5.5″ rare fossil belemnite – belemnites explanatus, kellaways beds, callovian, jurassic, latton, swindon, uk – genuine specimen with coa

Description

This is a rare 5.5-inch Belemnites explanatus belemnite fossil from the Kellaways Beds, Callovian stage of the Jurassic period, discovered in Latton, Swindon, United Kingdom. Belemnites were extinct marine cephalopods related to modern squid and cuttlefish. Unlike ammonites, belemnites had an internal shell known as the guard, which fossilised over millions of years, leaving behind well-preserved, bullet-shaped remains.

Geological Context

This fossil originates from the Kellaways Beds, a Middle Jurassic sedimentary formation within the Oxford Clay Group. The Callovian stage (approximately 163-166 million years ago) was a time when shallow marine environments dominated much of what is now the UK. These conditions allowed for the exceptional preservation of marine life, including ammonites, marine reptiles, and belemnites like Explanatus.

The Kellaways Beds are divided into the Kellaways Sand Member (a sandy marine deposit) and the Kellaways Clay Member (a more fossiliferous silty clay). This belemnite was preserved in these marine sediments, providing a unique glimpse into Jurassic marine ecosystems.

Fossil Type & Species Information

Belemnites, like Explanatus, were active predatory cephalopods that swam in Jurassic seas. They had a torpedo-shaped body and a calcified internal rostrum (guard), which provided balance and stability in the water. Unlike modern squid, they had no suckers but instead used small hooks on their arms to catch prey.

Key characteristics of Belemnites explanatus belemnites include:

• A robust, elongated guard with a slightly tapered, conical form
• Calcitic preservation, replacing the original aragonite shell material
• Fine growth lines and surface textures, which can be seen on well-preserved specimens

Key Features:

• Authentic Explanatus fossil belemnite
• Size: 5.5 inches in length
• Age: Approximately 163-166 million years old (Callovian, Jurassic)
• Geological Formation: Kellaways Beds, Oxford Clay Group
• Origin: Latton, Swindon, United Kingdom
• Distinctive bullet-shaped guard with natural surface features
• From the Alice Purnell Collection, one of the largest ammonite and fossil collections in the world
• 100 percent genuine specimen with Certificate of Authenticity

Size & Condition

• Scale Rule / Cube = 1cm – Please refer to the photos for accurate sizing.
• This fossil has been professionally prepared, preserving its natural details.

Why Collect Belemnites?

Belemnites are valuable additions to any fossil collection due to their role as important index fossils, aiding in the dating of Jurassic and Cretaceous rock layers. Their unique evolutionary adaptations make them a fascinating group within cephalopod history.

All of our fossils are guaranteed genuine and securely packaged for worldwide shipping.