Superb Nevada Cambrian Trilobite Olenellus chiefensis

Olenellus chiefensis

Trilobite Order Redlichiida, Family Olenellidae (described by Palmer, 1998)

Geological Time: Lower Cambrian

Size: 35 mm

Fossil Site: C- Shale, Combined Metals Member, Pioche Shale Formation, Lincoln County, Nevada


Trilobite Olenellus chiefensisDescription: A beautifully preserved part/counterpart trilobite specimen of this species that has been recently described in 1998. The genus is restricted to the early Cambrian (540-520 million years ago), making them good index fossils. They have a most distinctive large cephalon containing crescentic eyes, making them quite attractive to collectors. Most are only found as a preserved cephalon, making those from the famous Pioche Shale highly desirable.

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