1.9" Metacanthina Issoumourensis Trilobite Fossil Devonian Age 400 Mil Yrs Old COA

Location: Lghaft, Morocco

Weight: 3.3 Ounces 

Dimensions: 2.1 Inches Long, 1.8 Inches Wide, 1.4 Inches Thick (Matrix) 

The trilobite is: 1.9 Inches Long, 1 Inch Wide, 0.4 Inches Thick

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The item pictured is the one you will receive.

Metacanthina Issoumourensis

Trilobites are an extinct class of marine arthropods (Trilobita) that represent some of the earliest known arthropods in Earth’s history. They first appeared around 521 million years ago in the Early Cambrian period and remained widespread throughout the Paleozoic Era before becoming extinct well before the emergence of dinosaurs.

Fossil evidence shows that trilobites lived exclusively in marine environments, occupying habitats that ranged from shallow continental seas to deep ocean floors. Their widespread distribution and rapid evolutionary changes make trilobites particularly valuable for studying early animal evolution and ancient marine ecosystems.

A defining characteristic of trilobites is their hardened exoskeleton, one of the earliest skeletal structures observed in animals. This rigid shell increased their likelihood of fossilization and is the primary reason trilobites are so commonly found in the fossil record. The exoskeleton is divided lengthwise into three distinct lobes—a central axial lobe bordered by two pleural lobes.

The trilobite body plan consists of three anatomical regions: the cephalon, which contains compound eyes, feeding structures, and sensory organs; the thorax, composed of a series of articulated segments that allow flexibility; and the pygidium, a fused posterior section that forms the tail. Depending on the species, the thorax could contain between 2 and 61 segments.

Due to their durable skeletal structure and long geological range, trilobites are among the most abundant and scientifically studied fossils, widely used in research, education, and reference collections.

Why are they called trilobites?
Their bodies are divided lengthwise into three lobes:

• A central axial lobe

• Two symmetrical pleural lobes

How was a trilobite’s body structured?
The body consisted of three main regions:

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

• Thorax: A flexible middle section made up of 2 to 61 articulated segments

• Pygidium (tail): A rear section with fused segments forming a protective shield

Why are trilobite fossils so common?
Their durable exoskeletons are preserved easily, making trilobites one of the most abundant and well-studied fossil groups in the world.

Please be aware of the nature of fossils:

Being buried under the ground for millions of years under tons of pressure tends to be rough. No fossil comes out of the ground whole and perfect. Most fossils have undergone some restoration, while others are altered by man simply to enhance their presentation in different ways. The workers in Morocco do a very professional job of unearthing and preserving these natural treasures; however, natural cracks are visible on the surface. These are part of the natural beauty of the fossil and are not considered defects.