Rare Selenopeltis gallica Odontopleurid Trilobite

Description: This is a most dramatic example of the odontopleurid trilobite Selenopeltis gallica. This one is different from most others found in Morocco. It is most closely allied with Selenopeltis macrophthalma, but differs in the fact that it possesses the small occipital spines It is better known from Europe, particularly Spain, but specimens from there typically have little relief and are often distorted by geological forces. I have included a life restoration of the related taxon for clarification. This is only the third example I have been able to secure in 20 years, and is far larger than the previous specimen.