Description

Dalmanites Trilobite for Sale, Silurian Age

Species: Dalmanites limulurus

Age:  Silurian, 424 million years old

Location: Middelport, New York, USA

Formation: Rochester Shale

Trilobites are an extinct group of marine arthropods that most closely resemble rolly-pollys (pillbugs) or horseshoe crabs in appearance and ecological niche today. Known as one of the most prolific and prominent groups in prehistory, these animals are sought by collectors who devote their entire collections to finding and displaying their unique and sometimes bizarre species. As one of the first forms of life to develop a compound eye (similar to that of modern flies), these animals could see early all 270 degrees around their bodies to hunt food and avoid becoming lunch themselves.

This piece is sought after by collectors due to the beautiful eyes, spines, and unique pointed tail, which helps set this animal apart from other species during this time. This trilobite has been expertly prepared with no restoration to the specimen itself. The matrix surrounding the piece has been reinforced and restored, however, to help keep the fossil safe for its next 424 million years. Unfortunately, the Rochester Shale, where this piece originates, is now a closed formation, meaning this species will only be available out of older collections going forward, so now is an excellent opportunity to add this one to yours before prices increase in the coming years.

Includes a stand and a Certificate of Authenticity.