Megistaspis
triangularis
Trilobites
Order Asaphida, Superfamily Asaphoidea, Family Asaphidae
Geological
Time: Lower Ordovician, Wolchovian Horizon
Size: 62
mm
Fossil
Site: Wolchow River Region, St Petersburg, Russia
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 Description:
A well-inflated example of an ancient member of the Asaphidae, this
is Megistaspis triangularis. It is easy to see the derivation of
the species name from the triangular, fusiform shape of this particular
example of the genus. One of some 20 members of the genus, notice
the distinguishing pygidial spine, reminiscent of the younger genus
Huntonia from the Devonian of Oklahoma. It is thought that the low
profile allowed the trilobite to conceal itself just below the surface
of the seafloor. The matrix base has several fine Calcite nodules
present, affording an artistic touch to this unusual piece.
Also
see: Russian
Trilobites Gallery |
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