Phareodus encaustus with unique taphonomy | 100% Natural Specimen | Green River Formation
Original price
$3,200.00
-
Original price
$3,200.00
Original price
$3,200.00
$3,200.00
-
$3,200.00
Current price
$3,200.00
Phareodus encaustus 100% Natural
Eocene (52.3 Million Years Ago)
Green River Formation, Wyoming, USA
In Stone Fossils Private Quarry
Plate size approx: 42.5" x 29"
Phareodus size approx: 24"
This fossil specimen acquired unique taphonomy as it was preserved.
The fossil wasn't altered or restored to make it look "better" or more complete. It's left in its original state, which gives us a more authentic look at the fossil's history.
A fine layer of surrounding rock (matrix) was carefully removed using microscopic techniques. This reveals the fossil's details without damaging it. The fossil's position and any surrounding features are preserved, providing valuable context for scientists studying it.
This approach helps researchers understand the fossil's original environment, how it was buried, and other details about its history. It's like a snapshot of the past, preserved just as it was found.
**Due to the size of this specimen, it will be shipped in an internationally compliant wooden crate. The plate itself is backed with 3/4" plywood for durability and easy wall hanging. We recommend a french cleat system for hanging purposes.
Shipping costs will be calculated and billed after purchase. Please contact us if you need a specific shipping rate prior to purchase. You may opt in for in-store pickup to cut your shipping costs all together and pick up your specimen in person. You can pick up from our store location in Kemmerer, Wyoming, or we deliver to both the Denver Gem & Mineral show in the Fall and the Tucson Gem & Mineral show in the winter. For any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.
Bony-Tongue Fish - 2 Species Identified: Phareodus encaustus & Phareodus testis
Order Osteoglossiformes, Family OsteoglossidaeLiving members of the Osteoglossidae family:
- include 10 modern species
- live exclusively in tropical freshwaters
- found in South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia
- mouth-brooders (parents hold eggs and hatchlings in their mouths)
- adult specimens usually found alone, but juveniles known from mass mortalities
- indicates that Phareodus schooled as a juvenile and became solitary as an adult
- often preserved with smaller fish in their jaws and stomach, indicating they were predators
- rearward oriented fins on back and underside, adaptation for speed
- large, sharp teeth
- max known size of P. encaustus: 30 inches
- max known size of P. testis: 20 inches