Ecphora gardnerae
NameEcphora gardnerae
Scientific NameEcphora gardnerae
Common NameEcphora
FamilyEcphoridae
GenusEcphora
Speciesgardnerae
Geographic DistributionFossils are primarily found in Miocene deposits of the Atlantic Coastal Plain of North America, particularly in Maryland and Virginia (e.g., Calvert Formation, Choptank Formation).
Shell Shapeconical
Average Size (mm)50-75
Identifying FeaturesDistinguished by its prominent, often hollow, spiral keels (typically four on the body whorl), biconical to turbinate shape, and relatively large size. Specific keel morphology and overall shell proportions differentiate it from other Ecphora species.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Mansfield, 1930)
Description
The image displays a fossilized fragment of what appears to be an Ecphora gardnerae shell, largely embedded within a matrix of sandy, clay-like sediment and small rock fragments. The visible part of the shell is a reddish-brown to dark brown color, suggesting the original shell material has been replaced or stained by iron oxides. The shell fragment shows some of the characteristic ridging or ornamentation typical of Ecphora, though it is incomplete and partially obscured by the surrounding material. The specimen is shown in situ, surrounded by soil, small stones, and decaying leaves, indicating it was likely found in a natural geological deposit.
