Fossil Lophophorates: Generalities and Applications in the Interpretation of Paleoenvironments

Basic information on the morphology, phylogeny, and temporal distribution of the different recognized groups of lophophorates, including phoronids, bryozoans, and brachiopods, is presented. Hederelloids and tentaculitoids, groups of uncertain affinity but which have been related to lophophorates, are also described and discussed in this chapter. Some of the morphological characteristics of these groups are explored, especially those of importance in paleoenvironmental interpretations such as adaptations to sessile and suspension habits. In addition, case studies of marine communities found in fossiliferous localities of the Carboniferous and Permian of Mexico are described.