tortoise Shell pieces from the Oligocene of South Dakota.
These have been preserved in great detail. These are only pieces that were found while surface collecting.
Most of the Fossils of turtles are those of the land tortoises. These Fossil Stylemys Tortoise Shell pieces are from the Oligocene formations in South Dakota. Because of the pressure of overlying sediment this turtle has some slight compression. But there is great detail in the shell material. Both the top and bottom of the shell are preserved. The best preserved and most commonly found one are in the oreodont beds of the White River Formation. Fossil land tortoises typically range in size from a few inches to as much as two feet in length but the average size is 10 – 12 inches long. Due to the shape and structure of the shell, it is clear that they were land tortoises. Skeletal remains are also common although shells containing complete skeletons and the tortoise’s skull are relatively rare.
The most common variety of tortoise found is that of Fossil Stylemys Turtle are the nebrascensis species. But others are occasionally found. Aquatic turtles are far rarer in White River formations.
These come in a 4 by 5 inch glass topped collectors case.
