Elrathia kingi Trilobite Fossil 5-15mm Wheeler Shale Middle Cambrian Utah USA: Genuine Collector Specimen

Authentic Elrathia kingi Trilobite – Wheeler Shale, Middle Cambrian

This listing features a genuine Elrathia kingi trilobite fossil sourced from the world-famous Wheeler Shale Formation in the House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA. These small but scientifically important trilobites, typically 12–16mm, are perfect for collectors seeking an authentic Cambrian fossil with well-defined anatomical features. Each fossil is carefully selected, and the photos show a representative example of the quality and appearance of the specimen you will receive. Every fossil is 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context – Wheeler Shale Formation

The Wheeler Shale, dated to around 507 million years ago during the Middle Cambrian, is one of the most celebrated fossil-bearing formations in North America. This formation was deposited in a calm, deep-water marine setting, where fine, clay-rich sediments accumulated in thin, easily split layers. With low oxygen levels at the seafloor and minimal disturbance from currents or scavengers, the environment was ideal for fossil preservation.

These unique conditions allowed both hard-shelled trilobites and soft-bodied organisms to fossilise with remarkable clarity. The Wheeler Shale has significantly advanced our understanding of Cambrian marine ecosystems, arthropod evolution, and early biodiversity following the Cambrian Explosion.

Species Overview – Elrathia kingi (Order Ptychopariida)

Elrathia kingi is among the most iconic trilobites ever discovered and is widely used in classrooms, museums, and research collections. Its consistent form, clear anatomical layout, and excellent preservation potential make it one of the best species for studying early trilobite structure.

Typical morphological features of Elrathia kingi include:

• Broad, rounded cephalon with a defined glabella
• Fourteen well-formed thoracic segments arranged in a gently arched pattern
• Tapered pygidium with proportional axial lobe detail
• Smooth, low-profile exoskeleton, allowing fine features to preserve clearly
• Elegant, symmetrical outline characteristic of the species

These fossils offer a perfect introduction to Cambrian trilobites while remaining scientifically valuable for understanding the order Ptychopariida, one of the major trilobite groups of the era.

Palaeontological Significance of Antelope Springs

The House Range at Antelope Springs is internationally known for producing exceptionally preserved trilobites, and Elrathia kingi is the signature species of this locality. The shale splits cleanly along natural bedding planes, revealing complete trilobites preserved with outstanding detail. This area has been extensively studied for its contribution to Cambrian biostratigraphy, sedimentology, and palaeoecology.

Specimens from this locality are highly sought-after for both their beauty and their scientific importance. They represent a moment frozen in time from an ancient seabed that flourished half a billion years ago.

Your Genuine Fossil Specimen

• Species: Elrathia kingi
• Formation: Wheeler Shale
• Age: Middle Cambrian
• Size Range: 12–16mm (see photos for representative sizing)
• Locality: House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA
• Authenticity: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Condition: Carefully selected specimen with clear anatomical preservation
• Representative Photos: You will receive a fossil of comparable appearance and quality

These Elrathia kingi trilobites are perfect for collectors, educators, fossil enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a real piece of Earth’s earliest complex marine life. Each specimen offers a fascinating connection to the ancient Cambrian oceans and makes a timeless addition to any natural history collection.