Hoplolichas furcifer Lichid Russian Trilobite


Name: Hoplolichas furcifer

Class Trilobita, Trilobite Order Lichida

Geological Time: Middle Ordovician, Asery Horizon

Size: 57 mm long

Fossil Site: St Petersburg, Russian Trilobites


Hoplolichas furciferA well-inflated example of a dramatic member of the Lichida, this is Hoplolichas furcifer. The golden Calcite exoskeleton is complemented by the white limestone matrix. The spines most likely served a defensive purpose, offering a spiky mouthful for any would-be predator. The lichids are highly-prized trilobites, with this example prepared in the freestanding mode upon its limestone pedestal, an effort that takes quite a bit of preparation time. In addition, the Hypostome that served as a support for the mouthparts is prepared and clearly visible.

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