Turtle Epiplastron Bone Fossil from Iowa Ice Age Pleistocene

Description

Up for sale is an authentic epiplastron (a paired anterior bone from the plastron, or underside shell) of a prehistoric turtle.

This piece showcases exceptional anatomical details, including a fan-like, digitate sutural end—where it interlocked with the adjacent elements of the shell—and a sharp, tapered anterior process. The outer surface features rich, deep pitted dermal sculpturing typical of prehistoric pan-testudines / softshell turtles.

Specimen Details:

• Element: Epiplastron (Plastron / Underside Shell Element)

• Length: ~3.75 inches at longest points

• Condition: Natural, solid specimen with prominent sutural fingers and clear surface texture. No artificial reconstruction.

Highlights:

• Distinct, well-preserved multi-pronged sutural contacts.

• Heavy reticulated/verrucose surface ornamentation.

• Stands out from typical featureless shell fragments due to its clear diagnostic shape.

You will receive the exact fossil pictured.