World Class Quadrops flexuosa Trilobite

Prepared Free Standing - Potential Trilobite of the Year

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


Quadrops flexuosaDescription: 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 Quadrops flexuosa Museum Trilobite 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).

Trilobites for Sale

click to enlarge

   

Fossil Mall Navigation:

l Fossils for Sale l Museum and Rare Fossils l Fossil Dealers l

Fossils Category:
l Fossil Amber l Ammonite Fossils l Dinosaur Fossils l
l Crinoids and Echinoderms l Fish Fossils l Insect Fossils l Invertebrate Fossils l
l Plant Fossils l Stromatolites l Trace & Ichnofossils l Trilobite Fossils l