Robust Mesobelostonum Solnhofen Insect Fossil

Description: The lithographic limestone Solnhofen deposits of Germany are famous for far more than the astounding find of the first feathered dinosaur, Archaeopteryx. Giant sized insects are another claim to fame. This fine “water bug” Mesobelostonum deperditum is a good example. It is well centered on the plate with its wings open. The species is considered rare.

This spectacular fossil comes from the lithographic limestone Solnhofen deposits of Germany. These 150 million year old deposits are famous for their exceptionally well-preserved organisms, the most famous of which are the handful of specimens of the ancient bird Archaeopteryx.