Trilobites are an extinct group of marine arthropods that lived from the Early Cambrian to the end of the Permian period, about 521 to 252 million years ago. They were one of the most successful and diverse groups of animals during this time and had a wide range of adaptations for different lifestyles.
Trilobites were characterized by their three-lobed body plan, which gave them their name. They had a hard exoskeleton made of chitin and calcium carbonate that protected them from predators and allowed them to fossilize well. Their eyes were particularly impressive, with some species having up to 15,000 lenses in each eye.
These creatures lived in a variety of habitats including shallow seas, reefs, and deep ocean floors. Some species were predators while others scavenged or filter-fed on plankton.
Trilobite fossils have been found worldwide and provide valuable information about ancient ecosystems, paleoclimate, and evolution. They are also popular among collectors due to their unique beauty and intricate details.
Despite their success for millions of years, trilobites eventually went extinct at the end of the Permian period along with many other groups during a mass extinction event. However, their legacy lives on through their fascinating fossils that continue to intrigue scientists and enthusiasts alike.