3.2" Flexicalymene Trilobite Fossil Ordovician Age Tazzarine Region Morocco COA

Location: Tazzarine Region, Morocco

Weight: 3.8 Ounces

Dimensions: 3.2 Inches Long, 1.9 Inches Wide, 1.2 Inches Thick

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The item pictured is the one you will receive.

Flexicalymene Trilobite

Trilobites (Class Trilobita) are extinct marine arthropods that played a significant role in the early evolutionary history of animals. First appearing during the Early Cambrian (~521 million years ago), they were among the first organisms to develop a mineralized exoskeleton, which allowed for remarkable preservation in sedimentary deposits. Trilobites are considered an essential component of Paleozoic marine ecosystems and are widely used as index fossils to date geological strata.

The trilobite body plan exhibits a distinctive three-lobed symmetry, consisting of a central axial lobe and two pleural lobes. Morphologically, their anatomy is divided into three primary sections: the cephalon (head), which houses sensory structures, eyes, and feeding appendages; the thorax, composed of articulated segments that provide mobility and flexibility; and the pygidium, a fused terminal segment. This segmentation, along with their exoskeletal composition, made trilobites highly adaptable to a range of ecological niches.

Fossil trilobites demonstrate significant morphological diversity, with variations in size, shape, and ornamentation. Their study provides key insights into the evolution of arthropods, early predator-prey dynamics, and the structure of ancient marine communities.

Morphologically, the trilobite body is divided into three major sections:

1.  a cephalon (or head) with eyes, mouthparts, and sensory organs such as antennae.

2.  a middle region called the thorax with some overlapping segments (anywhere from 2 to 61).

3.  a pygidium (or tail section) in which the segments were fused.

Please be aware of the nature of fossils:

Being buried underground for millions of years under immense pressure can be quite harsh. Few fossils emerge completely intact; most require some restoration, and some are modified by humans to improve their appearance. Moroccan workers are highly skilled in excavating and conserving these natural treasures, though natural cracks often appear on the surface. These cracks are part of the fossil's natural charm and are not regarded as flaws.