
Ammonites
Ammonites were prehistoric marine animals related to modern squid and octopuses. They lived millions of years ago, primarily during the Mesozoic Era, and are known for their spiral, chambered shells, which resemble tightly coiled springs. These shells helped them navigate the ocean by controlling buoyancy. Ammonites varied in size, from tiny to several feet across, and were important in ancient ocean ecosystems, preying on smaller creatures. They are commonly found as fossils, which helps scientists understand the Earth's history and the development of life. Ammonites went extinct around 66 million years ago, likely during the same event that wiped out the dinosaurs.