Museum Altiocculus harrisi Trilobites Association

Description: Altiocculus harrisi is perhaps the most sought after species from the Wheeler Shale. The most distinctive feature is the large number of thoratic segments. They are most often found in association with the common Elrathia kingi. This one comes from a mudstone quarry near the world famous U-Dig It Quarry pay site. Percentage wise, Altiocculus harrisi, though found with Elrathias are extremely elusive. A specimen of this size and preservation is cause for celebration indeed. Note the pustules covering the complete carapace.

This is a congenial association plate with two petite Bolaspidellas overlapping, and looking peacefully at rest on the lower left side of the large Altiocculus. Another tiny Bolaspidella is located on the upper right hand side of the plate. The black trilobites are beautifully framed against the light gray mudstone matrix. The Altiocculus is in excellent condition, excepting a slight disarticulation of the bottom seven segments from the thorax. The miniscule pygidium is also missing. These slight imperfections take little away from the pleasing aesthetics of this delightful plate. The slight discoloration surrounding the Altiocsulus is the result of the specimen having been reinforced and re-seated. The trilobites themselves have had absolutely no reconstruction or enhancement.