Nummulites in matrix, middle eocene, HUN
In spite of actually being unicellular animals, Nummulites (diminutive form of Latin nummulus, "little coin") produced comparatively large fossils. By adding more and more chambers to their calcareous shells, they could leave behind fossils up to 10 cm in size. The animal itself sat in the anterior chambers and stretched out pseudopodia to feed on other small creatures.
The last picture shows the reverse side. Further nummulites can be seen there.
Age: Middle Eocene, Lutetian;
Locality: Magyarpolány, Ajka county, Bakony forest/mountains, Hungary
Size of several nummulites: up to 4 cm each; matrix: 7 x 5 x 2 cm
Due to technical reasons, colors on photos may differ slightly from those of the original specimen.
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