Bundenbach Medusaster rhenanus
5 cm (fossil), 15×11.5 cm (matrix)
Bundenbach; Obereschenbach pit
Rare serpent star with excellent details, on unbroken plate.
Medusaster rhenanus – The “many-armed” treasure
An icon from the Hunsrück slate.
Among the multitude of brittle stars, this species occupies an absolutely special position. Its name is a tribute to the mythological Medusa – and for good reason: with an impressive number of 11 to 15 arms, it is one of the most delicate and at the same time most spectacular phenomena of the Devonian seabed.
The anatomy of elegance:
- Multi-armed wonder: While most brittle stars have five arms, Medusaster breaks this rule. The slender arms taper very evenly and end in gently rounded tips. In the dark slate matrix, the animal often looks like a delicate flower.
- Imposing oral skeleton: The relationship between the body and mouth is an anatomical peculiarity. The body disk and mouth skeleton are almost the same size. The resulting, extraordinarily large mouth is formed by the first ambulacralia – a striking center that attracts attention.
- The five rows of spines: With excellent preservation and masterful preparation, a fascinating detail is revealed on the upper side (dorsal) of each individual arm: five delicate rows of the finest spines stretch across the arms, giving the fossil an almost velvety texture.
A highlight for aesthetes and systematists
Due to its many arms, it is one of the most sought-after collector’s items in the world. It is not only a scientific document of biodiversity, but also a true work of art of the earth’s history due to its symmetrical beauty.
A must for every Bundenbach fossil collection
Due to the high number of arms and their filigree structure, the complete exposure of this fossilization is a test of patience for every Bundenbach preparator. A piece in which all the arms lie harmoniously on the slab is a rarity and a showpiece for any high-end collection.
