Paleofauna of the Mazon Creek fossil beds

This is a list of the fauna of the Mazon Creek fossil beds, a Carboniferous lagerstätte located in Grundy County, Illinois. The site is famous for its exceptional preservation of soft bodied fossils inside of ironstone concretions, and was one of the first fossil sites discovered to preserve soft bodied fossils.

The Mazon Creek fossil beds are around 309-307 million years old, being approximately Moscovian in age. During the Carboniferous, this area was a lush, tropical delta system, about 10° north latitude of the equator. This ecosystem was formed by at least one river system that flowed in from the northeastern united states and met the ocean to form an Estuarine environment. This large amount of habitat led to the creation of a very diverse ecosystem, which has been divided into two main sections, the marine Essex fauna, and the terrestrial/freshwater Braidwood fauna. Since the site's discovery in the early 20th century, more than 700 species of flora and fauna have been discovered, some of which have only been found at this site. Because of the diverse habitat types, many different groups, such as arthropods, mollusks, hemichordates, cnidarians, chondrichthyans, actinopterygians, tetrapods and various other groups are represented.[1][2][3][4][5]

Fauna

Cnidaria

A number of Cnidarians are known from Mazon Creek, and show the diversity of taxa in the ecosystem.[6]

Cnidaria
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Essexella Cnidaria Actiniaria
  • E. asherae
One of the most abundant taxa from Mazon Creek, Originally described as a scyphozoan in 1979, but was later re-described as an actiniarian in 2023[7]
Reticulomedusa Cnidaria Incertae sedis
  • R. greenei
Another cnidarian once described as a scyphozoan, but most likely represents a synonym of Essexella
Anthracomedusa Cnidaria Cubozoa
  • A. turnbulli
A jellyfish, though not a member of the Scyphozoa (true jellyfish) but instead a cubozoan (box jellyfish)
Octomedusa Cnidaria Coronatae?
  • O. pieckorum
A bizarre scyphozoan, originally considered to be a basal coronatan (crown jellyfish), however this has been questioned by later studies
Drevotella Cnidaria Hydroidolina
  • D. proteana
A cnidarian, and a member of the Hydroidolina within the Hydrozoa
Mazohydra Cnidaria Hydroidolina
  • M. megabertha
Another hydrozoan, and one of the first fossil taxa from the class to be discovered[8]

Annelida

A number of annelid worms are known from Mazon Creek.[9][6]

Annelida
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Coprinoscolex Annelida Echiura
  • C. ellogimus
Originally considered to be the oldest definitive echiuran (spoon worms), before the discovery of taxa from Castle Bank[10][11]
Rhaphidiophorus Annelida Amphinomida
  • R. hystrix
A member of the Amphinomida, and one of the earliest known members of the group, nicknamed the 'Oliver Hardy Worm'[12]
Esconites Annelida Eunicida
  • E. zelus
A member of the Eunicida, showing the distinctive mouthparts, of the group, and reaches around 14 cm.[13]
Mazopherusa Annelida Terebellida
  • M. prinosi
A member of the Flabelligeridae family (fan worms), and one of the few known fossil taxa from the family[14]
Didontogaster Annelida Phyllodocida
  • D. cordylina
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Tummy Tooth Worm', named after the swollen section of its body containing the worms mouthparts
Levisettius Annelida Phyllodocida
  • L. campylonectus
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Riccardo Worm'
Astreptoscolex Annelida Phyllodocida
  • A. anasillosus
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Plain Worm'
Rutellifrons Annelida Phyllodocida
  • R. wolfforum
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Shovel Nose Worm'
Pieckonia Annelida Phyllodocida
  • P. helenae
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Fish Worm'
Fossundecima Annelida Phyllodocida
  • F. konecniorum
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Simple Jaw Worm', one of the most common worms of the Essex Fauna
Dryptoscolex Annelida Phyllodocida
  • D. matthiesae
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Rat Worm'
Hystriciola Annelida Phyllodocida
  • H. delicatula
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Baby Tooth Worm'
Fastuoscolex Annelida Phyllodocida
  • F. gemmatus
A phyllodocid often nicknamed the 'Papillae Worm'

Mollusca

A very large number of Mollusks are known from Mazon Creek, with Multiple classes being represented.[5]

Polyplacophora and Gastropoda

Various polyplacophorans (chitons) and gastropods (snails and their relatives) are known from the area.[5]

Polyplacophora and Gastropoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Glaphurochiton Polyplacophora Lepidopleuridae
  • P. concinnus
A chiton found with a very well-preserved radula, which is almost identical to that of modern species[15]
Euphemites Gastropoda (?) Euphemitidae
  • E. richardsoni
A bizarre mollusk belonging to the Bellerophontida, whose taxonomy has not yet been fully resolved[16]
Hypeselentoma Gastropoda Gosseletinidae
  • H. cf. perhumerosa
A gosseletinid gastropod known from various other localities[17]
Straparollus[17] Gastropoda Straparollinidae
  • S. sp.
Naticopsis Gastropoda Neritopsidae
  • N. sp.
A gastropod who still has modern relatives in the same family[18]
Strobeus[17] Gastropoda Soleniscidae
  • S. cf. primigenius

Bivalvia

A large number of bivalves are known from Mazon Creek, and by far represent the most diverse and abundant group of mollusks from the area.

