Psychopyge Trilobite on Matrix from Morocco (1.2 grams)

Psychopyge elegans is a trilobite species from the Devonian Hamar Laghdad deposits near Alnif, Morocco. It is a member of the Order Phacopida. The species is known for its strange shovel-like protrusion off the anterior of the cephalon (head), which has been suggested to be used to root up food from the prehistoric ocean floor.

This is one of the most famous members of the trilobites' most famous family, the Phacopida, known for their huge compound eyes. Psychopyge is defined by an extremely long appendage at the end of the nose. Speculation as to this adaptation ranges from sexual selection to a burrowing appendage.

Age: Upper Devonian: 400-380 MYO

Location: Alnif, Morocco.

Weight: 1.2 lbs, Dimensions: 5 x 1.5 x 4 inches