Enrolled Reedops maurulus Fossil Trilobite – Devonian – Morocco – Authentic Fossil with Certificate

Description

Enrolled Fossil Trilobite – Reedops maurulus

Devonian Period (~393–383 million years ago)

Found in the Anti-Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Taxonomic Classification:

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Trilobita
• Order: Phacopida
• Suborder: Phacopina
• Superfamily: Acastoidea
• Family: Acastidae
• Genus: Reedops
• Species: Reedops maurulus
• Originally described by Richter & Richter in 1923

Geological Context:

• Age: Middle Devonian
• Stage: Eifelian to early Givetian
• Location: Near Alnif or Erfoud, Anti-Atlas region, southeastern Morocco
• Formation: Lower to mid-Devonian marine shale and limestone beds
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine shelf with low oxygen zones, likely silty and calcareous muds accumulating in warm epicontinental seas

Morphology and Diagnostic Features:

• Reedops maurulus is known for its distinctive globular cephalon (head), finely detailed compound eyes, and enrolled defensive posture, which this specimen perfectly displays
• Enrolled specimens are particularly sought after, showing how trilobites protected themselves from predators
• It features well-developed pleural lobes, axial lobes, and clearly segmented thoracic rings
• The surface may show fine tubercles and sculpture, especially on the glabella (central lobe of the head)
• Known for excellent preservation in Moroccan limestone, many Reedops specimens display exceptional 3D detail

Palaeobiological Significance:

• Trilobites such as Reedops were benthic (bottom-dwelling) detritivores or scavengers
• Their enrolment behaviour represents an evolutionary response to increasing predation in marine ecosystems
• The genus Reedops is often used for studies in trilobite visual systems due to its highly developed schizochroal eyes

Specimen Details:

• 100% genuine specimen of Reedops maurulus, expertly cleaned and preserved
• Collected from Devonian strata in Morocco, a globally recognised hotspot for trilobite fossils
• Presented in its fully enrolled defensive posture, showcasing iconic trilobite behaviour
• Scale rule / cube = 1cm – see photos for exact sizing
• This is the actual specimen you will receive – no stock photography
• Comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity

Summary:

This Reedops maurulus trilobite is an excellent enrolled specimen from the Devonian seas of what is now Morocco. With its finely detailed features, evolutionary significance, and iconic posture, it makes a fascinating display fossil for collectors, educators, or anyone with an interest in ancient marine life. A classic Devonian fossil from one of the world’s richest palaeontological regions.