dorbignyi

Dorbignyi is a genus of fossil bivalve mollusks belonging to the family Veneridae. These marine clams lived during the Neogene period, with their fossilized remains found in various geological formations. The genus was first described by Alcide d'Orbigny, a prominent French naturalist and paleontologist, whose work significantly contributed to the understanding of fossil organisms.

Fossils attributed to Dorbignyi are characterized by their distinct shell morphology, typically featuring a rounded or ovate shape with prominent concentric growth lines. The internal structure of the shell and the hinge apparatus are important features used for taxonomic classification within the Veneridae family. The geographical distribution of Dorbignyi fossils suggests that these clams inhabited shallow to moderately deep marine environments.

The geological age of Dorbignyi fossils places them primarily within the Miocene and Pliocene epochs. Their presence in sediment layers helps paleontologists reconstruct past marine ecosystems and understand the evolutionary history of bivalves. Like other venerid clams, Dorbignyi likely played a role in the benthic community, filtering food particles from the water column. The study of Dorbignyi contributes to our broader knowledge of Neogene marine paleontology and the biodiversity of ancient oceans.