The trilobites from the Devonian period of the Eifel are widely known for their excellent preservation. This Asteropyge comes impressively proves why: The shell preservation is exquisite and shows not only the typical fine granulation, but also innumerable pores, which contrast richly with the lighter shell. Accordingly, the lenses are also excellently preserved. 

The preparation of this piece proved to be difficult. As the shell on the negative side already suggested, the rock separated only very poorly from the surface of the shell. After the shell was transferred from the negative, the actual exposure could take place using fine airscribes and fine air abrasives.  The shell proved to be extremely delicate and hollow in the area of the spines, so that the greatest care had to be taken.

Fossil: Asteropyge comes BASSE 2003

Locality: Gerolstein, Eifel (Germany)

Formation: Middle Devonian, Ahrdorf Formation

Length of the trilobite: 5 cm (about 2 inches)

Work required: 19 hours