description Dalmanites limulurus Overview
Dalmanites limulurus is an extinct species of trilobite from Silurian rocks in New York State, including the Rochester Shale. It belongs to Dalmanitidae, a family within the order Phacopida, and has the prominent eyes, segmented exoskeleton, and elongated terminal spine associated with its genus. Its species name refers to the resemblance of that tail spine to the telson of Limulus, the living horseshoe crab genus.
help Dalmanites limulurus FAQ
Why does Dalmanites limulurus have a long tail spine?
Its pygidium ends in a conspicuous posterior spine, giving the fossil a distinctive pointed outline. The species name limulurus alludes to a resemblance to Limulus, the horseshoe crab.
Where are Dalmanites limulurus fossils commonly found?
Collectors know the species from Silurian deposits in New York State, especially the Rochester Shale. That formation is famous for marine fossils preserved from an ancient sea.
What did the large eyes of Dalmanites do?
Dalmanites had prominent compound eyes composed of separate lenses, characteristic of phacopid trilobites. These eyes gave the living animal a broad field of view while it moved across the seafloor.
How can Dalmanites limulurus be distinguished from other trilobites?
Useful features include its broad cephalon, prominent eyes, segmented thorax, and long terminal pygidial spine. Reliable identification also depends on locality and rock layer because unrelated trilobites can develop superficially similar spines.
explore Explore More
Similar to Dalmanites limulurus
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
