Pseudoarctolepis Phyllocarid Shelled Arthropod

Description: This unusual Phyllocarid arthropod is known as Pseudoarctolepis sharpi. Phyllocarids are one of the lesser known branchiopod crustaceans from the Cambrian where they are among the earliest animals with a hard shell. They have a fairly large carapace, which protects the anterior part of the body. This structure hinged along the dorsal edge like a bivalve. Usually only the carapace is found. This one has both of the stabilizing arms preserved.

Brooks, H.K., and Caster, Kenneth E. 1956. Pseudoarctolepis sharpi, N. gen., N. sp (Phyllocarida), from the Wheeler Shale of Utah. Journal of Paleontology, Vol. 30, No. 1 pp. 9-14.