Centipede-Like Crotalocephalina (Crotalocephalus) Trilobite

Prepared in Freestanding Mode

Crotalocephalina (Crotalocephalus) gibbus

Trilobites Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae

Geological Time: Middle Devonian

Size: Trilobite is 70 mm long (curve measure) by 30 mm wide on a 70 by 60 mm matrix.

Fossil Site: Aatchana, Morocco

Fossil Code: 16147

Price: Sold


Description: Elegant example of a member of the Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae with many fine details present. The most diagnostic features of this taxon are the sharp pleural and pygidial spines and the distinctive cephalon. The describer of this one thought it bore a resemblance to the head of a rattlesnake (Crotalus), hence the genus name. The spines may have aided it in staying at the surface of the soft seafloor. With the advent of a reliable source of electricity in Morocco, the quality of preparation has improved dramatically over the past few years. This one took a great deal of effort to prepare all spines free of matrix. Notice as well the substantial hypostome which served as an anchor for the mouthparts. While I used to refer to trilobites prepared in a mode similar to this as flying, I feel a new term is warranted by the preparation now coming into vogue. The name has changed several times, from Crotalocephalus to Crotalocephalina, and recently to Cheirurus, making it hard for the layman to keep up. Whatever you care to call it, this one will make a fine addition to any collection.

Trilobite Fossil Purchase

click trilobite pictures to enlarge


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