Fossil Fish. Gyrodus circularis . Jurassic. Solnhofen Limestone. Eichstätt, Germany. ...

Description

Fossil Fish
Gyrodus circularis
Jurassic
Solnhofen Limestone
Eichstätt, Germany

This truly amazing fossil from the renowned Solnhofen Lagerstätte of Germany consists of a singular and incredible Moon Fish of the variety Gyrodus on a classic limestone matrix which also features numerous patches of colorful dendrites, especially near the peripheries of the irregularly shaped rock. Preservation is exceptional on the fossil although some typical painting and retouching was performed to result in the outstanding display specimen. The plate was actually broken through the fossil, but expert restoration of the piece makes it pristine to the eye. The golden-brown fish is aptly nicknamed, with relatively massive round body shape and large circular eye socket. A veiny texture is visible over the body of the fossil fish, and the pronounced V-shaped tail is quite sizable as is the aquatic creature itself. This is a top example of the type from the esteemed locality. The complexity of the matrix adds dimension to the fine Jurassic piece. Gyrodus was a pycnodont variety of bony fishes with special jaws and round flat teeth for crushing food.
Overall Measurements: 18.90 x 18.70 x 0.39 inches (48.00 x 47.50 x 1.00 cm)


[Scale: 1 inch, with mark at 1 cm]

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