Description
The rarity of complete Lochmanolenellus trilobites cannot be understated. This specimen is well defined, preserved in oxidized limonite on a purple and tan banded matrix with a small partial Elliptocephala trilobite to the left. Lochmnolenellus trilobites are very old and very odd, with their characteristic “double genal spines”. L. pentagonalis is the oldest of all Lochmanolenellus species, appearing in the Lower Cambrian in the Poleta Formation of Nevada along with Elliptocephala trilobites. The rock this species is found in is extremely unusual, resembling pumice or punky siltstone. This rock is probably siltstone which has experienced a total dissolution of all carbonates. An earlier hypothesis that these isolated deposits may have been the result of hydrothermal ocean vents persists. One is hard pressed to find a complete example of this species in any collection.
Age: Lower Cambrian
Species Name: Lochmanolenellus pentagonalis
Order / Family: Redlichiida / Biceratopsidae
Locality: Esmeralda County, Nevada
Formation: Poleta Formation
