Fossil Shrimp (Aeger spinipes), Solnhofen Limestone, Germany

This is an excellent example of the fabulous preservation found at the quarries within the Solnhofen Limestone in Germany. Of course, these quarries are most famous for yielding complete archaeopteryx (Jurassic bird) fossils with exquisite detail. That detail is present with this fossil shrimp (Aeger spinipes) with six long antennae and clearly visible setae (hair-like structures) on the front limbs. The fossil's size and colour-contrast with the limestone matrix really makes this specimen stand out. From the laggerstatten (anoxic) limestones of Upper Jurassic age near Eichstatt, Germany. Dimensions: 20 x 30 cm