NEREITES Meaning and
Definition
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Nereites is a term used in paleontology to refer to a specific type of fossil organism, namely, a trace fossil known as a "trace of Nereites" or simply as "Nereites." Nereites is a distinctive trace fossil that appears as a complex network of horizontal, sinuous, and branching burrows preserved in sedimentary rocks.
These fossilized burrows are typically attributed to marine organisms that inhabited soft sediments, such as sand or mud, during ancient geological periods. The exact identity of the organism responsible for the formation of Nereites is often uncertain, as the trace fossil itself provides limited direct clues about the organism's morphology or characteristics. However, Nereites fossils are commonly associated with annelid worms, such as polychaetes, that thrived in marine environments.
The presence of Nereites in a rock unit can be indicative of certain environmental conditions, such as shallow marine or intertidal zones, where marine organisms were actively burrowing and seeking food or shelter. The complex and interconnected nature of Nereites burrows suggests an active and organized burrowing behavior by the organisms that created them.
In summary, Nereites is a trace fossil representing a network of burrows preserved in sedimentary rocks, often associated with annelid worms. It provides valuable information about the ancient environmental conditions and the presence of marine organisms that inhabited soft sedimentary substrates.
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Fossil tracks of marine worms, occurring in Silurian and other strata; a living family of sea-worms.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NEREITES
Etymology of NEREITES
The word "Nereites" has its roots in Greek mythology. It is derived from the Greek word "Nereis", which refers to a sea nymph or a daughter of Nereus, the ancient Greek sea god. The Nereides were a group of fifty sea nymphs who were often depicted as beautiful maidens associated with various aspects of the sea. Their name, Nereides, comes from the Greek word "νηρός" (neros), meaning "water" or "sea". The suffix "-ites" is commonly used to refer to a group of people or entities associated with a particular place or concept. So, "Nereites" would mean "those belonging to or associated with the Nereids" or "followers of the Nereids".
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