Description This listing features a genuine fossil snake vertebra from the extinct marine snake species Palaeophis maghrebians, discovered in Eocene deposits of Morocco. This intriguing specimen represents a member of one of the largest snake genera known from the Paleogene, with marine adaptations akin to those of modern sea snakes. Fossil Type & Species: Type: Vertebra (Axial skeleton) Genus: Palaeophis Species: maghrebians A marine-adapted snake with vertebrae optimized for lateral undulatory swimming in aquatic environments Geological Context: Era: Cenozoic Period: Paleogene Epoch: Eocene (~56 to 33.9 million years ago) Depositional Environment: Shallow marine and coastal settings indicating warm tropical conditions conducive to reptilian gigantism Morphological Features: Elongated, laterally compressed vertebra with a high neural spine Well-preserved centrum and articulation facets Indicative of a powerful, sinuous swimming motion used by aquatic snakes Scientific Importance: Palaeophis is part of the extinct family Palaeophiidae, known for some of the earliest fully aquatic snakes These fossils help trace the evolutionary history and ecological diversity of early marine reptiles Taxonomic Classification: Order: Squamata Superfamily: Palaeophioidea Family: Palaeophiidae Locality Information: Morocco – Eocene marine sediments rich in vertebrate fossils, including early whales, rays, and reptiles like Palaeophis Authenticity & Display: All of our fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The specimen pictured is the exact one you will receive. Please refer to the photograph for full sizing details — the scale cube = 1cm. This rare Palaeophis maghrebians fossil vertebra is an extraordinary addition to any collection focused on fossil reptiles, marine evolution, or Eocene paleontology.
