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Mammoth Cave National ParkGroup party in Audubon Avenue
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Mammoth Cave National Park
Fossils
 
Nature and Science
Mississippian-age marine fossils are found in Mammoth Cave
The Mississippian limestones of the Mammoth Cave region (300-325 million years old) formed at the bottom of a shallow saltwater sea now known as the Mississippian Sea. The marine life of that ancient sea is reflected in a range of fossils interspersed through the various limestone strata and exposed on the cave walls as caves were hollowed out. Typical fossils found in the cave include crinoids, blastoids, gastropods, and the teeth of fossil sharks.
Park entry sign.  

Did You Know?
Mammoth Cave is one of the oldest tourist attractions in North America. Tours of Mammoth Cave have been offered since 1816.

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Last Updated: July 24, 2006 at 22:37 EST