LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE STARFISH AND TRILOBITE PLATE. ...

Description

LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE STARFISH AND TRILOBITE PLATE
Ophiuridae, Selenopeltis sp. and others
Ordovician
Morocco
This incredible natural assemblage is swarming with masses of long-armed brittle stars and large armored trilobites. A snapshot of the ancient ocean floor, its undulating surface is further enhanced by the preparation of several of the trilobite specimens several inches proud of the rest of the plaque, imparting a superb sense of three-dimensionality. Each specimen has been meticulously prepared and kept in their original arrangement. Related to star-fish and known also as "serpent stars", the brittle stars use their long slender arms to crawl across the sea-floor; there are in fact several species represented here, as well as several fat-bodied true starfish nestling amongst the disc-shaped bodies. Additionally, several slender crinoid stalks interweave within the whip-like arms of the brittle stars. A remarkable combination of species preserved together in a mass mortality event. The natural sandstone matrix is a lovely warm brown coloring esthetically contrasting with the darker, chocolate brown coloration of the fossils. Uncommonly large, the complete specimen measures approximately 68½ x 54 inches, a highly unusual and impressive display piece.

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