Phosphatic nodules
(Phosphate nodules)

General abundance:  Common

As you can see, the nodules are round. Some are oblong.
Some appear to be doubles. Shape gives me the visual image
of what might be inside. So far I have found that the oblong
nodules are more likely to have spines/fins inside. The round
marble shaped ones have all the rest of the fauna. These nodules
remind me somewhat of the Mazon Creek nodules. After cracking
them open .... Many times there isn't anything inside. Many of
them contain no recognizable fossils. Others contain shapes I
do not recognize. The break may have cracked the fossil in half,
and I am looking at a cross section which makes identification
even more difficult.

The nodules weather quickly, and I often see tips of fossils
protruding. When wet the nodules are oily to the touch.

Phosphate nodules
Fossil Menu

Pennsylvanian Fossils of Missouri