By Joseph “PaleoJoe” Kchodl
There are many species of CERAURUS trilobites around the world, including Canada and the United States. Each species has subtle differences.
This CERAURUS pleurexanthemus specimen comes from Trenton Falls, New York. It averaged around one inch in length, including spines.
Its semi-circular Cephalon, or head section, ends with slightly laterally rearward pointing spines. The glabella is inflated with small furrows. The glabella also is covered by tubercles or small bumps.
CERAURUS pleurexanthemus also has a narrow axial lobe and wide pleural lobes. The pleural lobes end in short spines. The pygidium is micropygious, meaning it is quite small with two long, rearward-pointing spines.
DID YOU KNOW: Trilobites, an extinct form of arthropod related to insects, crabs, crayfish, and horseshoe crabs, are among the most prevalent invertebrates with hard body parts to appear during the Cambrian Period. These creatures are called trilobite due to the three distinct “lobes” running vertically through the body section.
About the columnist: Joseph “PaleoJoe” Kchodl is a paleontologist, educator, veteran, author, fossil dig organizer/guide, business owner, husband, father, and grandfather, and fossil fanatic. For decades, he’s spent hours in classrooms around the Midwestern United States and beyond, speaking to school children about fossils and fossil hunting. Visit his site to purchase fossils, contact PaleoJoe, visit www.paleojoe.com.
Plus, learn more about PaleoJoe and his daughter PaleoJen and their paleontology exploration partnership in an the article “Fueling a Passion for Paleontology“.
If you enjoyed what you’ve read here we invite you to consider signing up for the FREE Rock & Gem weekly newsletter. Learn more>>>
In addition, we invite you to consider subscribing to Rock & Gem magazine. The cost for a one-year U.S. subscription (12 issues) is $29.95. Learn more >>>
