Graptoloidea

/ˌɡræptəˈlɔɪdiə/ noun

Definition

A subclass of graptolites, specifically the more advanced forms that lived during the Paleozoic era.

Etymology

From graptolite + -oidea suffix; refers to a specific division within the graptolite group based on evolutionary features.

Kelly Says

Graptoloideans were the 'success story' of the graptolite world—they dominated oceans for over 100 million years before mysteriously vanishing, and their abundance makes them invaluable for dating rocks.

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