Trilobite from morocco.
Trilobites: Fossils of Ancient Marine Life
Trilobites are fascinating extinct marine arthropods that once thrived in Earth's oceans. These creatures, known for their distinctive three-lobed body structure, belong to the class Trilobita and are among the earliest known groups of arthropods.
Trilobites first appeared in the fossil record around 521 million years ago, marking the start of the Early Cambrian period. They flourished during the late Cambrian to Ordovician periods, reaching their peak in terms of diversity. Their presence continued throughout the Silurian and early Devonian periods, before a decline in diversity during the mid-late Devonian, largely due to significant extinction events. By the end of the Devonian, only a few species, notably the Proetida, remained.
Despite their long reign in the oceans, trilobites were gradually wiped out by the end-Permian mass extinction event around 251.9 million years ago, leaving only a few remaining species. They were incredibly successful, surviving for nearly 270 million years and evolving into over 22,000 known species.
Explore our selection of trilobite fossils and discover a piece of ancient history that spans millions of years. Perfect for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the wonders of prehistoric life.