Rare Selenopeltis and Asaphellus Trilobite Association

Selenopeltis cf macrophthalma

Trilobites Order Lichida, Family Odontopleuridae

Asaphellus sp.

Order Asaphida, Family Asaphidae

Geological Time: Lower Ordovician

Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Selenopeltis: 25 mm long by 35 mm wide (with spines) Asahellus: 42 mm by 28 mm on a 110 mm by 70 mm matrix

Fossil Site: Upper Fezouata Formation, Zagora, Morocco

Fossil Code: 13171

Price: $295.00


selenopeltis-asaphellus-moroccan-trilobitesDescription: This is a most dramatic example of the odontopleurid trilobite Selenopeltis in natural association with an Asaphellus trilobite. The brick-red color is natural, and contrasts well with the matrix, making for a dramatic display. Material from the Fezouata Formation often displays this reddish color as a result of oxidation of pyrite post-deposition. It is also found in many Chengjiang fossils for the same reason. This one is different from others found in Morocco. It is most closely allied with Selenopeltis gallica, but differs in the fact that it lacks the small occipital spines of that taxon. As a consequence it is most likely the rare Selenopeltis macrophthalma, which although known from Morocco has usually only been seen as fragments. I have included a life restoration for clarification. The trilobites are quite 3-D in aspect, most unusual for material from the Fezouata, making for a fine display specimen with minimal restoration to the eyes of the Asaphellus and pygidium of the Selenopeltis.

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