Garfish Messel pit

This garfish Atractosteus strausi comes from the Eocene deposits of the world-famous Messel pit in Germany.

Messel fossils are very sought-after collector's items. The site has not been accessible for many years.
This piece comes from an old collection, it was found in the 1970s.

As is usual with Messel fossils, this exhibit was prepared using the so-called synthetic resin transfer 
method. This is the only way such fossils can be preserved permanently.

The Messel Pit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and new finds have not come onto the market for decades.

The fish measures approximately 22 cm. The unbroken plate measures approximately 28 x 14 x 1 cm. 
Hangers were attached to the back.

High quality and rarely offered exhibit!