Erbenochile issoumourensis
Trilobites Order Phacopida, Suborder Phacopina, Superfamily Acastoidea, Family Acastidae
Geological Time: Devonian
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): 32 mm long by 22 mm wide on a 95 by105 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Mount Issimour Alnif , Morocco
Code: MT307
Price: $995.00
 Description:
Elegant example of a member of the Order Phacopida, Superfamily
Acastoidea with many fine details present. While most frequently
known in the trade as “Big Eye”, this one is actually
Erbenochile, and has just become commercially available in limited
quantities. The most diagnostic features of this taxon are the
high “eye-towers”. Fortey and Chatterton described
Erbenochile erbeni in September 2003 from a single commercially-
prepared specimen, and it created a stampede among collectors.
The “wrap around” eyes gave a good panoramic view of
the trilobite’s environment, allowing it to keep alert for
predator and prey alike. Since fish had recently evolved true jaws,
any advantage a prey species could derive would place it at an
advantage. This one has been prepared with the genal and axial
spines all free standing, quite an achievement from such hard matrix.
The rarity and difficulty in preparation are what commands a high
price. The lower eye towers and lack of an eye shade are indicative
of a deeper water environment than Erbenochile
erbeni. |
