Image of Flemingostrea wollastoni (Finlay 1927)

Description:

Massive fossil oyster, originally identified for me by Cawthron in the 1960's. Name has possibly now become obselete. Shell thickness of over 20mm may have developed as protection against predators with powerful jaws. Being laminated in layers making it incredibly resistant to attack. The clearly visible hinge is quite worn suggesting the shell may have suffered 'beach wear' before becoming cemented into the substrate.