Enrolled Boeckops skelcki Fossil Trilobite – Devonian – Atlas Mountains, Morocco – Authentic with Certificate

Description

Enrolled Fossil Trilobite – Boeckops skelcki

Devonian Period (~393 to 388 million years ago)

From the Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Taxonomic Classification:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Trilobita
• Order: Phacopida
• Family: Acastidae
• Genus: Boeckops
• Species: Boeckops skelcki
• Formally described by Struve in 1989

Geological and Stratigraphic Context:

• Geological Period: Middle Devonian
• Stage: Eifelian–early Givetian
• Formation: Likely part of the El Otfal Formation or equivalent marine Devonian beds in the Anti-Atlas Basin
• Locality: Atlas Mountains, Morocco
• Depositional Environment: Warm, shallow marine shelf environments with calcareous siltstone and mudstone deposits—ideal conditions for trilobite preservation
• Biozone/Zone: Not precisely zoned, but Boeckops species are frequently associated with marine communities from the mid-Devonian trilobite assemblages

Morphology and Diagnostic Features:

• Boeckops skelcki displays a compact, domed cephalon (head shield), prominent glabella (central lobe), and distinctive eye ridges
• The enrolled position (defensive curl) is natural and complete—a key feature for fossil enthusiasts
• The thorax is segmented with gently tapering pleural lobes, and the pygidium (tail) is semicircular and well-developed
• Eyes are large and schizochroal, typical of Phacopid trilobites, allowing excellent visual field in Devonian seas
• The surface often retains fine tubercles or pustules, adding texture and character
• This species is morphologically similar to Phacops, but differs by its smaller size and rounded glabellar features

Palaeontological Importance:

• Boeckops skelcki is part of the Acastidae family, closely related to both Phacops and Reedops, and represents an important genus in understanding evolutionary transitions between these groups
• The enrolled posture is not only striking visually but also provides insight into behavioural adaptations for predator defence
• Specimens from Morocco are especially prized for their high preservation and preparation quality

Specimen Details:

• Genuine Boeckops skelcki fossil trilobite in full enrolled position, meticulously prepared by skilled Moroccan fossil technicians
• Found in the Devonian-aged beds of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco—world-renowned for trilobite diversity
• Scale cube = 1cm – see photo for full dimensions
• This is the actual specimen you will receive – not a stock image
• 100% authentic with Certificate of Authenticity included

Summary:

This enrolled Boeckops skelcki trilobite is a compact and visually striking example of Devonian marine life. With its domed cephalon, excellent enrolment, and preserved morphological detail, it is ideal for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts alike. Found in the world-famous Devonian deposits of Morocco, it is a rare chance to own a true relic of ancient arthropod evolution—documented, prepared, and certified.