Giant trilobites and Other Middle Ordovician Invertebrate Fossils from the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark, Portugal

Abstract

The giant Ordovician trilobites from the Canelas quarry constitute the most iconic sign of identity of the Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark at an international level. Palaeontological studies determined the importance of this fossil locality for studying aspects of the social behavior of these marine arthropods and their interactions with other represented invertebrate fossil groups. Although part of the famous ‘gigantism’ of the fossils represented in the slate quarry is due to tectonic expansion, which is responsible for one-third of the outstanding size of the fossils, there is no doubt that this locality, sometimes considered as a fossil lagerstätte, has a great scientific interest and represents a unique international reference among the geological heritage of Portugal. The construction of an on-site museum and the establishment of a geotrail around the quarry have turned this geosite into an example of cooperation between extractive industry, education, science and sustainable development. The formal partnership established with the AGA – Arouca Geopark Association reinforces the projection of this geosite, allowing its disclosure in exhibitions and educational programs, as well as the collaboration with the scientific community.