Potamon Crab Fossil (E)- Denizli Basin | River Walkers Minerals

This compact Potamon fossil is tucked deep inside a beautifully rounded travertine pocket from the Denizli Basin of southwestern Turkey. The crab is heavily encrusted, with its carapace and claws emerging from a landscape of soft, globular botryoidal formations. This is one of those pieces where the mineralization took over in thick, bubble-like layers, giving the entire cavity an almost underwater aesthetic.

The crab sits low and naturally inside its home, its carapace partially revealed beneath the mineral build-up— exactly how it was preserved in situ. Nothing has been carved out or enhanced. Its posture and visibility are the result of the natural deposition of calcium-rich spring waters millions of years ago. This piece is UV reactive and phosphorescent!

The travertine matrix is thick, pale, and full of natural porosity typical of Denizli material. The inner cavity contrasts beautifully with the smooth, chalky exterior block, creating a miniature diorama effect when viewed from above. Under light, the surfaces show a fine sugary sparkle that highlights every curve of the botryoidal texture.

These freshwater Potamon crabs lived in river and spring environments during the Pleistocene era (approx 400,000 years old). Small specimens like this are excellent for collectors who want a highly displayable, sculptural natural-history piece without taking up too much space.

Details:

• Species: Potamon sp.
• Formation: Travertine
• Locality: Denizli Basin, southwestern Turkey
• Age: Pleistocene era (approx 400,000 years old)
• Dimensions: 3.6 × 2.7 in (approx. 9.1 × 6.9 cm)
• Weight: 8 oz (approx. 227 g)

This piece displays beautifully from above, but also works at any angle. It is self-standing.