Cyclurus Messel pit

Top Messel Predatory Fish: Cyclurus kehreri from the Messel Pit!

Description:
Up for sale is an excellently preserved, large fossil of the prehistoric bowfin Cyclurus kehreri from the world-famous Messel Pit near Darmstadt, Germany.
This specimen stands out due to its outstanding quality and originates from a decades-old German private collection. Since the Messel Pit has been declared a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and is now a strictly protected locality, new finds for the private market are absolutely impossible. This is a closed locality – specimens of this size and quality are an absolute rarity on the global market!

Highlights of this specimen:

• High Quality & Rich in Detail: With a length of 34.5 cm, this fish is an impressive showcase specimen. The fossil was masterfully, professionally and patiently prepared. It is completely preserved and shows fascinating details. The fine structures of the scales, the vertebral column, and the characteristic long dorsal fin are perfectly displayed.
• Dentition & Stomach Contents: Notably, the predatory dentition is excellently preserved – the sharp, pointed teeth are fantastically visible in the jaw. Interestingly, the small, jet-black area in the center of the body represents stomach contents, meaning the fish's final meal was fossilized. Scientific studies show that Cyclurus fed primarily on other fish (e.g., prehistoric perch like Palaeoperca), smaller amphibians, and even insects that fell into the water.
• Preparation Level: The fossil has been professionally and expertly transferred onto a stable synthetic resin slab using the classic transfer method. This stabilized the specimen and preserved the fossil perfectly for eternity.
• Matrix: The matrix measures approximately 41.0 cm x 15.5 cm, providing a visually perfect frame for any display cabinet or wall mounting.

Data at a glance:

• Fish length: 34.5 cm
• Slab size: 41.0 cm x 15.5 cm
• Locality: Messel Pit (UNESCO World Natural Heritage), Hesse, Germany
• Age: Eocene (approx. 47 million years old)
• Condition: Top collector's quality, absolutely legal old inventory from a private collection liquidation.

A fantastic piece of prehistoric history and a highly representative eye-catcher for demanding fossil collectors, museums, or as an exclusive gift.