Large Nankinolithus Ordovician Trilobite

Description: Well-preserved example of a member of the Order Asaphida, Family Trinucleidae, this is Nankinolithus. The cephalic pits (fenestrae) are also evident, the means by which this trilobite filtered detritus from the seafloor. The trilobite presumably hovered at the seafloor, using its legs to kick up particulates which then passed through the cephalic ring. Overall, a fine example of the taxon, rarely offered with this degree of preservation, which is quite 3-D. I have seen very few over the past 8 years, so even a slightly distorted example is hard to get. The brick-red/orange color is natural, and contrasts well with the matrix, making for a dramatic display.