Description
This is a fine-quality, A-grade fossil specimen of Echinocorys scutata depressula, a subspecies of sea urchin from the Upper Chalk Formation, dated to the Santonian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, collected from the fossil-rich coastal site of Broadstairs, Kent, UK. This distinct form is flatter than other Echinocorys variants, making it a valuable addition to any echinoid or marine invertebrate fossil collection.
Fossil Type: Echinoid (Sea Urchin)
Species/Subspecies: Echinocorys scutata depressula
Geological Period: Late Cretaceous (~86.3 to 83.6 million years ago)
Geological Stage: Santonian
Formation: Upper Chalk (Chalk Group)
Location: Broadstairs, Kent, United Kingdom
Scale Rule: Squares/Cube = 1cm (Please refer to photo for exact sizing)
Specimen: The exact specimen shown in the listing photo is what you will receive
Authenticity: All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity
Geological and Paleontological Information
Echinocorys scutata depressula represents a distinct subspecies of the well-known chalk echinoid, notable for its depressed (flattened) profile and broad, slightly lower dome. These echinoids thrived in soft chalk marine seafloors, where they lived as infaunal deposit feeders.
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Holasteroida
- Family: Holasteridae
- Genus: Echinocorys
- Subspecies: scutata depressula
- Depositional Environment: Quiet, low-energy marine shelf; deposition of coccolith-rich chalk created ideal conditions for fossilisation of echinoids and other invertebrates
- Morphological Features: Flattened, oval test (shell) with well-defined ambulacral petals; peristome and periproct typically located on flattened oral surface; delicate striae sometimes preserved
- Biozone: Likely falls within mid to late Santonian ammonite or inoceramid biozones; important for stratigraphic correlation in UK chalk studies
- Notable: This subspecies is less commonly encountered than scutata scutata and offers a refined morphotype for comparative echinoid studies
Why This Fossil is Special
A beautifully preserved flattened echinoid fossil from one of Britain’s most iconic Cretaceous formations, Echinocorys scutata depressula is an excellent study specimen and a visually striking display fossil. Its low profile and complete preservation make it a particularly collectible example.
Why Buy From Us?
- 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
- You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photos
- Carefully selected from reputable UK fossil sites
- Perfect for fossil collectors, paleontology educators, and museum-quality display
Bring home an elegant piece of British geological history with this Echinocorys scutata depressula echinoid fossil from the Santonian Upper Chalk of Broadstairs, Kent—a well-preserved marine treasure from over 85 million years ago.
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