Bivalvia
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Mazonomya Solemyida Solemyidae
  • M. mazonensis
A solemyid, and one of the most abundant bivalves from Mazon Creek, known from the Chowder Flats locality among others, and often nicknamed 'Clam-Clam'[19]
Acharax Solemyida Solemyidae
  • A. radiata
  • A. trapezoides
Members of the still living genus Acharax, and both known from the Essex Fauna
Myalina Pteriida Myalinidae
  • M. meeki
  • M. sp.
Originally described as 'Myalinella', and like modern relatives, are known for their elongated, wing-like shells[20]
Anthraconaia Pteriida Myalinidae
  • A. ohioensis
Known for its superficial resemblance to some modern mussels[21]
Anthraconauta Pteriida Myalinidae
  • A. sp.
Known for its resemblance to Anthraconaia[21]
Leptodesma Pteriida Myalinidae
  • L. ohioensis
A myalinid with a fossil record going back to the Silurian[22]
Posidonia[23] Pteriida Myalinidae
  • P. fracta
Aviculopecten Pectinida Aviculopectinidae
  • A. mazonensis
A wide ranging, and diverse genus of scallop, with the youngest record being in the upper Triassic[24]
Acanthopecten Pectinida Aviculopectinidae
  • A. sp.
A similar scallop to the contemporary Aviculopecten, and a member of the same family[23]
Heteropecten Pectinida Aviculopectinidae
  • H. exemplarius
Originally considered a synonym of Aviculopecten, before being recognized as a distinct taxon[23]
Euchondria Pectinida Aviculopectinidae
  • E. pellucida
This species usually attains lengths of 9–10 mm, while other species in the genus have been known to exceed 25 mm[25]
Dunbarella Pectinida Pterinopectinidae
  • D. striata
  • D. sp.
Some species in this genus may have been able to swim away from predators like extant taxa[26]
Palaeolima Limida Limidae
  • P. retifera
An early member of the limidae, also known as file shells[27]
Schizodus Trigoniida Schizodidae
  • S. cf. wheeleri
  • S. cf. affinis
An example of a schizodont, bivalves possessing reverse v-shaped scissurate hinge teeth[28]
Permophorus Venerida Permophoridae
  • P. spinulosa
  • P. sp.
Known for its elongated, and thick valves, and known throughout the Carboniferous[29]
Edmondia Adapedonta Edmondiidae
  • E. ovata
  • E. oblonga
  • E. aspinwallensis
A distant relative of modern razor shells[30]
Sedgwickia Adapedonta Edmondiidae
  • S. sp.
Another member of the Edmondiidae, and is rather uncommon at Mazon Creek[23]
Grammysioidea Adapedonta Edmondiidae
  • G. hayi
A rarely found bivalve at Mazon Creek[23]
Cephalopoda

A number of cephalopods are known from Mazon Creek, including shelled taxa, and basal coleoids.

Cephalopoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Jeletzkya Coleoidea Belemnoidea
  • J. douglassae
A genus of basal coleoid within the Belemnoidea, however it is too poorly understood for a more specific placement, known from arms and radulas[31]
Bactrites Neocephalopoda Bactritidae
  • B. sp.
A straight shelled (orthoconic) cephalopod, and a member of the Bactritida[32]
Wiedeyoceras Ammonoidea Wiedeyoceratidae
  • W. sp.
A member of the Ammonoidea, more specifically a goniatite. Fossils of this genus have been tentatively reported from Mazon Creek[32]
Unidentified schistoceratid Ammonoidea Schistoceratidae
  • Schistoceratid. sp
Fossils from this site have been placed within the goniatite family Schistoceratidae, however genus level identification has not been found[32]
Stearoceras Nautiloidea Grypoceratidae
  • S. sp.
A coil-shelled nautiloid, and a distant relative of modern nautilids[32]
Titanoceras Nautiloidea Grypoceratidae
  • T. sp.
A fairly large sized member of the Grypoceratidae, with a shell diameter of around 8 in (20 cm) being recorded[32]
Paleocadmus Cephalopoda Incertae sedis
  • P. herdinae
  • P. pohli
  • P. sp.
A cephalopod from mazon creek only known from isolated radulas and a potential beak, often placed within the Nautiloidea, but the lack of body fossils renders even an order level identification as problematic[32]

Brachiopoda

A small number of brachiopods are known from Mazon Creek.[33]

Brachiopoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Lingula (?) Brachiopoda Lingulida
  • L. sp.
A common brachiopod in the fossil record, however the majority of specimens most likely represent unrelated species, and definitive specimens of the genus are only known from the Cenozoic[34]
Orbiculoidea Brachiopoda Discinida
  • O. sp.
Another common brachiopod in the fossil record, known for its near circular, disk-shaped shell[33]
Unidentified chonetoids Brachiopoda Strophomenida Various species Several undescribed brachiopods in Strophomenida order are known from the site[33]

Echinodermata

Echinoderms are an undiverse faunal component of Mazon Creek.[33]

Brachiopoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Achistrum Holothuroidea Achistridae
  • A. sp.
A taxon of footless (without tube feet) sea cucumber known from various species from both North America and Europe[35]
Unidentified crinoids Crinoidea Various groups Various species A number of undescribed crinoids with stalks (sea lilies) are known from the area[33]

Non-Arthropod Panarthropoda

A small number of non-arthropod panarthropods (notably onychophorans and similar taxa) are known from Mazon Creek.

Non-Arthropod Panarthropoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Carbotubulus Panarthropoda Hallucigeniidae (?)
  • C. waloszeki
One of the youngest known lobopodians in the fossil record, originally assigned to Hallucigeniidae, however this has been questioned by later studies[36]
Helenodora Panarthropoda Onychophora

(stem-group)

  • H. inopinata
One of the oldest known onychophorans (velvet worms), originally considered a synonym of the contemporary Ilyodes[37][38]
Ilyodes Panarthropoda Incertae sedis
  • I. divisa
  • I. elongata
Originally named as a myriapod in 1890, however, it may represent a nomen dubium, due to neither species being properly diagnosed
Palaeocampa Panarthropoda Aysheaiidae
  • P. anthrax
First known freshwater and toxic lobopodian, and the youngest known aysheaiid. Bears spines unlike any other known animal[39]

Artiopoda

The artiopoda (including trilobites and their close relatives) are very rare from Mazon Creek, with only a singular taxon represented.

Artiopoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Tardisia Artiopoda Vicissicaudata
  • T. broedeae
Latest known non-trilobite artiopod, and a close relative of the Cheloniellida[40]

Chelicerata

A high number of arthropods belonging to the chelicerata subphylum are known from Mazon Creek.[33][41]

Chelicerata
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Adelophthalmus Eurypterida Adelophthalmidae
  • A. mazonensis
The only eurypterid from Mazon Creek, and the youngest member of the Eurypterina
Euproops Xiphosura Belinuridae
  • E. danae
A genus of xiphosurid related to modern horseshoe crabs, interestingly, juveniles may have been semi-aquatic, due to their bristle covered undersides[42]
Paleolimulus Xiphosura Paleolimulidae
  • P. sp.
A wide ranging, and well known genus of xiphosuran, known from number of other deposits

Arachnida

A large number of arachnids are known from Mazon Creek, with some belonging to extinct groups, while others represent some of the earliest appearances of crown-group lineages.

Arachnida
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Aphantomartus Trigonotarbida Aphantomartidae
  • A. pustulatus
A very small member of the Trigonotarbida, species from this genus are also known from areas outside of North America, including parts of Europe[43]
Pleophrynus Trigonotarbida Eophrynidae
  • P. verrucosus
Another small sized trigonotarbid, its holotype specimen (ISM 14873) was discovered at Mazon Creek[44]
Unidentified anthracomartid Trigonotarbida Anthracomartidae
  • Anthracomartid. sp
An unidentified trigonotarbid from the Anthracomartidae family, and is very rare[45]
Lissomartus Trigonotarbida Lissomartidae
  • L. carbonarius
  • L. schucherti
A trigonotarbid, with both species known from North America, and belongs to its own family[45]
Geralinura Uropygi Incertae sedis
  • G. carbonaria
An early whip scorpion, which possessed spined and non-chelate pedipalps, unlike modern genera[46]
Prothelyphonus Uropygi Incertae sedis
  • P. sp.
A large, nearly 30 mm long whip scorpion, and one of the largest known members of its group from the Paleozoic[47]
Weygoldtina Amblypygi Weygoldtinidae
  • W. scudderi
A tailless whip scorpion, originally described under the Graeophonus genus, however, it was redescribed as its own taxon in 2018, with a second species known from Europe[48]
Thelyphrynus Amblypygi Incertae sedis
  • T. elongatus
Another amblypygid, distinguished by its bean shaped cephalothorax and the seeming lack of eyes[45]
Arthrolycosa Araneae (?) Arthrolycosidae
  • A. antiqua
A bizarre arachnid of the Arthrolycosidae family, suggested to be basal true spiders, however this remains somewhat contentious[49]
Curculioides Ricinulei Curculioididae
  • C. mcluckiei
  • C. scaber
  • C. gigas
A member of the Ricinulei, and known in Mazon Creek from three species, the one pictured here is C. scaber[45]
Amarixys Ricinulei Curculioididae
  • A. sulcata
  • A. gracillis
  • A. stellaris
Another ricinuleid known from three species[45]
Poliochera Ricinulei Poliocheridae
  • P. glabra
  • P. gibbsi
Various species are known from other regions of North America[45]
Protosolpuga Solifugae Protosolpugidae
  • P. carbonaria
The only known member of the Solifugae from the site, and a very rare taxon at Mazon Creek[45]
Eoscorpius Scorpiones Eoscorpiidae
  • E. carbonarius
  • E. cf. pulcher
  • E. mucronatus
A wide ranging, and successful scorpion known from various localities from the lower Carboniferous-Lower Permian, with the type fossil coming from Mazon Creek[50]
Palaeobuthus Scorpiones Palaeobuthidae
  • P. distinctus
A modest sized scorpion, with the holotype specimen potentially reaching a length of around 55 mm long[45]
Kronoscorpio Scorpiones Kronoscorpionidae
  • K. danielsi
Another scorpion, and a more recent taxon described by Dunlop et al. 2013[51]
Palaeopisthacanthus Scorpiones Palaeopisthacanthidae
  • P. schucherti
A scorpion known from at least a very well-preserved holotype specimen[45]
Buthiscorpius Scorpiones Buthiscorpiidae
  • B. cf. lemayi
Mazon creek is the type locality for this genus[51]
Eoctenus Scorpiones Eoctonidae
  • E. minatus
The holotype of this taxon (YPM 131) was described by Petrunkevitch (1913)[45]
Hadrachne Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • H. horribilis
This genus may represent a very old instar of the contemporary Architarbus[45]
Paratarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • P. carbonarius
Known mainly for its somewhat convex prosomal margin[45]
Mesotarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • M. extraneus
The reconstruction to the right does not depict the species from Mazon Creek[45]
Architarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • A. rotundatus
The namesake taxon of the Architarbidae family[45]
Mazonitarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • M. minor
Similarly to Hadrachne, this taxon may represent an instar of Architarbus[45]
Bicarinitarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • B. pieckorum
The opisthosoma of this taxon possesses a pair of keels[45]
Phalangiotarbus Phalangiotarbida Architarbidae
  • P. lacoei
The namesake taxon of its order[45]
Nemastomoides Opiliones Nemastomoididae
  • N. longipes
An early harvestmen, with two valid species, and one which has since been redescribed as a phalangiotarbid[52]
Douglassarachne Arachnida Pantetrapulmonata
  • D. acanthopoda
A unique species distinguished by the long spines on its limbs, it is unclear where this species places specifically within Arachnida[53]

Mandibulata

A very large number of arthropods belonging to the mandibulata are known from Mazon Creek.

