Posidonia Shale

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Posidonia Shale

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Posidonia Shale, Jurassic geological formation in Holzmaden, Germany

The Posidonia Shale spans across southwestern Germany, containing black shale layers with bituminous limestone deposits formed 183 million years ago in the Tethys Ocean.

Initial documentation of fossils from the formation dates to 1598 when Johannes Bauhin recorded the first specimens, leading to centuries of paleontological research.

The Urweltmuseum Hauff in Holzmaden presents an extensive collection of marine fossils from the formation, including complete ichthyosaur and plesiosaur specimens.

The formation extends between 1 and 40 meters in thickness, with the main quarry at Holzmaden measuring between 5 and 14 meters deep.

Fossils reveal marine reptiles giving birth, with Stenopterygius specimens containing preserved embryos that demonstrate ancient reproductive behaviors.

Part of: Altena Group

GPS coordinates: 48.57667,9.51833

Latest update: March 2, 2025 23:11

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