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

Location: Lghaft, Morocco

Weight: 11.8 Ounces 

Dimensions: 4 Inches Long, 2.7 Inches Wide, 1.4 Inches Thick (Matrix) 

The trilobite is: 2.2 Inches Long, 1.2 Inches Wide, 0.4 Inches Thick

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

The item pictured is the one you will receive.

Metacanthina Issoumourensis

What are trilobites?
Trilobites are an extinct group of marine arthropods that belong to the class Trilobita. They are among the earliest arthropods known to science and are considered some of the first complex animals on Earth.

When did trilobites live?
Trilobites first appeared about 521 million years ago during the Early Cambrian period, marking the beginning of the Atdabanian stage. They thrived throughout the Paleozoic Era and became extinct long before dinosaurs existed.

Where did trilobites live?
They inhabited Earth’s ancient oceans, occupying a wide range of marine environments from shallow coastal waters to deeper sea floors.

Why are trilobites important?
Trilobites are key indicators of Paleozoic marine ecosystems. Their fossils help scientists understand early arthropod evolution, Cambrian biodiversity, and the development of complex life.

What made trilobites unique?
They were the first animals known to possess a hard exoskeleton, which allowed them to fossilize exceptionally well.

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.