Description
Authentic Reedops Trilobite – A Grade Enrolled Specimen
Offered here is a superb Reedops trilobite fossil, preserved in a classic enrolled position from the Laatchana beds of Hamar Laghdad, Morocco, dating to the Devonian Period. Enrolled trilobites are particularly desirable among collectors, as this curled defensive posture offers a fascinating glimpse into the survival strategies of these ancient arthropods. This is an A-grade specimen, carefully selected for its detail, authenticity, and visual appeal.
The fossil you see photographed is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube included for accurate sizing. All of our fossils are 100% genuine and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Context – Devonian of Morocco
The Devonian Period (419–359 million years ago) is often called the “Age of Fishes,” but it was also a golden era for trilobites. The Hamar Laghdad escarpment in Morocco is world-renowned for its exceptional preservation of trilobites within its marine limestones. This region once lay beneath warm, shallow seas teeming with life, where fine sediment captured extraordinary detail in the exoskeletons of marine organisms.
The Laatchana locality has produced some of the finest Reedops specimens ever found, preserved in limestone nodules that, when expertly prepared, reveal their remarkable morphology. Fossils from this site are highly prized by both private collectors and museums.
The Species – Reedops
Reedops is a member of the order Phacopida and family Phacopidae, closely related to the well-known genus Phacops. These trilobites are distinguished by their:
- Schizochroal compound eyes, each containing large, separate calcite lenses, providing superb vision.
- Smooth, rounded glabella (central head region) with distinctive lobes.
- Well-segmented thorax, allowing flexibility and ease of enrollment.
- A finely sculptured pygidium (tail shield) with detailed ridges and ornamentation.
This enrolled example demonstrates the trilobite’s natural defensive behaviour, curling tightly into a ball to protect its softer underside from predators, much like modern pill bugs.
Preparation and Ethical Sourcing
This fossil has been expertly prepared by a trusted Moroccan specialist using precision tools to carefully reveal the intricate surface details of the exoskeleton. The high-quality preparation enhances both scientific study and display value.
Importantly, the sale of this fossil supports local Moroccan families who have specialised in fossil collecting and preparation for generations. Our commitment ensures that all fossils are ethically sourced, sustainably handled, and traded responsibly, providing a fair livelihood for skilled artisans while protecting the integrity of paleontological heritage.
Scientific and Collectible Value
Enrolled trilobites hold special scientific interest as they showcase behavioural evidence rather than just skeletal remains. This Reedops specimen illustrates the evolutionary adaptations trilobites developed for survival in a predatory marine environment.
For collectors, Reedops trilobites represent one of the most appealing genera from Morocco due to their elegant form, large eyes, and well-preserved detail. Enrolled examples are significantly rarer, making them highly collectible display pieces.
Key Details of This Specimen
- Species: Reedops sp.
- Order: Phacopida
- Family: Phacopidae
- Age: Devonian Period (~390 million years ago)
- Locality: Laatchana, Hamar Laghdad, Morocco
- Fossil Type: Enrolled trilobite (A-grade)
- Authenticity: 100% genuine with Certificate of Authenticity
- Preparation: Professionally hand-prepared by a Moroccan specialist
- Display Quality: Natural enrolled defensive posture with excellent detail
- Scale Reference: 1cm cube included in images
This Reedops enrolled trilobite fossil is a rare and scientifically valuable example of Devonian life, combining natural beauty, exceptional preservation, and ethical sourcing. A striking addition to any fossil collection.






Reviews
There are no reviews yet.