Elrathia kingi Trilobite Fossil 12–16mm in Matrix from Wheeler Shale Utah USA Middle Cambrian COA

AUTHENTIC ELRATHIA KINGI TRILOBITE IN MATRIX – WHEELER SHALE, MIDDLE CAMBRIAN

This listing features a genuine Elrathia kingi trilobite fossil, naturally
preserved in its original shale matrix, from the world-renowned Wheeler Shale Formation in the House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA. These compact trilobites, typically 12–16mm, display outstanding detail and represent one of the most iconic species of the Cambrian Period. Each fossil is carefully chosen for quality and clarity, and the photographs show a representative example of the specimen you will receive. All fossils provided are 100% genuine and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

GEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND – WHEELER SHALE (MIDDLE CAMBRIAN)

The Wheeler Shale, deposited approximately 507 million years ago, is one of the most important fossil-bearing formations from the Middle Cambrian. It represents a quiet, deep-marine environment in which extremely fine sediments accumulated in thin, fissile layers. The low-oxygen conditions at the seabed prevented extensive decay and protected fragile remains from scavengers, resulting in the extraordinary preservation for which this formation is famous.

This shale preserves a diverse array of Cambrian life, including trilobites, soft-bodied organisms, and rare arthropods. Its exceptional record makes the Wheeler Shale a cornerstone of research into Cambrian biodiversity, marine ecology, and early arthropod evolution.

SPECIES OVERVIEW – ELRATHIA KINGI (ORDER PTYCHOPARIIDA)

Elrathia kingi is one of the most recognisable trilobites in the fossil record and remains highly valued among collectors due to its well-defined morphology and consistent preservation. Belonging to the order Ptychopariida, the species is widely used in teaching and scientific settings as a clear example of Cambrian trilobite anatomy.

Typical features exhibited by Elrathia kingi include:

• Rounded cephalon with a well-defined glabella
• Fourteen rib-like thoracic segments, evenly spaced and gently arched
• Tapered pygidium, mirroring the symmetry of the cephalon
• Smooth, low-profile exoskeleton, ideal for capturing fine detail
• Balanced, streamlined outline characteristic of the species

The small size range of 12–16mm often results in especially crisp preservation, as the fine-grained matrix captures the subtle morphological details with precision.

PALAEONTOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE – HOUSE RANGE, ANTELOPE SPRINGS

The House Range at Antelope Springs is internationally celebrated as one of the premier trilobite localities in the world. Here, the shale layers split cleanly to reveal exceptionally preserved fossils, making the locality a major centre for both palaeontological research and responsible fossil collecting.

This site has contributed profoundly to the study of Cambrian ecosystems by providing insights into sedimentation, marine community structure, and biostratigraphy. Fossils from this locality are admired not only for their scientific value but also for their natural beauty and display quality.

YOUR GENUINE FOSSIL SPECIMEN

• Species: Elrathia kingi
• Formation: Wheeler Shale
• Age: Middle Cambrian
• Size Range: 12–16mm (see representative photographs)
• Locality: House Range, Antelope Springs, Millard County, Utah, USA
• Authenticity: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Condition: Naturally preserved trilobite in original matrix
• Representative Photos: You will receive a specimen of comparable appearance and quality

These Elrathia kingi trilobites in matrix offer a unique connection to Earth’s early marine ecosystems and make excellent additions to fossil collections, educational displays, and natural history exhibits. Their compact size, scientific importance, and exquisite preservation create a timeless and meaningful piece of the ancient Cambrian world.