The UK's Nationwide Geology Club for Children

Could Ben have Discovered a New Carboniferous Crustacean Species?

Ben's Carboniferous Crustacean Fossil

Ben’s Carboniferous Crustacean Fossil from Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland

Ben's Tooth Fossil from Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland

Ben’s Tooth Fossil from Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland

On a recent family field trip to Berwick-Upon-Tweed in Northumberland, Rockwatcher Ben unearthed not one but two fossil finds from the same boulder.

The first of these, probably a tooth, is fairly typical of the kind of fossil found on Northumberland’s beaches.

With the geology of Berwick-Upon-Tweed being formed of Carboniferous rocks mostly comprised of sandstone and limestone, this area is known for brachiopods, crinoids, corals and plant fossil remains.

So, Ben’s second fossil find pricked the interest of Rockwatch Ambassador, Michael Oates and Curator Dr Neil Clark because it doesn’t fit with the typical fossil species found from this period or location. Michael says that,

“the exciting aspect of this is that while it could just be a bit of prawn caught up in some concrete, it could also turn out to be a really ground-breaking new discovery”.Rockwatch Ambassador, Michael Oates

Dr Neil Clark affirms,

“whatever the case, it is a fascinating find that would benefit from being looked at in more detail”.Dr Neil Clark , Curator of Palaeontology at the Hunterian Museum in Glasgow

What do you think Ben’s fossil looks like? How would you feel if you discovered a brand new species?

We’re excited to hear the next installment of Ben’s story and will keep you all posted as the story unfolds…

Find out more about Ben’s fabulous finds.

Author: Helen Connolly

Share This Post On