Ampyx Trilobite Fossil Plate – Prehistoric Beauty
This Ampyx Trilobite Fossil Plate comes from marine life that swam the oceans more than 450 million years ago. Trilobites like Ampyx are extinct arthropods. They had hard exoskeletons, jointed legs, and antennae. The Ampyx species is known for its long head spines that likely helped in sensing or defense. This fossil captures its form in fine detail. You can see the segmented body and the unique head shield. The stone matrix preserves the shape and texture as it was found in nature.
This specimen was found in North Africa, where rich Ordovician deposits hold well-preserved trilobites. The Ampyx is one of the more recognizable trilobites due to its straight, rigid head spines and small body. Scientists believe these creatures lived on the ocean floor. They fed on organic matter in sediment. This makes them important in studying early marine ecosystems.
Full Description of the Animal
Ampyx trilobites were small but striking. They belonged to the order Asaphida, known for elongated glabella (central lobe) and defensive spines. The two main spines extend forward from the head, with one central spine projecting straight back. These features likely deterred predators. Ampyx species also had compound eyes, though in some deep-water forms, the eyes were reduced or absent. This could mean they lived in dim light zones. The body segmentation shows they could curl up like modern pill bugs for protection.
During the Ordovician period, oceans covered most of the land. Marine biodiversity was expanding. Trilobites were abundant and varied in shape. The Ampyx form is a clear example of adaptation to both predation and environmental pressures. Its small size allowed it to move easily across the sea floor. Its spines were a passive defense. Fossils like this one are a direct link to that ancient world.
Technical Details
Origin: Morocco
Geological Period: Ordovician (approx. 470–450 million years ago)
Condition: Natural specimen, partially prepared to reveal fine detail
Material: Fossilized exoskeleton in limestone matrix
Warranty and Shipping
This fossil is securely packaged for safe transit. Ships with a certificate of authenticity. Returns accepted within 14 days if item is in original condition.
See Related Fossils Here – Trilobite Collection
For more information about trilobites, visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
Bullet Point Feature List
Genuine Ampyx trilobite fossil
Distinctive long head and tail spines
From Morocco’s Ordovician strata
Detailed preservation of body segments
Museum-grade display specimen
Certificate of authenticity included
Technical Specs Table
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fossil Type | Ampyx Trilobite Fossil Plate |
| Material | Fossilized exoskeleton in limestone |
| Size | Approx. 9 × 4 inches |
| Estimated Age | 470–450 million years |
| Origin | Morocco |
FAQs
Q: What is a trilobite?
A trilobite is an extinct marine arthropod with a hard, segmented exoskeleton divided into three main parts: cephalon (head), thorax, and pygidium (tail).
Q: When did trilobites first appear?
They first appeared about 521 million years ago during the Early Cambrian Period.
Q: When did trilobites go extinct?
They went extinct about 252 million years ago at the end of the Permian Period.
