A new study published in the Contributions from the University of Michigan Museum of Paleontology highlights significant vertebrate fossil discoveries in Michigan’s Blue Ridge Esker locality within the Marshall Sandstone. The research, led by UMMP alumni James V. Andrews, Ethan A. Shirley, and Rodrigo T. Figueroa, expands understanding of Michigan’s Carboniferous ecosystems.
Key Findings:
- Newly identified specimens of sharks and relatives, lungfish, and a ray-finned fish—the first of its kind from the Marshall Sandstone.
- Fossils were found in a site previously known for invertebrates, emphasizing the importance of unexpected discoveries.
- CT scanning revealed hidden fossils, including void spaces shaped like ancient teeth, demonstrating the value of advanced technology in paleontology.
These findings contribute to reconstructing ancient ecosystems and comparing them with those in other regions. The research underscores the role of non-expert collectors and students in advancing science.
Find the complete paper here
