Crotalocephalus (“Cyrtometopus”) sp.
Trilobites Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae
Geological Time: Middle Devonian
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): 60 mm long by 34 mm wide on a 90 by 65 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Oufaten, Alnif, Morocco
Code: 07005
Price: $2250.00
 Description:
Stunning example of a member of the Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae
with many fine details present. The most diagnostic features of this
taxon are the sharp pleural and pygidial spines and the distinctive
cephalic projections. Until recently, this one has been called Cyrtometopus.
Two years ago at the Tucson show I was told by one of the foremost
collectors of trilobites that he had been told by Richard Fortey that
it was actually a type of Crtotalocephalus. I will also leave the
name Cyrtometopus here for those confused by the name which is often
associated with an altogether different trilobite. The spines may
have aided it in staying at the surface of the soft seafloor. This
is a stunning example of a new preparation technique being attempted
by my main supplier of quality Moroccan trilobites. Relocating to
a facility which has a reliable supply of consistent electricity,
they have just begun to turn out material NEVER BEFORE offered displayed
in such dramatic fashion. A great deal of prep time went into freestanding
this specimen with its myriad of spines. Notice even the hypostome
can be seen from below. This is also the largest specimen I have come
across in 7 years, making it the BIGGEST as well as the BEST I have
been able to secure. |
