This is a rare and well-preserved fossil fish specimen of Palaeoniscum freieslebeni, a predatory ray-finned fish from the Upper Permian period (~258 million years ago). It was discovered in the Marl Slate of the Magnesium Limestone Formation, Zechstein EZ1, a classic fossiliferous deposit from Ferryhill, County Durham, UK.
Palaeoniscum freieslebeni was a member of the Palaeoniscidae family, a group of primitive actinopterygians (ray-finned fish). This species had a torpedo-shaped body, covered in rhomboid ganoid scales, and a powerful tail—features that made it a fast and effective predator. It lived in the shallow Zechstein Sea, an ancient inland sea that once covered parts of Europe.
✔ Exceptional preservation with detailed skeletal structure
✔ Distinct ganoid scales and fin structure visible
✔ From a classic British fossil site, highly sought after by collectors
✔ Represents a predator from the last stages of the Permian period, just before the mass extinction event
All fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Scale Rule / Cube = 1cm – Please refer to the photos for accurate sizing.
This Palaeoniscum freieslebeni fossil is a significant piece of prehistoric life, ideal for museum displays, collectors, and educational study. Own a real Permian fish fossil from the famous UK Marl Slate deposits!