Centrolites are small, usually cylindrical fossils that represent the remains of certain types of marine organisms, specifically those from the class of echinoderms. They are often found in sedimentary rock and provide insights into the paleoecology and geological history of the areas where they are discovered. Centrolites can help researchers understand ancient marine environments and the conditions that led to their formation. Their presence in geological strata can indicate specific ecological conditions during the time of deposition.