Data from: Evolutionary implications of a new transitional blastozoan echinoderm from the mid Cambrian of Czech Republic

The primitive blastozoan Felbabkacystis luckae n. gen. n. sp. is described
from the Drumian Jince Formation, Barrandian area (Czech Republic) based
on eleven fairly well-preserved specimens. Its unique body plan
organization is composed of a relatively long stalk-like imbricate
structure directly connected to the aboral imbricate cup of the test and
of an adoral vaulted tessellate test supporting the ambulacral and
brachiolar systems. Its bipartite test, called prototheca, highlights the
evolution of the body wall among blastozoans. Felbabkacystis n. gen. shows
the combination of plesiomorphic (imbricate stalk-like appendage) and
derived features (highly domed peristome, elongate epispires). The new
genus is interpreted as a transitional form between calyx-bearing and
theca-bearing blastozoans, and is attributed to the new Family
Felbabkacystidae. The lithology, the associated fauna and the possession
of a long stalk suggest that Felbabkacystis was probably a low-level
suspension feeder in relatively deep settings.