Giant Phacopid Trilobite Drotops Megalomanicus

This is a fine example of the giant phacopid trilobite from Morocco, Drotops megalomanicus often incorrectly referred to as a Phacops. These have been quarried in large numbers for decades but many are crudely prepared and ones of this quality can be difficult to obtain.

One of the most striking features of this trilobites is the large schizochroal (multi-faceted) eyes which would have given it a nearly 360 degree field of vision. It also has a very bumpy exoskeleton, in particularly on it's head.

This particular specimen is 5 1/2 inches in length and has been prepared on a raised platform of matrix so that it displays very well. It does not have any significant restoration work done to it and displays the distinctive multi-faceted eyes very well.

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 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.
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 and air abrasives a process that would likely take 20+ hours for a good specimen..
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 and air abrasives a process that would likely take 20+ hours for a good specimen..


SOLD
DETAILS
SPECIES
Drotops megalomanicus
LOCATION
Issoumour, Morocco
FORMATION
Bou Dib Formation
SIZE
5.4" long
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#1995
GUARANTEE
We guarantee the authenticity of all of our
specimens. Read more about our
Authenticity Guarantee.