Virginia's Natural Emblems Quiz

Question #1
Incredible fossil discoveries have been made throughout the Commonwealth, but only one fossil is officially recognized as Virginia’s state fossil. What is it?

Answer
Chesapecten jeffersonius

This distinctive scallop is the state fossil of Virginia and is the first fossil described from North America in 1687. Chesapecten sp. are commonly found in strata exposed along coastal plain cliffs along major rivers in southeastern Virginia and eastern North Carolina. Chesapecten jeffersonius is the index fossil for the Lower Yorktown Formation, and is distinguished by the number of ribs (9 to 12), and a rather rounded shell edge. Immature scallops attach themselves to the sea floor, whereas adult individuals are free-swimming. Chesapecten is a lineage of scallops that flourished in the shallow seas along the Mid-Atlantic during the Miocene to Pliocene approximately 8 to 3 million years ago. (https://geology.blogs.wm.edu/2016/07/13/virginia-state-fossil/)


Question #2
Virginia has a state rock, too. Which is it?

Answer
C. Nelsonite

Nelsonite is a plutonic or igneous rock that formed by the slow cooling of magma beneath the earth's surface over one billion years ago. Nelsonite is made primarily of the minerals ilmenite and apatite. It was economically important to Nelson County in the 20th century, as it was mined for titanium dioxide. Nelsonite was designated the official state rock of Virginia in 2016. (https://www.energy.virginia.gov/geology/rocks.shtml)


Question #3
Virginia even has a state salamander! Which is it?

Answer
B. Red Salamander

This species was selected because of its beautiful coloration, widespread distribution in the Commonwealth and its ability to raise awareness about the conservation of a group of animals who’s secretive lifestyle often makes it difficult for many people to appreciate them. (https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/virginias-official-state-salamander/)