Description
Offered for sale is a genuine fossilised Fish in Matrix, originating from Eocene-aged strata in the United States, and dating back approximately 56 to 34 million years ago. This specimen represents the preserved skeletal remains of an early prehistoric vertebrate, embedded within its natural limestone matrix, providing a fascinating and tangible connection to Earth’s ancient aquatic ecosystems.
Geological & Fossil Context:
- Specimen: Fish in Matrix
- Fossil Type: Vertebrate – Prehistoric Fish
- Age: Eocene Epoch (approx. 56–34 million years ago)
- Period: Paleogene – Cenozoic Era
- Location: USA
- Scale Cube = 1cm – Please refer to the photo for full sizing
The Eocene Epoch was a time of significant global change. Following the mass extinction that ended the age of dinosaurs, the Eocene witnessed the diversification of many modern mammal and bird families, alongside vibrant aquatic ecosystems. This fossil is a remnant of one such ancient environment—a freshwater or coastal lagoon where fish thrived in abundance.
Fossilised fish are some of the earliest and most important vertebrate fossils in the paleontological record. They provide insight into evolutionary transitions from primitive jawless species to more advanced bony fish. This specimen, preserved in fine-grained sedimentary matrix, likely represents a member of a schooling species, which were often fossilised en masse under rapid burial conditions that limited decay and scavenging.
Fossil Preparation & Appearance:
It is important to note that fish fossils, while genuine, are usually preserved as partial or complete skeletons, lacking the full soft tissue profile. Due to natural decomposition over millions of years, fine anatomical details such as fins or skin impressions are often missing. As a standard practice in fossil preparation, the specimen has been carefully highlighted using a light brown protective stain—a process used by professionals to help outline key features such as the body, head, and fin placements. This enhances visual clarity and helps represent the fish’s original appearance for educational and display purposes.
In some cases, where fin or body placement may be ambiguous, preparers may also subtly illustrate where features would have been to aid interpretation. This practice is common and accepted in natural history presentation.
Key Features:
- 100% genuine Eocene fossil fish
- Preserved in natural matrix from the United States
- Professionally stained and prepared to highlight key anatomical features
- Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Educational and display-ready fossil – ideal for collectors, schools, and enthusiasts
- The exact specimen shown in the photo is the one you will receive
- Scale cube = 1cm for reference – see images for exact measurements
- Note: some fossils may be lightly propped for photographic clarity
Please note that colours may vary depending on lighting, display settings, and screen calibration. Size measurements are approximate, particularly for irregular-shaped matrix specimens.
Add this real prehistoric fish fossil to your collection today—a genuine glimpse into ancient life beneath the waves during the Eocene Epoch!
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