1.9" Coltraenia Oufatenensis Trilobite Fossil Devonian Morocco 400 Mil Yrs Old COA

Location: Lghaft, Morocco

Weight: 4.7 Ounces 

Dimensions: 2.3 Inches Long, 2.2 Inches Wide, 1.5 Inches Thick (Matrix)

Trilobite Dimensions: 1.9 Inches Long, 1.4 Inches Wide, 0.6 Inches Thick

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The item pictured is the one you will receive. 

Coltraenia Oufatenensis

Trilobites are extinct marine arthropods classified under the class Trilobita and are among the oldest known arthropods in the fossil record. They first appeared approximately 521 million years ago during the Early Cambrian period and thrived in Earth’s oceans throughout the Paleozoic Era, making trilobite fossils vital tools for understanding early life on our planet.

Why Trilobites Fossilized So Well
Trilobites were the first animals to develop a hard exoskeleton, which provided protection and greatly increased their chances of fossilization. This durable shell is one of the reasons trilobites are among the most abundant and well-preserved fossils discovered today.

Distinctive Three-Lobed Body Design
The trilobite exoskeleton is divided lengthwise into three longitudinal lobes:

• A central axial lobe

• Two symmetrical pleural lobes

This unique three-lobed structure is the origin of the name trilobite, meaning “three-lobed,” and is a defining feature used to identify trilobite fossils.

Trilobite Anatomy
The body of a trilobite is divided into three main sections:

• Cephalon (head): Contains compound eyes, mouthparts, and sensory organs such as antennae

• Thorax: Made up of multiple articulated segments (ranging from 2 to 61), allowing flexibility and movement

• Pygidium (tail): A fused tail section that provided structural support and protection

Extinction and Scientific Importance
Trilobites became extinct long before the age of dinosaurs, yet they remain some of the most important index fossils used by paleontologists. Today, trilobite fossils are highly valued by collectors, educators, and researchers for their diversity, beauty, and critical role in revealing the evolution of early marine life.

Please be aware of the nature of fossils:

Fossils buried for millions of years under intense pressure often appear rough and imperfect. Fully intact fossils are rare; most require restoration, and some are even modified by humans to enhance their appearance. In Morocco, skilled workers meticulously excavate and preserve these natural treasures, though natural cracks are frequently visible on the surface. These cracks are considered part of the fossil's natural beauty and are not seen as flaws.