4.2" Drotops Trilobites With Fantastic Preparation - Mrakib, Morocco

This is a 4.2" long (if oustretched) Drotops megalomanicus trilobite quarried from Mrakib, Morocco. It's very 3D with good eye facet preservation. It has wonderful shell preservation and the preparation is top notch.

About Drotops

Drotops is a genus of large Phacopid trilobites 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 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 (or air pens) and air abrasives in 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 (or air pens) and air abrasives in a process that would likely take 20+ hours for a good specimen.


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DETAILS
SPECIES
Drotops megalomanicus
LOCATION
Mrakib, Morocco
FORMATION
Bou Dib Formation
SIZE
4.2" long (if oustretched)
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#174895
GUARANTEE
We guarantee the authenticity of all of our specimens.