Museum Pterichthyodes Devonian Placoderm Armored Fish Fossil

Description: This unusual fish is known as Pterichthyodes, a name which means “wing- fish” a reference to the dramatic pectoral appendages seen here. The box-like body was enclosed in armor plates, and provided protection from predators., while the tail itself was unprotected. They are thought to have been bottom dwellers, and may have used their pectorals to “row” along the bottom. Few are ever offered; this one would make a welcome addition to any collection.