{"product_id":"elrathia-kingi-trilobite-fossil-12-16mm-in-matrix-from-wheeler-shale-utah-usa-middle-cambrian","title":"Trilobite Fossil | Elrathia kingi | Wheeler Shale, Utah | Middle Cambrian | 12–16mm","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn iconic Cambrian trilobite, naturally preserved in its original Wheeler Shale matrix from one of the world's premier fossil localities.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eElrathia kingi\u003c\/em\u003e is among the most recognisable trilobites in the fossil record — prized by collectors, researchers, and natural history institutions alike for its well-defined morphology, consistent preservation, and immediate visual impact. These specimens originate from the \u003cstrong\u003eWheeler Shale Formation\u003c\/strong\u003e, House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA, deposited approximately \u003cstrong\u003e507 million years ago\u003c\/strong\u003e during the Middle Cambrian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eGeological Background — Wheeler Shale\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Wheeler Shale represents a quiet, deep-marine environment in which fine sediments accumulated in thin, fissile layers. Low-oxygen conditions at the seabed prevented extensive decay and shielded fragile remains from scavengers, producing the extraordinary preservation for which this formation is celebrated. The Wheeler Shale is a cornerstone of Cambrian palaeontology, preserving trilobites, soft-bodied organisms, and rare arthropods with exceptional fidelity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpecies Overview — \u003cem\u003eElrathia kingi\u003c\/em\u003e (Order Ptychopariida)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBelonging to the order Ptychopariida, \u003cem\u003eElrathia kingi\u003c\/em\u003e is widely used in teaching and scientific contexts as a clear example of Cambrian trilobite anatomy. Key features include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRounded cephalon with a well-defined glabella\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFourteen evenly spaced, gently arched thoracic segments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTapered pygidium mirroring the symmetry of the cephalon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmooth, low-profile exoskeleton that captures fine morphological detail\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecimen Details:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecies: \u003cem\u003eElrathia kingi\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFormation: Wheeler Shale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAge: Middle Cambrian (~507 million years ago)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize: 12–16mm (approximate range)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvenance: House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Naturally preserved in original matrix\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEach specimen is hand-selected for quality and clarity. You will receive a specimen of comparable appearance to those shown — colour, matrix character, and preservation detail will vary as with any natural fossil.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay \u0026amp; Collection:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA timeless piece for fossil collections, educational displays, and natural history exhibits. The compact size, scientific significance, and exceptional preservation make this an ideal specimen for both newcomers and seasoned collectors. Pairs beautifully with other Palaeozoic invertebrates or as a centrepiece in a Cambrian-themed cabinet.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"BugsDirect","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48353261813949,"sku":"FS6621","price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1228\/7064\/files\/694135c0df00e5c4daef97db.webp?v=1788220057","url":"https:\/\/www.bugsdirect.com\/products\/elrathia-kingi-trilobite-fossil-12-16mm-in-matrix-from-wheeler-shale-utah-usa-middle-cambrian","provider":"BugsDirect","version":"1.0","type":"link"}