Fossil Snake Vertebrae PALAEOPHIS TOLIAPICUS Eocene Virginia USA Authentic Marine Reptile Specimen

Description This listing features an authentic fossil snake vertebra (or set of vertebrae) from the extinct marine snake Palaeophis toliapicus, discovered in Eocene deposits in Virginia, USA. This well-preserved specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, and is presented as seen in the photo of the actual fossil you will receive. Palaeophis toliapicus belonged to the family Palaeophiidae, a group of extinct marine snakes from the Eocene Epoch (~56 to 34 million years ago). These large serpentine reptiles inhabited warm, shallow coastal and deltaic environments in what are now parts of Europe and North America. Fossils of Palaeophis from the United States, including those from Virginia, are typically found in sediments associated with the early to middle Eocene, deposited in nearshore marine and estuarine environments. These environments supported a rich marine ecosystem of early whales, crocodilians, fish, and turtles. Morphological Features: Elongated, compressed vertebrae structure Distinct neural canal and arch articulations Lateral foramina for vascular passage Often slightly flattened for hydrodynamic efficiency These features suggest Palaeophis was a fast-swimming, fully aquatic predator, likely feeding on fish and other marine vertebrates. The specimen has been carefully selected and documented. Each cube or square in the scale rule = 1cm. Please see the photograph for complete sizing and details. Specimen Details: Species: Palaeophis toliapicus Fossil Type: Snake Vertebra(e) (Reptile Bone) Age: Early–Middle Eocene (~56–40 million years ago) Location: Virginia, USA Depositional Environment: Coastal marine / estuarine Order: Squamata Family: Palaeophiidae This fossil offers a rare chance to own a part of prehistoric marine life from the Paleogene of North America. It is ideal for collectors, educators, and those interested in the evolution of reptiles and marine ecosystems. All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.