Dinosaur Gastrolith Gut Stone - Authentic Morrison Formation Fossil Specimen - Large

A Large Dinosaur Gastrolith Fossil You Can Hold in Your Hand

This dinosaur gastrolith fossil is a real gut stone from the Jurassic Morrison Formation of Colorado. The large size measures 2 to 4 in (5 to 10 cm).

Product Details

• SKU: 80-112-0022-201-36
• Size: Large, 2 to 4 in (5 to 10 cm)
• Origin: Morrison Formation, Colorado, a Morrison Formation gastrolith
• Age: Jurassic Period
• Shipping: Sturdy carton with information card, no riker box
• Includes: Certificate of authenticity

Stones Swallowed on Purpose

Gastroliths are stones that an animal swallowed. They are also called gut stones or gizzard stones. Many are linked to sauropods, as well as some theropods and ornithischians.

A large gut stone fossil like this one is smooth and rounded. Sauropod gastroliths are described as having polished surfaces.

What Were They For?

In birds, swallowed stones help grind food in the gizzard. For dinosaurs the answer is less certain. Sauropods carried few stones for their size, so how they were used is still debated.

Whatever the purpose, a gut stone fossil is a rare record of dinosaur behavior. See more in our Prehistoric Collection and Authentic Fossil Specimens.

Display and Care

Display the large dinosaur gastrolith on a shelf or desk. This dinosaur gastrolith fossil is heavy, so place it on a stable surface.

About the Morrison Formation

The Morrison Formation is a Late Jurassic rock unit across much of the western United States. It is famous for sauropod fossils. This dinosaur gastrolith fossil comes from its Colorado outcrops, a true Morrison Formation gastrolith.

For More Reading from the Web

• Learn what gastroliths are, which animals swallowed stones and why paleontologists still debate their use. Stomach Stones - Western Australian Museum
• Read the supplier's page on this specimen. Dinosaur Gastrolith Gut Stone - Mini Museum