Sensational fossil find at Slemmestad, Norway

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In summary, a 3000 square meters area filled with fossils from the ordovicium era was uncovered at Slemmestad due to a fortuitous accident. This area was discovered while local soccer enthusiasts were clearing a hillside to build a seating area. The fossils, including thousands of trilobites, graptolites, brachiopodes, and other species, were found in the surface layer. The discovery is considered sensational due to the large size and high density of fossils, which is rare in Norway and internationally. The site has yet to be explored in depth by paleontologists, but several new species have already been found. This find may also impact the local soccer fans' plans, as the site could
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arildno
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By a fortuitous accident, a 3000 square meters area brimful of fossils from the ordovicium era has been uncovered at Slemmestad.

The local soccer enthusiasts had been given permission to clear a hillside of trees and heather in order to build a seating area for the public (is that called a "tribune" in English??)

Once they had done so, a magnificent orthocer chalk area had been uncovered, with thousands of trilobites, graptolites, brachiopodes and other fossils being visible in the surface layer.

Here is a couple of photographs:
http://geoaktuelt.no/geoaktuelt/undervisning/undervisni/sensasjone/
 
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  • #2
What a great find. I wonder if they will explore it in depth.
 
  • #3
It is too early to tell. Our paleontologists are a bit stunned at this find, and have yet to develop visions for what to do with the site.
 
  • #4
nice ammonite - why is this a "sensational" find, I cannot read the text?
 
  • #5
mack_10 said:
nice ammonite - why is this a "sensational" find, I cannot read the text?
The sensationality is primarily connected to the size of the field, and the high density of fossils contained there.

Such a big&rich field is completely unique in Norway, and rare internationally.

Besides, on the local national level, several species have already been found that have not been previously in Norway's fossil record.
 
  • #6
Bad news for a local soccer fans. Do they have plan B? If plan A meant ammonites, execution of plan B may mean fossilized brontosaurus.
 

1. What is the significance of the "sensational fossil find" in Slemmestad, Norway?

The sensational fossil find in Slemmestad, Norway is significant because it provides new insights into the Earth's ancient past. Fossils found in this location can help scientists better understand the evolution of life on our planet.

2. What types of fossils were discovered in Slemmestad, Norway?

The fossil find in Slemmestad, Norway includes a variety of marine animals such as fish, reptiles, and invertebrates. There have also been some plant fossils found in the area.

3. How old are the fossils found in Slemmestad, Norway?

The fossils found in Slemmestad, Norway are estimated to be around 200 million years old. This time period is known as the Triassic period and is considered a crucial time in the evolution of life on Earth.

4. What makes Slemmestad, Norway a prime location for fossil discoveries?

Slemmestad, Norway is a prime location for fossil discoveries because it was once covered by a shallow sea during the Triassic period. This environment allowed for the preservation of marine animals and plants, leading to a high concentration of fossils in the area.

5. What can we learn from the fossils found in Slemmestad, Norway?

The fossils found in Slemmestad, Norway can provide valuable information about the Earth's ancient climate, the evolution of different species, and the biodiversity of the Triassic period. They can also help us understand how past environmental changes have impacted life on our planet.

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