What is nostoceras?

Nostoceras is an extinct genus of cephalopod that lived during the Cretaceous period, around 112 to 94 million years ago. These creatures were similar to modern-day squids and octopuses, with long, straight shells that could reach lengths of up to 2 meters.

Nostoceras had a slender, elongated shell with a smooth surface and a slight curvature to it. They had a siphuncle - a tube that ran through the center of the shell - which allowed them to control their buoyancy by regulating the amount of gas and liquid in the chambers of their shell.

Fossils of Nostoceras have been found in various locations around the world, including Europe, North America, and Africa. They were likely marine animals that lived in shallow, warm waters, feeding on small fish and other marine organisms.

Despite being extinct for millions of years, Nostoceras and other cephalopods play an important role in understanding the evolution and diversity of marine life throughout history.