Crotalocephalina (Crotalocephalus) gibbus
Trilobites Order Phacopida, Family Cheiruridae
Geological Time: Devonian
Size (25.4 mm= 1 inch): Trilobite is 85 mm long (curve measure) by 33 mm wide on a 75 by 85 mm matrix
Fossil Site: Jbel Issoumour, Alnif , Morocco
Fossil Code: 15037
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. With the advent of a reliable source of electricity in
Morocco, the quality of preparation has improved dramatically over
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. The name has changed several times, from
Crotalocephalus to Crotalocephalina, and recently to Cheirurus,
making it hard for the layman to keep up. Whatever you care to
call it, this one will make a fine addition to any collection.
Notice the presence of the large hypostome which served as anchor
for the mouthparts. Given the large size, you can be certain these
were predators. |
