Fossilized Early Holocene Era Indo-Pacific Mud Lobster Specimen. A well-preserved piece, missing only the front ends of its claws, the age determined by the coloration of the rock in which it is embedded, possibly around 11,000 years old. 

Size: 1 5/8 x 4 1/2 in. 

Thalassina is a genus of nocturnal mud lobsters that inhabit mangrove swamps across the Indian Ocean and western Pacific. These lobster-like animals are vital to their ecosystem because their deep burrowing recycles nutrients and creates large, volcano-like mounds that provide habitats for various other species. While they are occasionally eaten in Southeast Asia and used in traditional medicine to treat asthma, they are often viewed as pests for damaging the structures of fish and prawn farms. The genus is notable for an extensive fossil record dating back to the Miocene, with remarkably preserved specimens often found in hard mineral nodules. Though once thought to be a single species, modern taxonomy now recognizes eight distinct living species within this unique group of burrowing decapods.

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.