Scytalocrinus validus Wachsmuth & Springer, 1897

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CMNH 2509 is a specimen of Scytalocrinus validus Wachsmuth and Springer, identified in 1897 as part of the Early Mississippian period, specifically within the Osagean (Visean) age. The fossil comes from the Edwardsville Formation of the Borden Group in Crawfordsville, Montgomery County, Indiana. Measuring 36 cm long, this crinoid specimen offers valuable insights into the ancient marine ecosystem. Crinoids, often mistakenly called "sea lilies," are actually living marine animals that filter feed and anchor themselves to underwater surfaces using holdfasts at their column's distal end. Their cup or calyx serves as a base from which extend their arms, designed to capture small food particles and draw them into their mouths. The distinctive flower-like appearance of these organisms belies their true nature - they are indeed animals, not plants, as stated by William Ausich in his 1996 publication on the Phylum Echinodermata.