Description: This unusual arthropod is known as Fortiforceps foliosa. The taxon was known from fewer than TEN examples as the the publication of Hou’s book in 2004. The specimen is a member of the “great appendage arthropods” known as the opabinids after Opabinia from the Burgess Shale Fauna. Other members from Chengjiang are Leancoilia, Jianfengia and Alalcomenaeus (see my other offerings for examples). The exceptional detail of the locomatory appendages are readily apparent in this fine specimen, and are indicative of the fact that this was a strong swimmer. This is a truly exceptional specimen, and as such is quite uncommon. I have included a reconstruction of the taxon showing what they looked like in life.

Also see: Chengjiang Biota Fauna List Chengjiang Fossils