description Isotelus maximus Overview
Isotelus maximus is a large asaphid trilobite species that lived during the Late Ordovician and is known from rocks in eastern North America. Its broad, flattened exoskeleton consists of a semicircular head, a segmented thorax, and a large tail shield, while some specimens exceed 70 centimeters in length. Ohio designated it the state fossil in recognition of notable specimens recovered from the state's Ordovician deposits.
help Isotelus maximus FAQ
How large could Isotelus maximus grow?
Isotelus maximus was one of the larger trilobites, with exceptional specimens extending beyond half a meter. Most fossils are smaller, and complete individuals are less common than isolated pieces of the exoskeleton.
Where are Isotelus maximus fossils found?
The species is known from Late Ordovician rocks in eastern North America. Fossils associated with Isotelus are particularly familiar from parts of the United States and Canada where marine sedimentary rocks of that age are exposed.
What did Isotelus maximus look like when alive?
It had a broad, flattened exoskeleton with a large head shield, eight thoracic segments, and a substantial tail shield. Like other trilobites, it also possessed jointed limbs beneath the body that are rarely preserved.
How is Isotelus maximus different from Isotelus rex?
Both are exceptionally large asaphid trilobites, but they are recognized as different species from different fossil occurrences. Isotelus rex is famous from Manitoba, Canada, while I. maximus is widely reported from Late Ordovician strata farther east and south in North America.
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