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Symmetry in radiolarian skeletons: Rules and exceptions

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Abstract

The history of radiolarian evolution from the Early Cambrian to Recent is the history of the development of diverse skeletons, varying in geometry and tending to classical symmetry, including spheres, spheroids, cones, cylinders, and many other intricate shapes, but with indispensable elements of mixed symmetry. Skeletons with mixed symmetry appeared early in the evolution of radiolarians and permanently dominated. However, from the point of view of classical symmetry, these figures are asymmetrical, lacking distinct orderliness. At the same time, they are harmonious in structure rather than shapeless. Classical symmetry is not precisely realized in biological or crystalline objects. Living organisms and minerals are complex in composition and structurally perfect hierarchically organized natural systems. Therefore, radiolarian skeletons should not be likened to crystalline bodies with perfect symmetry.

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  1. Borissiak Paleontological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Profsoyuznaya ul. 123, Moscow, 117997, Russia

    M. S. Afanasieva & E. O. Amon

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  1. M. S. Afanasieva
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  2. E. O. Amon
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Correspondence to M. S. Afanasieva.

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Afanasieva, M.S., Amon, E.O. Symmetry in radiolarian skeletons: Rules and exceptions. Paleontol. J. 48, 1163–1171 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1134/S0031030114110021

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