Koneprusia sp
Trilobites Order Odontopleuridae, Family Odontopleuridae
Geological Time: Lower Devonian, Emsian Stage
Size: Trilobite is 48 mm long by 30 mm wide (including spines) on a 120 mm by 105 mm matrix.
Fossil Site: Aatchana, Morocco
Fossil Code: 18028
Price: Sold
 Description:
Elegant example of an unusual trilobite which as an Odontopleurid
has many fine relatives in Dicranurus, Leonaspis, and Ceratonurus.
This one has a  plethora
of spines, most of which have been painstakingly prepared freestanding,
making for a spectacular display piece. To what purpose could such
a spiny armament be put? The answer DEFENSE cries out; with fish only
recently (geologically speaking) having developed true jaws, any advantage
a prey species could evolve would stand it in good stead in the eternal
predator/prey arms race. This one is most likel;y Koneprusia brutoni,
and has many fine features. Notice the spines on the cephalic edge
and the subspines on the downward-projecting secondary pleural spines.
This is a well-prepared example offered here at a highly-competitive
price.
Reference: Fossilien, 27 (4), 2010. pp 204-211. See my other offerings here, here, here and here for several more world class Koneprusia trilobites. |
