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These are a diverse group of organisms with fossil records that reach as far back as the early Cambrian. Today, sea urchins (echinoids), starfish (asteroids) and sea cucumbers (holothurians) are most commonly seen. Sea lilies (crinoids) are less frequently seen but were very important during the Paleozoic era.
Our collections include
echinoderms from the Cambrian period to the Recent. Of particular importance are the early Paleozoic specimens collected from the western USA and studied by James Sprinkle and his graduate students. Many of these specimens are new species and are located in the type collection.
Another strength lies in Tertiary
echinoids from the Gulf region. Many specimens were collected in the earliest explorations of the state and form part of the Rio Bravo Collection.
Want to learn more about local echinoids?
Museum to see the starfish
Learn more about echinoderms