The euriptids were large
arthropods that are now extinct. They can be visualised somewhat as a very large
water scorpion They existed during the
silurian period, and are thought to have been one of the most major
aquatic predators that existed at that time.
The physical form of euriptids was quite varied, but they shared many similar features. All possesed eight legs. They had highly developed sensory organs, allowing them to accurately track prey, and large claws with which to swiftly disable them. A large, broad tail would have allowed great speed, either to chase, or to flee. The largest euriptid is thought to have been more than six feet long.
The species on which they preyed most often would have been
trilobites and bony fish. These were both well armoured, but the strong claws of the euriptid could have crushed them.