Exceptionally-Detailed Fossil Fish Osteolepis – Ancient Tetrapod Ancestor

Osteolepis macrolepidotus

Sarcopterygi, Osteolepiformes

Geological Time: Middle Devonian

Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): 155 mm in length on 200 mm by 170 mm matrix

Location: Cruday Quarry, Orkney, Scotland

Code: UKF18

Price: $625.00 - sold


Fossil Fish OsteolepisDescription: The Osteolepiform fish are thought to be the ancestors of the Tetrapoda due to their paired lobed fins being homologous to the limbs, and the choanae (posterior nostril). Osteolepis possessed two rounded dorsal fins placed posteriorly, and a heterocercal tail with a larger lower lobe. They have thick rhombic scales covered with a cosmine layer (hence the shine). Here is a unique opportunity to obtain an example of this ancient group of fish thought to have given rise to the Tetrapod bauplan. This wonderful example shows all the classic features with incredible detail.

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