Hollardops mesocristata A Grade Fossil Trilobite Timrhanrhart Formation Devonian Morocco Genuine Specimen with COA

Description

Authentic Hollardops mesocristata Trilobite – Morocco

This listing is for a superb Hollardops mesocristata trilobite fossil, graded A for its outstanding preservation. It comes from the Timrhanrhart Formation, Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian, El Ahhsr, Foum Zguid, Morocco. The exact fossil pictured is the specimen you will receive, photographed alongside a 1cm scale cube for accurate size reference. All of our fossils are 100% genuine and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing both provenance and scientific value.

This trilobite has been expertly prepared by a skilled Moroccan specialist, who has many years of experience in fossil collection and preparation. Their craftsmanship ensures the finest details of the fossil are revealed, with careful attention to preserving its natural integrity. By choosing this specimen, you are also supporting sustainable and ethical trade, helping to provide fair income for local preparers and their families.

Geological Context – Timrhanrhart Formation

The Timrhanrhart Formation is part of Morocco’s Devonian fossil-bearing strata and is renowned worldwide for producing some of the most beautiful and complete trilobites. Dating to the Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian (approx. 393–388 million years ago), this formation was deposited in a warm, shallow marine environment that teemed with diverse life.

These deposits preserve trilobites in remarkable three-dimensional detail, capturing anatomical features that make them both scientifically important and highly sought after by collectors. The El Ahhsr site in Foum Zguid is particularly famous for yielding exquisite Hollardops specimens with well-preserved spines, eyes, and body segments.

The Trilobite – Hollardops mesocristata

Hollardops mesocristata is a member of the order Phacopida and the family Asteropygidae, a lineage of trilobites admired for their ornate exoskeletons and distinctive features. Hollardops is well known for its large, crescent-shaped compound eyes with hundreds of calcite lenses, providing excellent vision in Devonian seas.

This species is characterised by its elongated body, prominent axial glabella, finely segmented thorax, and well-defined pygidium (tail shield). Many specimens also show subtle ornamentation across the exoskeleton, adding to their visual appeal. Hollardops trilobites are considered some of the finest examples of Moroccan trilobites, appreciated by both researchers and private collectors.

Morphological Features of this Specimen

This A-grade fossil exhibits:

• Exceptional compound eyes, showing fine detail of calcite lenses.
• Distinct cephalon with a raised glabella and finely preserved sutures.
• Thoracic segments in natural articulation, demonstrating curvature and detail.
• Well-formed pygidium, with visible segmentation.
• Three-dimensional preservation, enhanced by professional Moroccan preparation.

These traits highlight both the biological sophistication of Hollardops and the exceptional skill of the preparer.

Scientific and Collectible Importance

Hollardops mesocristata is a trilobite highly valued by collectors due to its elegant form, scientific importance, and rarity in top-grade preservation. Its compound eyes are a particularly notable feature, representing one of the most advanced visual systems of the Paleozoic era. Specimens like this provide direct evidence of the adaptations that allowed trilobites to thrive in complex marine ecosystems.

For palaeontologists, Hollardops fossils contribute to understanding Devonian biodiversity and evolutionary adaptations. For collectors, they are among the most beautiful trilobites available, representing both the artistry of natural history and the craftsmanship of ethical fossil preparation.

Key Details of this Specimen

• Species: Hollardops mesocristata (Phacopid Trilobite)
• Origin: Timrhanrhart Formation, El Ahhsr, Foum Zguid, Morocco
• Age: Middle Devonian, Eifelian Stage (~393–388 million years ago)
• Fossil Type: A-grade trilobite fossil
• Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen with Certificate of Authenticity
• Preparation: Expertly prepared by a skilled Moroccan specialist
• Exact Fossil: The specimen photographed is the one you will receive
• Sizing: Please refer to photos with 1cm scale cube for accurate measurements

This exceptional Hollardops mesocristata trilobite fossil combines exquisite preservation, scientific importance, and ethical preparation, making it a rare and highly desirable addition to any fossil collection.