Mandibulata
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Concavicaris Thylacocephala Concavicarida
  • C. georgeorum
  • C. remipes
Bears an unusual terminal structure which may be a caudal furca[54]
Convexicaris Thylacocephala Concavicarida
  • C. mazonensis
Bears eight pairs of trunk appendages[55]
Eodollocaris Thylacocephala
  • E. keithflinti
Resembles Mesozoic thylacocephalans like Dollocaris[55]
Pieckoxerxes Euthycarcinoidea Incertae sedis
  • P. pieckoae
A euthycarcinoid (stem-myriapod), and like its relatives from Mazon Creek, is very rare[56]
Smithixerxes Euthycarcinoidea Kottixerxidae
  • S. juliarum
Another euthycarcinoid, known for its long telson and five tergites on its trunk region (which is a clear feature for distinguishing the Mazon Creek euthycarcinoids)[56]
Kottixerxes Euthycarcinoidea Kottixerxidae
  • K. gloriosus
Another rare euthycarcinoid, of which only two specimens have been documented[56]

Myriapoda

The myriapoda (centipedes, millipedes, and their close relatives) are known in moderately large numbers in Mazon Creek

Myriapoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Amynilyspes Diplopoda Amynilyspedida
  • A. wortheni
An early pill millipede which featured long spines and prominent eyes, also known from Europe[57]
Unidentified Amynilyspedid Diplopoda Amynilyspedida
  • Amynilyspedid. sp
A currently unnamed pill millipede which is notable due to its lack of spines
Euphoberia Diplopoda Euphoberiidae
  • E. armigera
A basal, spiny millipede, curiously, juvenile individuals seemingly congregated together as a defense mechanism[58]
Acantherpestes Diplopoda Euphoberiidae
  • A. horridus
  • A. major
  • A. sp.
Another euphoberiid, known for its laterally facing spines, and its potential liking to more open habitats[59]
Myriacantherpestes Diplopoda Euphoberiidae
  • M. hystricosus
  • M. inequalis
A euphoberiid characterized by its long spines and more flattened body[60]
Xyloiulus Diplopoda Xyloiulidae
  • X. mazonus
  • X. sp.
A flat-backed millipede, originally placed within the Spirobolida, however is now considered a problematic member of the Juliformia[61]
Pleurojulus Diplopoda Pleurojulidae
  • P. cf. biornatus
A member of the Pleurojulida, a somewhat problematic group of millipedes whose relationship to other groups is unclear[62]
Zosterogrammus Diplopoda Zosterogrammidae
  • Z. stichostethus
A member of the Zosterogrammida, which superficially resemble modern polyzoniids, and extend from the Silurian-upper Carboniferous[63]
Arthropleura Diplopoda Arthropleuridae
  • A. cristata
A giant diplopodan, and one of the most well-known arthropods in the fossil record, primarily inhabited more open environments away from coal swamps, and was potentially amphibious[64][65]
Archiulus Diplopoda Helminthomorpha
  • A. glomeratus
A millipede of uncertain placement, and is not easily assignable to any order
Mazoscolopendra Chilopoda Scolopendromorpha
  • M. richardsoni
A scolopendromorphid centipede of uncertain placement, however the original description suggested a placement within the Cryptopidae[66]
Palenarthrus Chilopoda Scolopendromorpha
  • P. impressus
Another scolopendromorphid whose further taxonomy is questioned[67]
Latzelia Chilopoda Latzeliidae
  • L. primordialis
A member of the Scutigeromorpha, and was first described in 1890, in honor of Austrian zoologist Robert Latzel[68][69]

Non-Hexapod Pancrustacea

A number of 'traditional' crustaceans are known from Mazon creek, with the majority belonging to extant groups.

Non-Hexapod Pancrustacea
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Cryptocaris Remipedia Enantiopoda
  • C. hootchi
A basal remipede, and a close relative of the only other known fossil remipede, Tesnusocaris [70]
Kallidecthes Aeschronectida Kallidecthidae
  • K. richardsoni
A member of the Aeschronectida, an extinct group distantly related to the stomatopods[71]
Tyrannophontes Stomatopoda Tyrannophontidae
  • T. theridion
  • T. gigantion
A basal mantis shrimp, unlike modern species, it seems that this taxon was most likely swimming above the seafloor, and was probably unable to have walked on the benthos[72]
Palaeocaris Syncarida Palaeocarididae
  • P. typus
A basal member of the Syncarida, also known from the older Manning Canyon Shale[73]
Acanthotelson Syncarida Acanthotelsonidae
  • A. stimpsoni
Another basal syncaridan, and one of the most common crustaceans known from Mazon Creek[74]
Palaeosyncaris[75] Syncarida Palaeocaridacea
  • P. micra
Belotelson Belotelsonidea Belotelsonidae
  • B. magister
One of the more well-known crustaceans from Mazon creek[76]
Lobetelson Belotelsonidea Belotelsonidae
  • L. mclaughlinae
Another belotelsonid, one of the major differences between it and the contemporary Belotelson, is the formers larger tail-fan[76]
Peachocaris Lophogastrida Peachocarididae
  • P. strongi
A member of the Lophogastrida, a group of shrimp-like crustaceans which are mainly confined to deep water pelagic marine environments in the present[77][78]
Anthracaris Pygocephalomorpha Pygocephalidae
  • A. gracilis
A peracaridian, and also known from deposits in Europe[79]
Mamayocaris Pygocephalomorpha Pygocephalidae
  • M. jaskoskii
Another member of the Pygocephalomorpha[80]
Anthracophausia Mysidacea (?) Incertae sedis
  • A. ingelsorum
a malacostracan of uncertain placement, potentially a member of the Mysidacea, but it's true placement is still problematic[81]
Essoidia Mysidacea (?) Incertae sedis
  • E. epiceron
Another potential mysidacean, often nicknamed the 'S-shrimp', due to its long posterior region and telson, often giving its fossils a curved shape[82]
Hesslerella Isopoda Phreatoicidea
  • H. shermani
A basal isopod, and a relatively rare faunal component of Mazon creek, at the time of its description, it was the oldest known isopod[83]
Eucryptocaris Tanaidacea Anthracocarididae
  • E. asherorum
A member of the Tanaidacea, originally described as a species of Cryptocaris by Schram, 1974[82][84]
Dithyrocaris Phyllocarida Archaeostraca
  • D. sp.
A wide ranging and diverse taxon of phyllocarid, the image on the right does not show the species from Mazon Creek, instead showing a species from the slightly older Breathitt Formation in Kentucky[85][86]
Kellibrooksia Phyllocarida Sairocarididae
  • K. macrogaster
A phyllocarid belonging to the Hoplostraca order, and possesses an elongated trunk and telson[87]
Leaia Spinicaudata Leaiidae
  • L. tricarinata
A clam shrimp within the Conchostraca, and represents the only group of branchiopods present at Mazon Creek[88]
Pemphilimnadiopsis Spinicaudata Pemphilimnadiopsidae
  • P. ortoni
Another clam shrimp, also known from China[89]
Illilepas Cirripedia Pedunculata
  • I. damrowi
A gooseneck barnacle, originally placed in the Praelepas genus before being redescribed as a separate taxon in 1986[90]
Americlus Cyclida Americlidae
  • A. americanus
A crab-like crustacean belonging to the Cyclida, originally described under the Cyclus genus, and a well known taxon from Mazon Creek[91]
Dziklus Cyclida Americlidae
  • D. obesus
Similarly to its contemporary relative, this cyclid was originally placed within the Cyclus genus before being redescribed in 2020[92]
Schramine Cyclida Schraminidae
  • S. max
This species was originally placed within the Halicyne genus until its redescription in 2020[92]
Apionicon Cyclida Schraminidae
  • A. apioides
The only known species was first discovered at Mazon Creek[93]
Geisina Ostracoda Geisinidae
  • G. robusta
A genus of freshwater ostracod known from throughout the Carboniferous[94]
Paraparchites Ostracoda Paraparchitidae
  • P. mazonensis
Another ostracod, members of this genus are known to have retained multiple shed molts, giving their carapaces a multi-layered look[95][96]

