Asset Details
Do you wish to reserve the book?
Determining whether a phosphatic concretion containing a Cretaceous juvenile crocodylian is a coprolite or a non-fecal concretion
Hey, we have placed the reservation for you!
By the way, why not check out events that you can attend while you pick your title.
Oops! Something went wrong.
Looks like we were not able to place the reservation. Kindly try again later.
Are you sure you want to remove the book from the shelf?
Determining whether a phosphatic concretion containing a Cretaceous juvenile crocodylian is a coprolite or a non-fecal concretion
Do you wish to request the book?
Determining whether a phosphatic concretion containing a Cretaceous juvenile crocodylian is a coprolite or a non-fecal concretion
Please be aware that the book you have requested cannot be checked out. If you would like to checkout this book, you can reserve another copy
We have requested the book for you!
Your request is successful and it will be processed during the Library working hours. Please check the status of your request in My Requests.
Oops! Something went wrong.
Looks like we were not able to place your request. Kindly try again later.
Journal Article
Determining whether a phosphatic concretion containing a Cretaceous juvenile crocodylian is a coprolite or a non-fecal concretion
2025
Overview
Phosphatic concretions in terrestrial settings are often identified as coprolites based upon their biotic contents and high phosphorus levels. However, recent discoveries have shown that non-fecal origins of fossiliferous phosphatic concretions are more common than originally recognized. Confusion about the taphonomic origin of phosphatic concretions can lead to erroneous paleobiological and paleoenvironmental interpretations, so a set of criteria would be useful to evaluate whether a phosphatic concretion is a coprolite. Here we describe a phosphatic concretion containing a small crocodylian from the Upper Cretaceous Hell Creek Formation and assess its origin, formation, and paleobiological implications. We conducted neutron computed tomography (CT) on the skull-bearing portion of the concretion, and analyzed the geochemical composition of the concretion with electron microprobe, µ-XRF, and fusion ICP-OES. In this study, the completeness and distribution of the skeletal elements present a stronger case for a non-fecal origin. This scenario suggests minimal transport after death and deposition. Neutron CT analysis of the crocodylian skull supports its referral to
Brachychampsa montana
, and allows inferences regarding body length, age, and dietary habits. Although coprolites and non-fecal concretions can be difficult to differentiate, unique features can reflect differences in origin that offer different types of taphonomic and paleobiological information.
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group UK,Nature Publishing Group,Nature Portfolio
Subject
