Fossil Paddlefish. Crossopholis magnicandatus. Eocene, Green River Formation. Wyoming, USA. ...

Description

Fossil Paddlefish
Crossopholis magnicandatus
Eocene, Green River Formation
Wyoming, USA

The Eocene Green River Formation hosts an enormous number of fossil animals and plants. By far the largest number are accounted for in two genera of fish: Knightia and Diplomystus. Anything else ranges from the uncommon to those where only one example is known. On a ten scale, paddlefish fossils are a nine - very rare; particularly complete ones. Even with over ten quarries operating, there are many years when no paddlefish fossils are found at all. To add to the difficulty of acquiring a top quality paddlefish, the skin is "scaleless" and chiefly composed of soft, cartilaginous tissue that disintegrates easily, making perfect fossil preservation a chancy prospect for an already uncommon denizen of Fossil Lake. The paddlefish of this offering is one of the few that is very well preserved and properly articulated. The "bill" shows the fine network of neural tissue that is connected to sensitive receptors on the surface of that rostrum, as the "bill" is called. The skull and fins are in their proper positions and not the product of "restoration." You will note the presence of a smaller fish that looks like a herring. It is a fossilized Knightia about 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) in length. Still thinly covered with the typical limestone matrix is another fossil fish, which appears to be only partially present. Protecting the 31 inch (78.5 cm) long paddlefish in its grayish mottled matrix is a rectangular wooden frame with a cleat mounting on the back for proper wall hanging.
Overall Measurements: 39.0 x 25.0 inches (15.4 x 9.8 cm)
Offered at no reserve.

Condition Report*:

Condition report available upon request.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

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