Asaphus kowalewskii Russian Trilobite with Dramatic Eyestalks

Description: Coming from the Middle Ordovician Asery Level deposits of the Wolchow River region near Saint Petersburg, Russia, this is a large example of the trilobite Asaphus kowalewskii. Its caramel-colored Calcite shell is well set off by the white limestone matrix. The genus Asaphus underwent some remarkable adaptations to changes in turbidity during the Ordovician, with this one presumably arising in a time of increased turbidity. One thought is that the trilobite may have lain in wait for prey buried in the bottom sediment with only its dramatic 25 mm periscope eyestalks protruding. As is often the case, the eyestalks are repaired when they undergo preparation, but that detracts not at all from this fine large example. As always, the skillful Russian preparators have shown this fine specimen to best advantage, well-positioned on its limestone matrix.