Elrathia kingi Trilobite Fossil from Wheeler Shale Utah USA Middle Cambrian House Range COA

Description

Authentic Elrathia kingi Trilobite – Wheeler Shale, Middle Cambrian

This listing features a beautifully preserved Elrathia kingi trilobite fossil from the globally renowned Wheeler Shale, located in the House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA. Highly sought after by collectors, educators, and enthusiasts, Elrathia kingi is one of the most iconic and widely recognised trilobite species from the Cambrian Period. The specimen is exactly the fossil shown in the photographs, carefully selected for its clarity, detail, and natural beauty. As always, the fossil is 100% genuine and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Setting – Wheeler Shale Formation

The Wheeler Shale dates to approximately 507 million years ago, during the Middle Cambrian, a time when marine ecosystems were undergoing rapid evolutionary expansion. The formation is composed of extremely fine-grained, dark grey to black shale deposited in a deep, calm marine basin. This low-energy environment, combined with low oxygen levels at the seafloor, prevented scavenging and slowed decomposition, enabling exceptional fossil preservation.

These conditions allowed both hard-shelled trilobites and delicate soft-bodied organisms to fossilise with remarkable fidelity. The Wheeler Shale remains a cornerstone of Cambrian palaeontology and contributes significantly to our understanding of ancient marine communities.

Species Overview – Elrathia kingi (Order Ptychopariida)

Elrathia kingi is one of the most recognisable trilobites in the fossil record. Belonging to the order Ptychopariida, it is admired for its balance, symmetry, and ability to preserve clearly within fine shale layers. Many museums and educational institutions use E. kingi as a reference species when introducing students to trilobite anatomy.

Common morphological traits displayed by the species include:

• Smooth, rounded cephalon with a distinct axial glabella
• Fourteen evenly spaced thoracic segments forming a graceful rib-like pattern
• Tapering pygidium that mirrors the form of the cephalon
• Low-relief exoskeleton, ideal for capturing fine structural detail
• Elegant, streamlined silhouette, making it instantly recognisable

These features contribute to both the scientific value and the aesthetic appeal of Elrathia kingi fossils.

Palaeontological Importance of Antelope Springs

Antelope Springs is one of the most famous trilobite localities in the world, revered for producing exceptionally well-preserved specimens from the Cambrian seas. The shale here splits naturally along bedding planes, revealing fossils that appear sharp and well defined. This locality has been extensively studied by geologists and palaeontologists for decades, offering a clear window into early marine biodiversity.

Fossils from this region also serve as valuable geological indicators, aiding in the reconstruction of biozones and palaeoenvironmental conditions of the Middle Cambrian. Every Elrathia specimen is a tangible snapshot of a world that existed over half a billion years ago.

Your Verified Fossil Specimen

• Species: Elrathia kingi
• Formation: Wheeler Shale
• Age: Middle Cambrian
• Locality: House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA
• Authenticity: Guaranteed 100% genuine, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Condition: Carefully chosen specimen with clear anatomical preservation
• Sizing: Full measurements provided in the listing photographs
• Exact Specimen Shown: You will receive the precise fossil pictured

This Elrathia kingi trilobite is an excellent choice for collectors, educational displays, natural history lovers, and anyone fascinated by the early evolution of life on Earth. Its superb preservation and iconic form make it a timeless fossil for any collection.