Quantified growth and possible heterochronic development of two corynexochid trilobites from the middle Cambrian (Miaolingian Series, Wuliuan Stage) Mount Cap Formation, eastern Mackenzie Mountains, northwestern Canada

Abstract

Abstract The ontogeny of two species of corynexochid trilobites from the middle Cambrian Mount Cap Formation of the eastern Mackenzie Mountains, northern Canada, is documented. Sahtuia carcajouensis (Dolichometopidae) and Mackenzieaspis parallelispinosa (Zacanthoididae) are both endemic to this formation and only known from one locality. They, along with several other corynexochid taxa, occur in a succession of mudstone with scattered carbonate interbeds, deposited in a weakly storm-agitated setting near the flank of a semi-enclosed basin. The ontogeny of both species is characterized by mainly normal cranidial development, but a unique distribution of segments in their thoraxes and pygidia. The number of trunk segments was typical for their respective families, whereas the final number of segments released into the thorax was reduced. This occurred in both species through timing modifications to segment release, indicating heterochrony. Sahtuia carcajouensis and Mackenzieaspis parallelispinosa are likely derived from two separate clades, and heterochrony probably arose separately but synchronously. The endemicity of both species probably reflects unique paleoecological conditions in this part of the basin. Preliminary results indicate that the fossil-bearing mudstone was deposited under well-oxygenated conditions that underwent high nutrient flux and possibly experienced varying salinity. These factors may have affected the organisms’ physiology, or perhaps provoked an adaptation to achieve early maturation.