Dikelocephalid

/ˌdaɪkɛloʊˈsɛfələd/ noun

Definition

A member of an extinct family of trilobites with a characteristic broad or shield-like head structure.

Etymology

From Greek 'dikelos' (two-lobed) or 'dike' (resembling something broad) + 'kephalē' (head) + the Latin suffix '-id' (member of a family). This scientific term emerged in paleontology to classify these ancient marine arthropods.

Kelly Says

Dikelocephalids lived over 400 million years ago and had some of the most elaborate head shields of any trilobite—their armor was basically the medieval knight outfit of the prehistoric ocean!

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