3D model of a Nummulite Limestone (NHMW-GEO-1926/0002/1193)

<p>3D scan of a fossil nummulite limestone found in Istria, Croatia. Nummulites belong to the group of large foraminifera, which are single-celled protists. This particular group of foraminifera can reach sizes of several centimeters because they live in symbiosis with microalgae.</p><p>For more information about large foraminifera watch this video (in German), where the expert Anna Weinmann talks about these organisms.</p><p>In the Eocene (approx. 50 million years before today) the condition in
the Tethys Ocean were excellent for large foraminifera. The water
temperatures were very warm and there were many calm, nutrient-poor,
shallow water areas.&nbsp;The nummulites were so common back in the Eocene, that they were
rock-forming. In this limestone block you can still see the individual
shells with their internal structure very well.&nbsp;</p><p>The species fossilized in this limestone is <em>Nummulites lucasana</em>. Find the entry in the World Foraminifera Database here.</p>