Description
Enrolled Fossil Trilobite – Reedops sp.
Devonian Period (~393–388 million years ago)
Discovered in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Taxonomic Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Trilobita
- Order: Phacopida
- Family: Acastidae
- Genus: Reedops
- Formally described by Struve in 1970
Geology and Stratigraphic Context:
- Geological Period: Middle Devonian
- Stage: Eifelian to early Givetian
- Depositional Formation: El Otfal Formation (or equivalent Devonian marine platform limestone/shale)
- Locality: Anti-Atlas Mountains, near Alnif or Erfoud, Morocco
- Depositional Environment: Warm, shallow epicontinental seas with abundant benthic marine life. The fine-grained sediment favoured detailed preservation.
- Biozone: Polygnathus costatus–M. hercynicus conodont zones may apply, though trilobite-based zonation is less commonly used in Moroccan localities.
Morphological Features:
- Reedops is characterised by its broad, domed cephalon (head) and large, well-developed schizochroal compound eyes
- The trilobite is found in a natural enrolled position, typical of its defensive behaviour against predators
- Segmented thorax with clearly defined pleural lobes and smooth to lightly pustulated surface texture
- Pygidium (tail) is rounded and well-formed, completing the classic Phacopid profile
- Often confused with Phacops, but Reedops has a distinct, more globular glabella and often better defined pygidial features
Palaeontological Significance:
- Reedops represents an important genus in understanding mid-Devonian Phacopid evolution
- The enrolment posture reveals behavioural responses to predation and environmental stressors
- The genus shows notable diversity and preservation in Moroccan strata, making it a staple for palaeontological studies and private collections
Specimen Description:
- You are purchasing a genuine enrolled Reedops trilobite from Morocco
- Carefully chosen for display quality, with key morphological features visible and professionally prepped
- Scale rule / cube = 1cm – Please refer to the photo for full sizing details
- This is the exact specimen you will receive – not a stock photo
- 100% genuine and backed by our Certificate of Authenticity
Provenance and Guarantee:
- From the world-famous Devonian trilobite beds of Morocco
- Sourced ethically and prepared by highly skilled local technicians
- Every fossil is inspected and approved for scientific accuracy and display appeal
- Comes from a curated collection, ideal for enthusiasts, educational use, or natural history displays
Summary:
This enrolled Reedops trilobite is a stunning and scientifically significant fossil from the Devonian period. With its distinct morphology, excellent preservation, and natural defensive posture, it is a perfect example of ancient marine arthropod adaptation. A superb piece for collectors, educators, or lovers of Earth’s deep history.






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