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Ceratocephala

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description Ceratocephala Overview

Devonian odontopleurid trilobite notable for horn-like forward projections on its glabella, known from Devonian strata of Europe and North Africa.

help Ceratocephala FAQ

What physical characteristic makes the Ceratocephala trilobite unique?

Ceratocephala is an odontopleurid trilobite most notable for the distinct, horn-like forward projections extending from its glabella (the central lobe of its head). These spiny features, combined with a heavily armored exoskeleton, make it highly sought after by fossil collectors.

During what geological period did the Ceratocephala trilobite live?

This genus of trilobite existed during the Devonian period, often referred to as the "Age of Fishes," which occurred roughly 419 to 359 million years ago. Their fossils help paleontologists date the specific marine strata of that era.

Where are the most common fossil sites for Ceratocephala located?

Fossils of Ceratocephala are primarily found in Devonian marine sedimentary rocks across Europe and North Africa. Notably, high-quality specimens are frequently discovered in the famous fossil beds of the Czech Republic and Morocco.

How does Ceratocephala relate to other spiny trilobites?

It belongs to the Odontopleurida order, which is famous for encompassing some of the most bizarre and heavily spined trilobites in the fossil record. Within this group, Ceratocephala is distinguished specifically by its unique cranidial spines, unlike the more generalized exoskeletal spines seen in its relatives like Dicranurus.

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