Hoplolichas tricuspidatus Spectacularly Spinose Lichid Russian trilobite

This is a well-inflated example of a dramatic member of the Lichida, this is Hoplolichas tricuspidatus. Much time has been spent preparing the plethora of spines in a freestanding mode. To what purpose could such an impressive array of spines be put? Simply stated: DEFENSE. This trilobite afforded a spiny mouthful for any predator from any angle of attack. The various Lichids of Russia are highly prized by collectors.