turtles
of the Kem Kem Beds
Turtles from the Kem Kem beds of Morocco represent an intriguing aspect of the Late Cretaceous fauna. These fossil-rich deposits, dating back to the Cenomanian stage, have yielded a variety of turtle remains, showcasing the biodiversity of the time. The turtles found here are part of a diverse assemblage that includes both freshwater and possibly brackish water species. Among these, the family Bothremydidae is particularly notable, with taxa like Dirqadim schaefferi indicating a presence of side-necked turtles or pleurodires. The fossils primarily consist of isolated elements like shell fragments, which provide insights into the morphology and adaptations of these ancient turtles.
The Kem Kem turtles are significant for understanding the ecological roles these reptiles played in an ecosystem dominated by large predatory dinosaurs like Spinosaurus and Carcharodontosaurus. Their presence in the fossil record alongside fish, crocodyliforms, and pterosaurs implies a complex aquatic and semi-aquatic environment where turtles could have been both predators and prey. Evidence such as swim traces indicates that some turtles ventured into deeper waters or swam in areas where their tracks could be preserved. The study of these turtles from the Kem Kem beds helps reconstruct not only their physical characteristics but also sheds light on the interactions within this Cretaceous community, highlighting the adaptability of turtles to various ecological niches in the prehistoric landscape of North Africa.
Did you know?
Turtle shells are incredibly durable. Their bony structures can withstand the pressures of fossilization, making them one of the most common vertebrate fossils found in many geological formations. This durability has allowed scientists to study the evolution of turtles over millions of years.