Reviews
Big, Fat 5.95" Phacopid (Drotops) Trilobite - Issoumour, Morocco
This is a particularly large, 5.95" long example of Drotops megalomanicus from Issoumour, Morocco. Preserved in a perfectly prone position, it is quite 3D and the compound eyes are especially impressive, retaining crisp preservation of numerous individual facets.
There is some shell weathering, particularly on the glabella and axis but it has not been restored.
There is some shell weathering, particularly on the glabella and axis but it has not been restored.
About Drotops
Drotops is a genus of large Phacopid trilobite found in Morocco. The genus includes two species: Drotops megalomanicus, known for its smoother exoskeleton, and Drotops armatus, distinguished by its spiny armor. Renowned for their impressive size, these trilobites can reach lengths of up to seven inches, with most specimens ranging between four and five inches.
One of the most striking features of Drotops trilobites is their highly detailed schizochroal eyes, which contain dozens of individual facets. In well-preserved and expertly prepared specimens, these intricate eye structures are prominently visible, offering a glimpse into the advanced visual adaptations of these ancient arthropods.
Drotops Collection Photos
A photo of the Drotops quarry at Issoumour, Morocco showing the hard limestone layers being worked.
A photo of the Drotops quarry at Issoumour, Morocco. The quarry following the horizon where this trilobites are found extends several kilometers around the mountain.
How a Drotops might be found in the field, with part of the tail exposed in the broken rock. It would then be prepared using airscribes (or air pens) and air abrasives in a process that would likely take 20+ hours for a good specimen.
Drotops is a genus of large Phacopid trilobite found in Morocco. The genus includes two species: Drotops megalomanicus, known for its smoother exoskeleton, and Drotops armatus, distinguished by its spiny armor. Renowned for their impressive size, these trilobites can reach lengths of up to seven inches, with most specimens ranging between four and five inches.
One of the most striking features of Drotops trilobites is their highly detailed schizochroal eyes, which contain dozens of individual facets. In well-preserved and expertly prepared specimens, these intricate eye structures are prominently visible, offering a glimpse into the advanced visual adaptations of these ancient arthropods.
Drotops Collection Photos
A photo of the Drotops quarry at Issoumour, Morocco showing the hard limestone layers being worked.
A photo of the Drotops quarry at Issoumour, Morocco. The quarry following the horizon where this trilobites are found extends several kilometers around the mountain.
How a Drotops might be found in the field, with part of the tail exposed in the broken rock. It would then be prepared using airscribes (or air pens) and air abrasives in a process that would likely take 20+ hours for a good specimen.
$595
SPECIES
Drotops megalomanicus
AGE
LOCATION
Issoumour, Morocco
FORMATION
Bou Dib Formation
SIZE
5.95" long
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#383216
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