As a paleontological expert, I have spent years studying the remnants of ancient life preserved within the Earth's crust. Fossils provide a window into the past, allowing us to understand the history of life on our planet. Among the myriad of fossils that have been discovered, some are more common than others due to their widespread distribution and the conditions that favored their preservation.

Ammonites are perhaps one of the most iconic and recognizable fossils. These extinct marine mollusks are related to modern-day nautiluses and are characterized by their spiral shells. The intricate patterns of their shells make them highly sought after by collectors and are indicative of the diversity of life in the ancient oceans.

Brachiopods, often mistaken for clams or scallops due to their similar appearance, are another common fossil. These marine animals have a two-part shell, with a dorsal and ventral valve, and were abundant in the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, reflecting their ecological diversity.

Part of a crinoid, specifically the stem or calyx, can also be commonly found as fossils. Crinoids, or sea lilies, are echinoderms related to starfish and sea urchins. The fossilized remains of their hard parts, such as the central disc and the stems, provide insights into their ancient marine environments.

Gastropods, commonly known as snails, have left a significant fossil record as well. Their shells are often preserved in sedimentary rocks, and their diversity in both marine and terrestrial environments has resulted in a wide range of fossil forms.

Shark teeth are frequently found in fossil collections, as sharks have been a dominant force in the oceans for millions of years. The teeth are made of durable material that resists decay, and their distinctive shapes can tell us much about the diet and behavior of the ancient sharks.

In addition to these, trilobites, which are extinct marine arthropods, are also quite common fossils. They lived during the Paleozoic era and are characterized by their distinctive three-lobed body plan. Their fossils are often well-preserved, providing valuable information about the marine ecosystems of their time.

Fossils of fish are another category that is frequently encountered. Fish have been a part of the Earth's ecosystems for a very long time, and their fossils can be found in various geological formations. The preservation of fish fossils can range from imprints of their bodies to the detailed structure of their scales and bones.

Lastly, fossils of ferns are also relatively common, especially in certain geological periods. Ferns are ancient plants that have been around since the Devonian period. Their leaves and spores are often preserved in the fossil record, offering a glimpse into the ancient plant life.

These fossils are not only of great scientific interest but also serve as a testament to the rich and diverse history of life on Earth. They can be found in various locations around the world and are widely available for purchase in shops and online, making them accessible to both professional collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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The common fossils shown below are fossils of an ammonite, a brachiopod, part of a crinoid, a gastropod (snail) and a shark tooth. Such fossils are widely available to buy both in shops and online. Other relatively common fossils include those of trilobites (extinct marine arthropods), fish and ferns.read more >>