Hexapoda

Members of the hexapoda (insects and their relatives) constitute the most diverse group of animals known from Mazon Creek

Hexapoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Testajapyx Diplura (?) Testajapygidae
  • T. thomasi
A wingless non-insect hexapod of the Diplura, unlike modern relatives, this taxon had eyes and mouthparts more similar to those of true insects,[97] however, more recent studies have shown that this taxon may be a true insect, within the Dermaptera[98]
"Dasyleptus" Archaeognatha Dasyleptidae
  • D. sp.
A basal wingless insect, the specimens from Mazon Creek are putative, with some publications considering them to be chimeric in nature[99]
Ramsdelepidion Zygentoma (?) Incertae sedis
  • R. schusteri
A large (6 cm long) hexapod of uncertain placement, with some publications arguing for several different placements, including among the Zygentoma, stem-group Hexapoda, or as a large ephemeropteran nymph[99]
Archimylacris Blattoptera Archimylacridae
  • A. paucinervis
An early dictyopteran insect, and a "roachoid", despite its appearance, it wasn't closely related to true cockroaches[100]
Progonoblattina Blattoptera Gyroblattidae
  • P. sp. indet.
A roachoid, the holotype specimen (YPM IP 008412) was originally assigned to Megablattina, before being reassigned to Archoblattina, before finally being reassigned to Progonoblattina in 2023[101]
Mylacris Blattoptera Mylacridae
  • M. gurleyi
A roachoid described in 1895[102]
Lithoneura Ephemeroptera (?) Syntonopteridae
  • L. pieko
  • L. mirifica
  • L. clayesi
  • L. lameerei
  • L. carpenteri
A possible early mayfly, while some studies have questioned this placement, others support it[103]
Syntonoptera Ephemeroptera (?) Syntonopteridae
  • S. schucherti
Another early mayfly of the Syntonopteridae[104]
Oligotypus Meganisoptera Paralogidae
  • O. makowskii
A relatively small member of the Meganisoptera (griffinflies), and known from various sites across Carboniferous and Permian strata[105]
Dragonympha Meganisoptera Incertae sedis
  • D. srokai
A griffinfly known only from nymphal remains, of which, the adult form has not yet been confirmed amongst the already known meganisopteran taxa from the area[106]
Alanympha Meganisoptera Incertae sedis
  • A. richardsoni
Only known from a forewing and plates belonging to a nymphal individual[106]
Paralogopsis Meganisoptera Incertae sedis
  • P. longipes
Another griffinfly of uncertain placement within its order[105]
Carbonympha 'Eomeganisoptera' Incertae sedis
Parapaolia[107] Pterygota Incertae sedis
  • P. superba
Sypharoptera Diaphanopterodea (?) Sypharopteridae
  • S. pneuma
A large insect of uncertain placement, but it may belong to the Diaphanopterodea[108]
Prochoroptera Diaphanopterodea Prochoropteridae
  • P. calopteryx
A member of the Diaphanopterodea, a group that would go on to survive until the end of the Permian[109]
Eubleptus Palaeodictyoptera Eubleptidae
  • E. danielsi
  • E. maculosus
A member of the Palaeodictyoptera, a group of large flying mainly herbivorous insects[110]
Lycodemas Palaeodictyoptera Lycocercidae
  • L. adolescens
Known from nymphal remains, including older instars[111]
Notorachis[105] Palaeodictyoptera Lycocercidae
  • N. wolfforum
Mcluckiepteron Palaeodictyoptera Spilapteridae
  • M. luciae
Named after the McLuckie family, who were prominent Mazon Creek collectors and early ESCONI members[112]
Homaloneura Palaeodictyoptera Spilapteridae The species on the right is H. ligeia
Bizarrea Palaeodictyoptera Spilapteridae
  • B. obscura
A palaeodictyopteran known from larval remains[114]
Spilaptera Palaeodictyoptera Spilapteridae
Mazothairos Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
  • M. enormis
A potentially giant palaeodictyopteran, and possibly one of the largest flying insects to have ever lived, however it is known from very fragmentary remains, so size estimates are tentative at best[115]
Mazonopterum Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Amousus Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Thesoneura Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae The image to the right is a replica model
Scepasma Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Ametretus Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Larryia Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Mammia Palaeodictyoptera Homoiopteridae
Hypermegethes Palaeodictyoptera Hypermegethidae
  • H. schucherti
Other species are known from deposits in Kansas[116]
Turnbullia Palaeodictyoptera Incertae sedis
Diexodus Palaeodictyoptera Incertae sedis
Palaiotaptus Palaeodictyoptera Incertae sedis
Eubrodia Megasecoptera Brodiidae
  • E. dabasinskasi
A close relative of the palaeodictyopterans, with a similar ecological role as well[118]
Lameereites Megasecoptera Brodiidae
  • L. curvipennis
A megasecopteran known from immature remains[119]
Mischoptera Megasecoptera Mischopteridae
  • M. douglassi
In the image on the right, B and C depict the species from Mazon creek, specifically the nymphal remains that have been found[120]
Adiphlebia Paoliida Anthracoptilidae
  • A. lacoana
A bizarre insect originally considered to have been one of the earliest beetles,[121] however more recent analyses suggest a placement as a sister taxa to the Dictyoptera[122]
Eucaenus Hypoperlida Eucaenidae
  • E. ovalis
A member of the Hypoperlida, a group of insects commonly thought to be a stem-group of the Paraneoptera[123]
Aenigmatodes Polyneoptera Hapalopteridae
Protodictyon Archaeorthoptera Cacurgidae
Spilomastax Archaeorthoptera Cacurgidae
Cacurgus Archaeorthoptera Cacurgidae
Heterologus Archaeorthoptera Cacurgidae
Anthrakoris Archaeorthoptera Omaliaidae
  • A. aetherius
The family was recently renamed in order to remove confusion with the similar sounding beetle subfamily Omaliinae[125]
Narkema Archaeorthoptera Cnemidolestidae
Dieconeura Archaeorthoptera Spanioderidae
  • D. arcuata
  • D. mazona[117]
Miamia Archaeorthoptera Spanioderidae
Lobeatta Archaeorthoptera Eoblattidae
Anegertus Archaeorthoptera Eoblattidae
Nectoptilus Archaeorthoptera Eoblattidae
Gerarus Archaeorthoptera Geraridae
  • G. constrictus
  • G. mazonus
  • G. danae
  • G. vetus
  • G. collaris
A very common taxon from the Carboniferous, and known for its elongated and inflated thorax[128]
Genentomum Archaeorthoptera Geraridae
Anepitedius Archaeorthoptera Geraridae
Progenentomum Archaeorthoptera Geraridae
Gerapompus Archaeorthoptera Gerapompidae
  • G. extensus
  • G. blattinoides[126]
Rasstriga Grylloblattodea Idelinellidae
Epideigma Grylloblattodea Epideigmatidae
  • E. elegans
A member of the Grylloblattodea, and a distant relative of modern ice crawlers[131]
Apithanus Protorthoptera Apithanidae
Anthracothremma Protorthoptera Anthracothremmidae
Melinophlebia Protorthoptera Anthracothremmidae
Pericalyphe Protorthoptera Anthracothremmidae
Silphion Protorthoptera Anthracothremmidae
Adeloneura Protorthoptera Adeloneuridae
Hadentomum Protorthoptera Hadentomidae
Heterologus Protorthoptera Hadentomidae
  • H. langfordorum
One of the largest protorthopterans from Mazon Creek, and described in 1944[133][132]
Herdina Protorthoptera Herdinidae
Cheliphlebia Protorthoptera Cheliphlebidae
  • C. elongata
  • C. carbonaria[132]
Metacheliphlebia Protorthoptera Incertae sedis
Geraroides Protorthoptera Incertae sedis
Schuchertiella Protorthoptera Incertae sedis

