Nice, 3.3" Morocconites Trilobite - Ofaten, Morocco

Here is an exceptionally well prepared specimen of one of the more unusual species of trilobites. It is Morocconites malladoides quarried from the deposits near Ofaten, Morocco. This member of the Phacopida trilobites and has a very defining feature, a long pointed rostrum (snout) coming off of it's head. It's unclear what purpose this rostrum would have served, but it could have potentially been used to help it dig through the mud.

The specimen is 3.3" long which is quite large for the species and has a natural multi-toned coloration. The orangish colorations are due to either being in close proximity to the surface of the rock (weathering) or a fault causing water to leach minerals from the shell. Excellent eye facet detail. A beautiful specimen.