Representative ImageTrilobites
·Real Fossil
Small Enrolled Phacops Trilobite
- Real Fossil
- 390 million years
- Ships worldwide
£7.50
● In stock — dispatched within 2 working days
A tactile and evocative Devonian trilobite, preserved in its defensive 'enrolled' posture. A classic of any fossil collection. Typically 0.5-1cm.
Specimen Record
DTF-36C23751Representative image
Photographs show a typical example. Your item will be similar but not identical.
- Species
- Phacops rana (or similar species)
- Identification confidence
- Not recorded
- Age
- 390 million years
- Geological period
- Devonian
- Formation
- Alnif Formation
- Locality
- Alnif, Morocco
- Dimensions
- Not recorded
- Weight
- Not recorded
Condition & Treatment
- Repair
- Not recorded
- Restoration
- Not recorded
- Stabilisation
- Not recorded
- Polishing
- Not recorded
- Composite
- Not recorded
"Not recorded" means we hold no verified record for that detail — it is not a claim either way.
Curator Note
What distinguishes this piece is the three-dimensional relief and the integrity of the cephalon (head) and pygidium (tail). Unlike compressed fossils, this Phacops retains its original vaulted shape, showcasing the incredible complexity of ancient marine life.
At a Glance
Type
Genuine fossil
Display
Displays well on a small floating stand or within a felt-lined gem jar.
About This Fossil
This specimen features a classic Phacops trilobite in its iconic 'enrolled' position. During the Devonian period, these trilobites would curl their segmented bodies into a tight ball to protect their vulnerable soft undersides from predators, much like a modern woodlouse. The preservation of this defensive posture offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric ethology.
The specimen is characterized by its distinctive 'schizochroal' eyes, large, sophisticated visual systems with individual calcite lenses that are often still visible under magnification. The dark, mineralised exoskeleton contrasts beautifully against any light background, making it a subtle yet striking addition to any study or collection.
Formation & Preservation
These trilobites are typically found within the limestone and shale beds of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. They were preserved when rapid sedimentation events buried them instantly, often while they were in their defensive enrolled state, preventing the remains from being scattered by currents or scavengers.
What Makes This Specimen Special
What distinguishes this piece is the three-dimensional relief and the integrity of the cephalon (head) and pygidium (tail). Unlike compressed fossils, this Phacops retains its original vaulted shape, showcasing the incredible complexity of ancient marine life.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine fossil — not a replica unless clearly stated. Clearly described and honestly presented.
- You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown — see Natural Variation below.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established suppliers and known commercial sites. We do not buy from localities we know to be protected, scientifically restricted, or subject to export controls. Origin and sourcing information is shared where known.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle specimens removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Alnif, Morocco) and formation (Alnif Formation) are based on supplier information and available geological references. Identification can vary in certainty — especially for fragments — so where exact locality cannot be independently verified, we describe the formation rather than a single quarry.
Fossils are natural objects. Expect minor variation in colour, surface texture, and matrix, mineralisation and surface detail. Treatment information is shown under Condition & Treatment where it is recorded. “Not recorded” means we hold no verified record for that detail; it is not a claim that no treatment occurred.
Read our full authenticity & honest descriptions policy or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders of £50 or more. Standard £4.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48, typically 2–3 working days after dispatch).
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Within 2 working days (framed, mounted, or made-to-order pieces take 1 additional working day).
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.