Ammonite Fossil
Named after the Egyptian God "Ammon," who was known as having ram's horns behind each ear; ammonites existed throughout the Mesozioc era which began 240 million years ago. Ammonites became extinct along with the dinosaurs; about 65 million years ago. They were part of the cephalopod family and are relatives of today's octopus, squid and nautilus. The ammonite's coiled shell served as protection and support. The shell contained air-filled chambers which the animal used as navigation by regulating the air pressure in the shell. The ammonite animal itself only lived in the outer-most portion of the shell. |