Bug-Eyed Coltraenia Moroccan Trilobite

Prepared in Freestanding Mode

Coltraenia oufatensis

Trilobite Order Phacopida, Superfamily Acastoidea

Geological Time: Middle Devonian

Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Trilobite is 55 mm long (curve measure) by 35 mm wide on a 60 by 85 mm matrix

Fossil Site: Oufaten, Morocco

Code: 13018

Price: Sold


Coltraenia oufatensisDescription: Elegant example of a member of the Order Phacopida, Superfamily Acastoidea with many fine details present. While most frequently known in the trade as “Treveropyge”, this one is actually called Coltraenia. The most diagnostic features of this taxon are the high “eye-towers”. Notice the many exceptional eye facets present on this specimen. The “wrap around” eyes gave a good panoramic view of the trilobite’s environment, allowing it to keep alert for predator and prey alike. Since fish had recently evolved true jaws, any advantage a prey species could derive would place it at an advantage. . 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 the pleural spines free of matrix. 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. Note that the hypostome (anchor for mouthparts) is also preserved, the FIRST such example I have come across in 12 years.

Trilobite Purchase Information

click trilobite pictures to enlarge


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