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Fine Cast of 4 Chinese Trilobites on One Plate
Species: Yuepingia sp.
Hunan Province, China
Yinchufu Series
Ordovician Period
Approx. 500 Million Years
Cast from original fossil
Trilobites were a large group of marine arthropods that thrived in
ancient oceans, and which went extinct long before dinosaurs appeared on earth. This cast is unique not only because it features 3 beautifully
preserved specimens of the Ordovician trilobite Yuepingia, but also because it contains a 4th specimen of a small juvenile or "baby" trilobite of the small species, and in a remarkable position. Can you find it? It's riding right in the middle of the back of one of the adults! I've never seen this phenomenon in any trilobite slab before. The baby was not added to this specimen, but occurred there naturally. Granted, its possible that the position of the juvenile is an accident rather than deliberate behavior, but its a very intriguing specimen in any case. The replica was carefully cast in high-strength gypsum cement from a mold of the original fossil (still in my possession) and was
meticulously hand painted to create a natural appearance. It includes a hanger and felt pads on the back, and full identification label. It would make a great addition to any fossil collection, a cool conversation piece, and the perfect holiday gift for any fossil or trilobite enthusiast.
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