description Odontopleura Overview
Odontopleura is a genus of extinct odontopleurid trilobites known from Paleozoic marine rocks. Like related members of Odontopleuridae, it possessed a strongly ornamented exoskeleton with conspicuous spines extending from parts of the head, thorax, and tail shield. Fossils assigned to the genus are studied by paleontologists investigating trilobite anatomy, classification, and the ecology of ancient shelf seas.
help Odontopleura FAQ
What is an Odontopleura?
Odontopleura is a genus of extinct odontopleurid trilobites found in Paleozoic marine rocks. They are highly recognizable due to their heavily armored and spiky exoskeletons. They scoured the ancient ocean floors millions of years ago.
What did the Odontopleura trilobite look like?
It possessed a strongly ornamented exoskeleton covered in conspicuous spines. These spines extended prominently from the head, thorax, and tail shield, providing a formidable defense against ancient predators. Fossil specimens are prized for their intricate, detailed spikes.
When did the Odontopleura live?
Fossils assigned to Odontopleura are found in Paleozoic marine rocks. This means the genus lived hundreds of millions of years ago, long before the age of the dinosaurs. They eventually went extinct during the great Permian extinction event.
What family does the Odontopleura belong to?
It is a known member of the Odontopleuridae family. Trilobites in this specific family are universally characterized by their extreme bodily spines and prickly armor. They represent one of the most visually distinct lineages of extinct arthropods.
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