Fossil Fish Plate (Prinolepis)

Travel back approximately 98 million years with this fascinating Prionolepis fossil fish from the Cretaceous Period of Lebanon. This beautifully preserved prehistoric fish measures approximately 6.75 inches long and rests on a natural limestone matrix measuring approximately 8 x 3 inches.

The fossil displays remarkable anatomical detail, including its elongated, streamlined body, sharply pointed muzzle, visible vertebral column, delicate fin structures, and distinctive forked tail. Particularly noteworthy are its serrated, or saw-like, scales, which create a unique textured appearance along the length of its body. The specimen's warm reddish-brown coloration, with subtle bluish-gray mineral tones, contrasts beautifully against the light beige limestone.

Prionolepis was a prehistoric ray-finned fish that inhabited the warm marine waters of the ancient Tethys Ocean during the Cretaceous Period. Its elongated body and pointed snout distinguish it from many other fossil fish found in Lebanon's famous marine deposits. The genus is particularly recognized for its unusual serrated scales, which are an important identifying characteristic.

Fossils of Prionolepis are found in Lebanon's renowned Cretaceous limestone deposits, celebrated worldwide for their exceptional preservation of prehistoric marine life. These ancient seabeds have yielded remarkable fossils of fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms, offering a fascinating glimpse into ecosystems that existed alongside the dinosaurs.

With its slender body, distinctive saw-like scales, and beautifully preserved skeletal features, this Prionolepis specimen makes an excellent addition to any fossil collection, educational display, or natural history exhibit.

Specimen Details:

• Species: Prionolepis sp.

• Geological Period: Cretaceous (approximately 98 million years ago)

• Location: Lebanon

• Fish Length: Approximately 6.75 inches

• Matrix Size: Approximately 8 x 3 inches
  

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