Belinurus

/ˌbɛlɪˈnjʊrəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of primitive trilobite with a distinctive javelin-like tail spine, found in rocks from the Ordovician to Devonian periods.

Etymology

From Greek 'belis' (javelin, spear) + 'oura' (tail), literally 'javelin-tail.' Named by paleontologists for the creature's striking tail morphology.

Kelly Says

When you see a trilobite fossil with that long, sharp tail spine, you're likely looking at Belinurus—early paleontologists thought those tails looked so much like javelins they named the whole creature after them!

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