Cyclostomi

Members of Cyclostomi (hagfish and lampreys) are known from Mazon Creek.

Cyclostomi
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Mayomyzon Petromyzontida Mayomyzontidae
  • B. pieckoensis
One of the first discovered fossil lampreys, it differs from modern taxa by having fewer gill openings, more teeth, and larger eyes[135][136]
Pipiscius Petromyzontida Petromyzontiformes
  • P. zangerli
Another lamprey, often nicknamed "Push me-Pull you" in reference to each end being very similar in shape, may represent a synonym of Mayomyzon[137]
Gilpichthys Myxini Myxiniformes
  • G. greenei
A basal hagfish, was considered enigmatic until a placement within the myxini was accepted[137]
Myxinikela Myxini Myxiniformes
  • M. siroka
One of the oldest known hagfish, which shares several features with modern taxa (including large velar cavity and a cardinal heart)[138]

Chondrichthyes

A number of chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish) are known from Mazon Creek, including a number of elasmobranchs and holocephalans.

Chondrichthyes
Genus Class Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Bandringa Chondrichthyes Elasmobranchii (placement uncertain)
  • B. rayi
A bizarre elasmobranch that possessed a hyper-elongated upper jaw. Juvenile specimens are known from Mazon Creek, and adults are known from parts of Pennsylvania and Ohio, suggesting the area of Mazon Creek was a mating ground for these fish[139][140]
Dabasacanthus Chondrichthyes Elasmobranchii
  • D. inskasi
A close relative of modern sharks, and a member of the Lonchidiidae family within the hybodontiformes order
Holmacanthus Chondrichthyes Elasmobranchii
  • H. keithi
Tiny hybodontiform
Orthacanthus Chondrichthyes Xenacanthida
  • O. sp.
A large xenacanthid fish, the species from Mazon Creek is unnamed
Jimpohlia Chondrichthyes Holocephali
  • J. erinacea
A bizarre, tadpole-like holocephalian
Polysentor Chondrichthyes Holocephali
  • P. gorbairdi
A chimaera-like holocephalian fish, and is one of the various holocephalians known from Mazon Creek
Similhariotta Chondrichthyes Holocephali
  • S. dabasinskai
A small sized chimaeriform fish that possessed an elongated upper jaw, however a paper published by Grogan & Lund, 2008 suggests it may represent a specimen of the already known Bandringa[141]

