Isotelus maximus, State Fossil of Ohio, Trilobite cast replica #667

Isotelus maximus
Trilobite – State Fossil of Ohio

Columbus Shale – Ordovician Age
9 inches long on an 11" x 10" matrix
Solid Resin Replica

This cast was created from one of the finest and most complete Isotelus maximus specimens ever discovered. It captures exquisite detail and preserves the remarkable features of this ancient invertebrate.

Isotelus maximus is among the largest known trilobites, with some estimates suggesting lengths of up to 24 inches. These ancient arthropods lived in marine environments during the Ordovician period and are primarily found in the Columbus Shale of southwestern Ohio.

The genus Isotelus was first described in 1838 by geologist John Locke. Recognizing its significance, the Ohio Legislature officially designated Isotelus as the State Invertebrate Fossil of Ohio with House Bill 145 on June 20, 1985.