Description
Torynomma quadrata (Square Crustacean Crab) is an extinct marine arthropod from Australia’s Cretaceous inland seas. This species is dated to approximately 95–104 million years ago (Cretaceous) and is known from the Allaru Formation at Currane Station, Ilfracombe, Central West Queensland. The specimen represents a benthic crustacean that lived on or near the sea floor within the warm shallow waters of the Eromanga Sea system.
Originally described in 1953 by Jack Tunstall Woods from fossil material collected near Dartmouth, Torynomma quadrata is one of several Australian Cretaceous crab species. It is most commonly found preserved within limestone concretions, which often produce exceptional three-dimensional preservation not typically seen in fossil crustaceans. The species name quadrata refers to the square-like shape of the carapace.
Torynomma quadrata shows strong morphological similarities to modern deepwater crabs in the family Homolodromiidae, suggesting possible evolutionary or ecological relationships with this group. Its relatively conserved body plan provides insight into the early diversification of brachyuran crabs during the Cretaceous period.
Each specimen is carefully prepared and represents a unique fossil with natural variation in preservation and completeness.
Key features
• Authentic fossil specimen
• Taxon: Torynomma quadrata (Crab, Arthropoda, Crustacea)
• Age: 95–104 million years (Cretaceous)
• Origin: Allaru Formation, Eromanga Sea system, Queensland, Australia
• Museum-prepared specimen
• Natural variation in preservation
Note
As a natural fossil, variations in colour, texture and completeness are expected and add to the uniqueness of each specimen. All fossils sold by the Museum are common and widely represented and are not of scientific research value.
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