Crotalocephalus Cheirurid Moroccan Trilobite

Description: Stunning 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 cephalic projections. Until recently, this one has been called Cyrtometopus. Two years ago at the Tucson show I was told by one of the foremost collectors of trilobites that he had been told by Richard Fortey that it was actually a type of Crtotalocephalus. I will also leave the name Cyrtometopus here for those confused by the name which is often associated with an altogether different trilobite. The spines may have aided it in staying at the surface of the soft seafloor. This is a stunning example of a new preparation technique being attempted by my main supplier of quality Moroccan trilobites. Relocating to a facility which has a reliable supply of consistent electricity, they have just begun to turn out material NEVER BEFORE offered displayed in such dramatic fashion. A great deal of prep time went into freestanding this specimen with its myriad of spines. Notice even the hypostome can be seen from below.

Also see: Moroccan Trilobites