Description
Authentic Morocanites malladoides Trilobite – Morocco
This listing features a beautifully preserved Morocanites malladoides trilobite fossil, graded A for quality and authenticity. Originating from the Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian (approx. 393–388 million years ago), this specimen was discovered at Jbel Oufatene, Morocco, one of the world’s most renowned trilobite localities. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube for precise size reference. Every specimen we sell is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring both scientific reliability and collector confidence.
This trilobite has been expertly prepared by a trusted Moroccan fossil specialist with many years of experience in fossil cleaning and presentation. Their careful craftsmanship highlights the intricate details of the trilobite without compromising its natural form. By acquiring this piece, you are directly supporting ethical and sustainable fossil practices that provide fair compensation for local preparers and safe working conditions.
Geological Context – Jbel Oufatene, Morocco
The fossil originates from the Eifelian Stage of the Middle Devonian, a time when Morocco was submerged beneath shallow, warm seas rich in marine biodiversity. The region of Jbel Oufatene is world-famous for yielding exceptionally preserved trilobites, corals, ammonoids, and brachiopods.
These ancient seabeds provided the perfect depositional environment for fossilisation, with fine carbonate sediments encapsulating marine life in remarkable three-dimensional detail. As a result, trilobites from this locality are some of the most sought-after specimens in both private and academic collections.
The Trilobite – Morocanites malladoides
Morocanites malladoides belongs to the order Phacopida and family Phacopidae. This genus is particularly well-known for its striking compound eyes, cephalic structure, and thoracic articulation. Morocanites trilobites are notable for their evolutionary position within the Phacopids, a group that developed some of the most advanced visual systems in the Paleozoic era.
Key features of Morocanites malladoides include:
- Large compound eyes with calcite lenses, enabling precise vision in Devonian seas.
- Prominent glabella (central head lobe), giving the cephalon its distinctive shape.
- Thoracic segments with natural articulation and curvature.
- Well-formed pygidium (tail shield) displaying segmented structure.
- Fine exoskeletal details, including ornamentation visible under close inspection.
These traits illustrate both its evolutionary adaptations and its role as an active seafloor dweller.
Morphological Features of the Specimen
This A-grade specimen demonstrates:
- Complete cephalon, thorax, and pygidium, preserved in full articulation.
- Well-defined compound eyes, showcasing individual lens structures.
- Exoskeletal ornamentation, highlighted by careful preparation.
- Three-dimensional preservation, allowing natural depth and detail.
- Distinctive body curvature, providing a lifelike appearance.
The preparation enhances these natural features, making the fossil both visually impressive and scientifically valuable.
Scientific and Collectible Importance
Morocanites trilobites are highly prized by collectors and researchers alike. Their well-preserved eyes and distinctive morphology provide crucial insights into trilobite evolution, Devonian marine ecosystems, and arthropod diversity.
For collectors, Morocanites malladoides represents an iconic Moroccan trilobite, admired for its aesthetic beauty, rarity, and scientific importance. Its presence in any collection highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of the Devonian seas and the exceptional preservation conditions of Jbel Oufatene.
Key Details of this Specimen
- Species: Morocanites malladoides (Phacopid Trilobite)
- Origin: Jbel Oufatene, Morocco
- Age: Middle Devonian, Eifelian Stage (~393–388 million years ago)
- Fossil Type: A-grade complete trilobite fossil
- Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
- Preparation: Expertly prepared by a skilled Moroccan specialist
- Exact Fossil: The photographed specimen is the one you will receive
- Sizing: Please refer to photographs with 1cm scale cube for accurate measurements
This Morocanites malladoides A-grade trilobite fossil is a remarkable piece of natural history, ethically prepared and scientifically significant, making it a standout addition to any fossil collection.






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