Associated conchs and opercula of 'Triplicatella disdoma' (Hyolitha) from the early Cambrian of South Australia

Abstract

Internal moulds of complete shells, including conch and associated opercula, of the hyolith 'Triplicatella disdoma' from Cambrian Series 2, Stages 3-4 of South Australia are described. The conch of 'T. disdoma' is shown to be narrow and cone-shaped, and with a rounded triangular cross-section. The conch shows a gentle dorsal curvature in lateral view. The fossils lack evidence of helens, and the operculum was smaller than the apertural diameter of the conch and could be withdrawn a short distance into the conch. 'Triplicatella' was probably closely related to orthothecid hyoliths.