Description
Authentic Asaphiscus wheeleri Trilobite in Matrix – Wheeler Shale, Middle Cambrian
This listing features a genuine Asaphiscus wheeleri trilobite fossil, preserved naturally in its original matrix from the world-famous Wheeler Shale Formation of the House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA. This species, known for its elegant, broad-bodied form and excellent preservation potential, is a favourite among trilobite collectors and students of palaeontology. Each specimen offered is carefully selected for quality and detail, and the photographs show a representative example of the fossil you will receive. All fossils are 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Context – Wheeler Shale, Middle Cambrian
The Wheeler Shale, deposited around 507 million years ago, is one of the most scientifically important Middle Cambrian formations in North America. Formed in a deep, quiet marine basin, the shale consists of ultra-fine muds and silts laid down in thin, fissile layers. Periods of low oxygen on the seafloor slowed decomposition and prevented disturbance by scavengers, allowing trilobites and other marine organisms to fossilise in remarkable detail.
The Wheeler Shale represents a crucial interval shortly after the Cambrian Explosion—a time of rapid evolutionary diversification in marine ecosystems. Fossils from this formation provide invaluable insights into early arthropod biology, community structure, and sedimentary processes in ancient seas.
Species Overview – Asaphiscus wheeleri (Order Ptychopariida)
Asaphiscus wheeleri is a distinctive and easily recognisable trilobite within the rich fossil fauna of the Wheeler Shale. Belonging to the order Ptychopariida, this species is characterised by its broad thorax, smooth exoskeleton, and well-balanced proportions. Its preservation in matrix helps display its natural form as it appeared on the Cambrian seafloor.
Key morphological features include:
- Broad, rounded cephalon with a well-defined glabella
- Smooth exoskeleton, lacking heavy ornamentation
- Multiple thoracic segments with graceful, evenly spaced pleurae
- Tapered pygidium, proportionate to the cephalon
- Robust, wide-bodied profile, making it visually striking among Cambrian trilobites
These features, combined with the fine-grained shale matrix, make Asaphiscus wheeleri a highly desirable species for collectors seeking well-preserved Cambrian fossils.
Palaeontological Importance – Antelope Springs Locality
The House Range at Antelope Springs has long been recognised as one of the premier trilobite localities worldwide. Known for producing exceptionally preserved fossils, the site has been central to palaeontological research for decades. Trilobites discovered here provide critical information for reconstructing Cambrian biozones, sedimentary environments, and evolutionary relationships among early arthropods.
The locality’s fine shales split cleanly to reveal detailed trilobite specimens, and fossils from this region are represented in museum collections around the world. A specimen of Asaphiscus wheeleri from Antelope Springs reflects both scientific relevance and natural beauty.
Your Genuine Fossil Specimen
- Species: Asaphiscus wheeleri
- Formation: Wheeler Shale
- Age: Middle Cambrian
- Locality: House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA
- Authenticity: Guaranteed 100% genuine with Certificate of Authenticity
- Condition: Preserved naturally in original matrix with clear anatomical features
- Sizing: Full dimensions shown in listing photographs
- Representative Photos: You will receive a specimen of comparable quality
This Asaphiscus wheeleri trilobite is an excellent addition to any fossil collection, museum display, educational resource, or personal natural history showcase. Its elegant morphology, exceptional preservation, and deep geological significance make it a captivating and meaningful piece of Earth’s ancient past.
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