Acanthodii

Some members of the acanthodii are known from Mazon Creek.[5]

Acanthodians
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Acanthodes Acanthodii Acanthodiformes
  • A. beecheri
  • A. marshi
  • A. sp.
While genus Acanthodes is widespread, from Mazon Creek juvenile specimens that were named as "Acanthodes beecheri" are known, although this species is dubious.
Trichorhipis Acanthodii Incertae sedis
  • T. praecursor
An acanthodian only known from a pectoral fin impression, once classified as a gyracanthid, now considered an enigmatic taxon.[142]

Actinopterygii

A large number of early actinopterygians are known from Mazon Creek, notably the Palaeonisciformes.[5]

Actinopterygii
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
"Elonichthys" Actinopterygii Elonichthyiformes
  • E. peltigerus
  • E. hypsilepus
  • E. disjunctus
  • E. wolffi
  • E. remotus
"E. peltigerus" and various other species known, none actually belong to the genus Elonichthys, but they haven't been reassigned yet.[143][2][144]
Illiniichthys Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes
  • I. cozarti
Mainly differentiated by scale morphology[2]
Nozamichthys Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes
  • N. contorta
Relatively similar to Illiniichthys[2]
Haplolepis Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes
Microhaplolepis Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes
  • M. sp.
Parahaplolepis Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes
  • P. sp.
Palaeoniscoid. sp. Actinopterygii Palaeonisciformes Various undescribed palaeoniscoids
Amphicentrum Actinopterygii Eurynotiformes
  • A. orbiculare
a member of the basal Eurynotiformes order of ray finned fish
Pyritocephalus Actinopterygii Haplolepiformes
  • P. comptus
  • P. gracilis
One of the youngest known members of the Haplolepiformes order
Platysomus Actinopterygii Platysomiformes
  • P. circularis
A long lasting genus, some species most likley belong to other genera

Non-Tetrapod Sarcopterygii

Several groups of non-tetrapod sarcopterygians, including basal coelacanths and lungfish are known from the site.[5]

Sarcopterygii
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Megalichthys Sarcopterygii Megalichthyiformes
  • M. cf. hibberti
Also known from the Catskill Formation
Rhizodopsis Sarcopterygii Megalichthyiformes
  • R. cf. robustus
  • ?R. mazonius
Rhabdoderma Sarcopterygii Coelacanthiformes
  • R. exiguum
  • R. robustus
  • R. elegans
A widespread and long lasting early coelacanth
Conchopoma Sarcopterygii Dipnoi
  • C. edesi
  • C. arctatum
Also known from Permian aged deposits
Ctenodus Sarcopterygii Dipnoi
  • C. cristatus
a widespread Carboniferous lungfish
Megapleuron Sarcopterygii Dipnoi
  • M. zangerli
Also known from Permian aged deposits from France
Palaeophichthys Sarcopterygii Dipnoi
  • P. parvulus
Another basal lungfish

Tetrapods

Many exceptionally well-preserved tetrapods are known from Mazon Creek, mostly temnospondyls and assorted "microsaurs"

Tetrapoda
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Cephalerpeton Sauropsida Protorothyrididae
  • C. ventriarmatum
Originally described as a microsaur, but redescribed as a protorothyridid, which is the current consensus[145]
Isodectes[146] Dvinosauria Eobrachyopidae
  • I. obtusus
A dvinosaurian temnospondyl, and a senior synonym of Saurerpeton
Amphibamus Dissorophoidea Amphibamidae
  • A. grandiceps
A modest sized temnospondyl, whose superfamily is commonly regarded as ancestral to crown-group amphibians[147]
Branchiosaurus Temnospondyli Branchiosauridae
  • B. sp.
Fossil specimens from Mazon Creek have been questionably referred to this taxon
Spondylerpeton Embolomeri Archeriidae
  • S. spinatum
A member of the embolomeri, and one of the largest animals from Mazon Creek, reaching a little over a meter long[148]
Ctenerpeton Nectridea Urocordylidae
  • C. remex
Known from Mazon Creek via a group of caudal vertebrae described in 2025[149]
Ptyonius Nectridea Urocordylidae
  • P. marshii
Another member of the Urocordylidae[150]
Diabloroter Recumbirostra Brachystelechidae
  • D. bolti
Likely algivorous alongside other derived brachystelechids[151]
Brachydectes Recumbirostra Molgophidae
  • B. newberryi
Like with other lysorophians, this animal possessed a long snake-like body and a relatively small skull[152]
Infernovenator Recumbirostra Molgophidae
  • I. steeni
Has a somewhat less derived skull than other lysorophians[153]
Nagini Recumbirostra Molgophidae
  • N. mazonense
First lysorophian with hindlimbs but not forelimbs, suggesting a limb loss pattern similar to snakes[154]
Joermungandr Recumbirostra Odonterpetidae
  • J. bolti
Known from a complete specimen with large amounts of scale impressions[155]
Phlegethontia Aistopoda Phlegethontiidae
  • P. longissima
A snake-like tetrapod belonging to the Aistopoda[156]
Pseudophlegethontia Aistopoda Pseudophlegethontiidae
  • P. turnbullorum
Intermediate between the two main aistopod clades[157]
Oestocephalus Aistopoda Oestocephalidae
  • O. amphiuminus
The type species is known from Mazon Creek, but other specimens are known from the Czech Republic and Ohio[158]

Miscellaneous Taxa

This section documents faunal taxa whose taxonomic affinities are not fully understood, or do not fit into any of the above groups.

