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1. Paleozoic Era Fossils: The Paleozoic Era, which spans from 542 to 252 million years ago, has yielded fossils of marine invertebrates such as brachiopods, corals, crinoids, and trilobites. These fossils have been found in various formations in the San Diego area, including the:
- Poway Group: The Poway Group consists of sedimentary rocks formed during the late Paleozoic Era and contains fossils of brachiopods, corals, and crinoids.
- Mt. Woodson Quadrangle: This area has revealed trilobite fossils from the Paleozoic Era.
2. Jurassic and Cretaceous Era Fossils: The Jurassic and Cretaceous Periods of the Mesozoic Era (201 to 66 million years ago) are represented by marine invertebrate and vertebrate fossils found in San Diego. Some notable finds include:
- Ammonites and Belemnites: These fossilized remains of ancient cephalopods can be found in various parts of San Diego, including Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
- Marine Reptiles: Fossils of marine reptiles, such as plesiosaurs, have been discovered in the Cretaceous formations of San Diego County.
3. Cenozoic Era Fossils: The Cenozoic Era (66 million years ago to the present) encompasses numerous fossil discoveries in San Diego, including:
- Mammal Fossils: Fossils of mammals such as saber-toothed cats, mammoths, and camels have been found in various locations throughout the county.
- Marine Invertebrates: Marine invertebrate fossils from the Cenozoic Era are abundant in the San Diego Formation and other formations in the region.
It's important to note that collecting fossils in San Diego may be subject to regulations, and some areas may be protected or require permits. It's always recommended to research local laws and obtain necessary permits before engaging in fossil hunting activities.