Vetulocystis


Vetulocystis is an extinct genus of the family Vetulocystidae. It was found in the Maotianshan Shales, which date to roughly 518 mya.

Etymology

From the latin vetus, plus "cystidae" referencing the bag-like shape. The specific name is from the latin catena, meaning chain, as a pun on the fossil as a missing link.

Description

Vetulocystis is distinguished from Dianchicystis by a widening, rather than tapering, "tail". The posterior section appears to be divided into two. The anterior cone is pyramidal with over 50 articulated platelets. The posterior cone is pyramidal with many ribs.

Phylogeny

Works cited

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