Crotalocephalus aff. africanus
Trilobites Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae
Geological Time: Devonian
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Trilobite is 80 mm long by 40 mm wide (with spines) on a 105 by 80 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Jorf, Morocco
Code: 14044
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. It is not to be confused
with the common Crotalocepahlus (actually Crotalocephalina).
This one has more coplanar cheeks than those found in Crotalocephalina,
and much longer pygidial spines. It is closest to the species
Crotalocephalus africanus, but that one is found along the coast
of Morocco near Rabat. There has been increased interest in trilobites
from Jorf leading to discoveries of new types such as this. See
my other offerings for a truly stunning Crotalocephalus prepared
entirely
freestanding. |
