Neltneria Early Cambrian Moroccan Trilobite

This plate displays a fine example of a member of the order Redlichiida known asNeltneria termieri. Coming from the Issafen Formation deposits of Morocco, it is firmly placed in the Early Cambrian. While this one comes from the Issafen Formation, it is from a less well-known site at Amouslek. The specimens from this quarry often take on a black color such as this, a result of perfusion of various minerals, perhaps containing manganese. Whatever the source it makes for a dramatic contrast to the light matrix.

Reference: Journal of Paleontology, Vol 69 No 3, (May 1995) pp459-474.