Erginidae

Erginidae is a family of extinct marine arthropods belonging to the class Trilobita. These trilobites lived during the Cambrian period. They are characterized by their small size, prominent glabella (the central lobe of the cephalon), and a pygidium (tail shield) that is typically smaller than the cephalon (head shield).

Erginid trilobites are found in various Cambrian fossil deposits around the world. Their relatively simple morphology suggests they were likely benthic creatures, living on or near the seafloor. Their exact ecological role is not fully understood, but they likely scavenged or fed on organic matter present in the sediment.

The taxonomy of Erginidae can be complex, and the classification of certain genera and species within the family has been subject to revision based on new fossil discoveries and phylogenetic analyses.