Fossil Algae Stromatolite – Cretaceous Microbial Mat from Bolivia – Authentic Stromatolite Fossil with Certificate – Cyanobacteria Rock

Description

This listing features a genuine fossil stromatolite specimen from the Cretaceous Period, found in Bolivia. Stromatolites are layered sedimentary structures formed by the growth of cyanobacteria and other microorganisms. These microbial mats thrived in shallow marine environments, trapping and binding sedimentary grains to create distinctive banded formations over millions of years.

Cyanobacteria—the organisms responsible for creating stromatolites—are among the oldest known lifeforms on Earth. They played a crucial role in early Earth’s oxygenation by producing oxygen through photosynthesis, paving the way for complex life to evolve. Stromatolites thus represent a fascinating intersection of biology and geology, capturing the behaviour and ecology of the earliest life.

Stromatolites continue to be of great interest to scientists and collectors due to their biological importance and attractive, layered appearance. Specimens from Bolivia are especially desirable due to their preservation and visibility of fine lamination patterns.

Item Details:

• Specimen: Fossil Algae – Stromatolite Microbial Mat
• Age: Cretaceous (~145 to 66 million years ago)
• Location: Bolivia
• Formation Process: Cyanobacteria and microbial biofilms in shallow water
• Scientific Significance: Early life structure, oxygen producers
• Scale Reference: Scale cube = 1cm. See photo for full sizing
• Certificate of Authenticity: Included with every purchase
• Actual Specimen: The photo shows the exact item you will receive

These specimens are perfect for fossil collectors, science educators, and those interested in the origins of life on Earth. Their beauty lies in both their natural geometry and their historical importance.

ACTUAL AS SEEN: The specimen shown is the exact one you will receive. Each piece has been carefully hand-selected and photographed. While we strive for accurate size and colour depiction, variations may occur depending on lighting, display devices, and the irregular shape of fossil items. Once sold, the listing image will update to a new specimen.

Please Note:

1. Some specimens may be propped for photography.
2. We recommend saving or screenshotting the image and measurements at time of purchase for future reference.

100% Genuine Fossil – Professionally Selected – Certificate of Authenticity Included