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

Location: Lghaft, Morocco

Weight: 5.1 Ounces 

Dimensions: 3.1 Inches Long, 1.8 Inches Wide, 1.3 Inches Thick (Matrix) 

The trilobite is: 2.4 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

Trilobites are an extinct group of marine arthropods belonging to the class Trilobita and are among the earliest arthropods known to science. Considered some of the first complex animals on Earth, trilobites first appeared approximately 521 million years ago during the Early Cambrian period, at the beginning of the Atdabanian stage. They flourished throughout the Paleozoic Era and became extinct long before dinosaurs existed.

These ancient creatures lived in Earth’s primordial oceans, occupying a wide range of marine environments—from shallow coastal waters to deep sea floors. Trilobites play a crucial role in paleontology, as their fossils are key indicators of Paleozoic marine ecosystems, helping scientists study early arthropod evolution, Cambrian biodiversity, and the rise of complex life.

One of the most distinctive features of trilobites is their hard exoskeleton, making them the first known animals to develop a skeletal structure. This durable shell allowed trilobites to fossilize exceptionally well, which is why they are among the most abundant and well-preserved fossils found today.

The name trilobite refers to their unique three-lobed body design, consisting of a central axial lobe flanked by two symmetrical pleural lobes. Their bodies are further divided into three main anatomical regions: the cephalon (head), which houses compound eyes, mouthparts, and sensory organs; the thorax, a flexible middle section made up of 2 to 61 articulated segments; and the pygidium (tail), where the segments are fused to form a protective shield.

Highly valued by fossil collectors, educators, and natural history enthusiasts, trilobite fossils offer a remarkable glimpse into Earth’s ancient marine past and the early evolution of life.

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.