Unusual Pliomera Norwegian Trilobite

Description: A member of the Order Phacopida, Suborder Cheiurina Encrinuridae with many fine details present. this is an example of the rare trilobite Pliomera fischeri. The most distinctive feature of this trilobite is the notched pygidium. These trilobites are usually found in an enrolled condition with the pygidium neatly tucked under the cephalon. Enrollment was a defensive posture assumed by most trilobites. This one took it one step further; the notches in the pygidium and corresponding grooves in the cephalon allowed the trilobite to breathe freely while enrolled, allowing it to wait out any would-be predator. This one is quite 3-D in appearance and nearly prone. The rich ebony color is a stark contrast to the café au lait coloration for those from Russia which are far more often seen. Interestingly enough, all the trilobites from this region display this same rich color, making for a dramatic display.