Quadrops
flexuosa
Trilobites
Order Phacopida, Family Acastidae
Geological
Time : Middle Devonian
Size (25.4
mm = 1 inch): Trilobite is 85 mm long by 53 mm wide (with spines)
on a 75 mm by 65 mm matrix
Fossil Site:
El Oftal Formation, Ofaten , Morocco
Code: 15039
Price: Sold
Description:
Elegant example of a bizarrely-spined member of the Acastidae known
as Quadrops flexuosa. Once called Philonyx, the genus derives its
name from the unusual quadripartite rostrum unique to this taxon.
Note the incredible profusion of spines displayed here. These spines
were a good defense against the fish of their day, affording quite
a mouthful for any predator with the temerity to attack. With the
advent of a reliable source of electricity in Morocco, the quality
of preparation has improved dramatically over the past few years.
Some three years ago I inquired about the possibility of preparing
this particular type of trilobite with all spines freestanding.
I was told that due to the hard nature of the matrix that such
a procedure would be well-nigh impossible. However, about 18 months
ago I received an email from my good friend in Morocco with photos
enclosed of a trilobite prepared in freestanding mode he called
Saroukh (missile). That specimen now holds pride of place in my
personal collection. Since that time I am aware of only three other
specimens, due in part because the specimens are quite rare and
also because it takes a month or more to free one from the entombing
matrix. This one took 237 HOURS to complete by one of the
foremost preparators in Morocco, a gentleman with 25 years of experience.
Note even the hypostome has been exposed. This specimen is truly
stunning when viewed from any aspect, and is destined to become
the cornerstone of any collection, public or private. (I apologize
for the less-than-esthetic photography while still in the shipping
container, but discretion was the better part of valor with all
the spines). |
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