Miscellaneous Taxa
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Tullimonstrum Incertae sedis Incertae sedis
  • T. gregarium
Perhaps the most well known, and infamous species from the site, recent research suggests a placement as either a non-vertebrate chordate, or a protostome of uncertain placement.[159]
Pohlsepia Incertae sedis Incertae sedis
  • P. mazonensis
Originally considered to be the oldest known octopus, specifically within the Cirroctopoda, however recent research has questioned this placement, and may possibly represent a cnidarian of uncertain placement.[160][161]
Lascoa Incertae sedis Incertae sedis
  • L. mesostaurata
Originally considered as a true jellyfish within the Semaeostomeae, possessing frilly arms, but affinity is questioned.[7]
Escumasia Incertae sedis Incertae sedis
  • E. roryi
Often nickanmed the 'Y-animal', this problematic organism has been compared to cnidarians, but no concrete placement has been given.[162]
Etacystis Hemichordata? Pterobranchia?
  • E. communis
Also known as the 'H-animal', this colonial invertebrate is normally compared to hemichordates, but also hydrozoans[4]
Esconichthys Chordata Incertae sedis
  • E. apopyris
An enigmatic jawed vertebrate, often nicknamed 'blade', most often identified by its prominent eyes
Archisymplectes Nemertea Palaeonemertea
  • A. rhothon
A featureless worm belonging to the Nemertea (ribbon worms).
Priapulites Priapulida Priapulimorphida
  • P. konecniorum
One of the earliest known crown-group priapulid worms, and a close relative of the Priapulidae[163]
Mazoglossus Enteropneusta Spengelidae
  • M. ramsdelli
One of the oldest known definitive acorn worms in the fossil record, and a member of the extant family Spengelidae[164]
Paucijaculum Chaetognatha Incertae sedis
  • P. samamithion
A member of the Chaetognatha (arrow worms), and shares much in common with modern taxa
Microconchida. sp Lophophorata Tentaculita
  • Various species
Originally considered a member of the Sabellida, but was later discovered all pre-Bathonian sabellids were instead microconchids[165]

Ichnotaxa

This section covers various ichnotaxa, or trace fossils, traces in the fossil record left behind by living organisms.

Ichnotaxa
Genus Group Higher taxon Species Notes Images
Fayolia Xenacanthiformes Xenacanthidae
  • F. sp.
A wide ranging ichnotaxon of chondrichthyan egg capsules, most likely produced by xenacanthids[166]
Palaeoxyris Hybodontiformes Incertae sedis
  • P. appendiculatum
  • P. lewisi
  • P. prendelli
Another wide ranging ichnotaxon of egg capsules, except these fossils were produced by various hybodonts[166]
Vetacapsula Holocephali Incertae sedis
  • V. cooperi
Another ichnotaxon of chondrichthyan egg capsules and was previously unknown from North America until specimens were uncovered from the Field Museum in the 1980s,[167] and tentatively assigned to the Holocephali[168]
Mazonova Chordata Incertae sedis
  • M. helmichnus
Another ichnotaxon of eggs, that are typically incased in a gelatinous sheath, however the taxonomy of these fossils is quite problematic, with suggestions of the egg layers being various fish and tetrapods[169]
Diplocraterion Annelida Various groups
  • D. sp.
A wide ranging ichnotaxon of u-shaped burrows that are commonly found throughout the fossil record, and are presumably made by various polychaete worms (at least the marine examples)[170]
Rusophycus Arthropoda Various groups
  • R. sp.
A wide ranging ichnotaxon usually identified as the resting trace of an arthropod, most often associated with trilobites, but is also produced by other groups[171]

Further reading

  • Wittry, Jack 2012, "The Mazon Creek Fossil Fauna", Chicago, ESCONI Associates, 202 pp. ISBN 9780578111483
  • Bailey, J.B., 2011, Paleobiology, paleoecology, and systematics of Solemyidae (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Protobranchia) from the Mazon Creek Lagerstätte, Pennsylvanian of Illinois: Bulletins of American Paleontology, v. 382, 72 p. ISBN 9780877104964

References

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  2. ^ a b c d Schultze, Hans-Peter; Bardack, David (1987). "Diversity and Size Changes in Palaeonisciform Fishes (Actinopterygii, Pisces) from the Pennsylvanian Mazon Creek Fauna, Illinois, U.S.A." (PDF). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. 7 (1): 1–23. Bibcode:1987JVPal...7....1S. doi:10.1080/02724634.1987.10011635. JSTOR 4523118.
  3. ^ Joanne Klussendorf (March 30, 1995), National Historic Landmark Nomination: Mazon Creek Fossil Beds (pdf), National Park Service. Accompanying photos, from 1912 and 1991. (497 KB)
  4. ^ a b Nitecki, Matthew H.; Schram, Frederick R. (1976). "Etacystis communis, a Fossil of Uncertain Affinities from the Mazon Creek Fauna (Pennsylvanian of Illinois)". Journal of Paleontology. 50 (6): 1157–1161. JSTOR 1303556.
  5. ^ a b c d e f Clements, Thomas; Purnell, Mark; Gabbott, Sarah (2018-10-04). "The Mazon Creek Lagerstätte: a diverse late Paleozoic ecosystem entombed within siderite concretions". Journal of the Geological Society. 176 (1): 1–11. doi:10.1144/jgs2018-088. hdl:2381/44761. ISSN 0016-7649.
  6. ^ a b JOHNSON, RALPH GORDON; RICHARDSON Jr., EUGENE S. "PENNSYLVANIAN INVERTEBRATES OF THE MAZON CREEK AREA, ILLINOIS" (PDF). Archive.org. FIELD MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY. Retrieved 13 February 2023.
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  12. ^ Parry, Luke A.; Wilson, Paul; Sykes, Dan; Edgecombe, Gregory D.; Vinther, Jakob (2015-11-17). "A new fireworm (Amphinomidae) from the Cretaceous of Lebanon identified from three-dimensionally preserved myoanatomy". BMC Evolutionary Biology. 15 (1): 256. Bibcode:2015BMCEE..15..256P. doi:10.1186/s12862-015-0541-8. ISSN 1471-2148. PMC 4650273. PMID 26577802.
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  21. ^ a b Fossil of the month: Anthraconaia
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  24. ^ Aviculopecten at Fossilworks.org
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