Description
This listing features an exceptional A-grade British Chalk fossil echinoid – Echinocorys scutata striatum, collected from the Upper Chalk Formation of the Santonian stage in the Late Cretaceous, at Broadstairs, Kent, UK. This rare and well-preserved subspecies is notable for its subtle yet diagnostic striations that distinguish it from other Echinocorys forms.
Fossil Type: Echinoid (Sea Urchin)
Species/Subspecies: Echinocorys scutata striatum
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 (See photo for full sizing details)
Specimen: You will receive the exact item shown in the photos
Authenticity: All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity
Geological and Paleontological Context
Echinocorys scutata striatum is a subtly ornamented form of the well-known Echinocorys genus, characterised by faint surface striations visible under favourable lighting. This subspecies is found in Santonian chalk beds and reflects evolutionary adaptation to infaunal living in soft sedimentary marine environments.
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Holasteroida
- Family: Holasteridae
- Genus: Echinocorys
- Subspecies: scutata striatum
- Depositional Environment: Quiet, shallow marine carbonate platform dominated by coccolith deposition; excellent preservation conditions for echinoids
- Morphological Features: Subglobular to slightly domed test with fine striations on the surface, well-formed ambulacral petals, and centrally located periproct and peristome; striations may assist in subspecies-level identification
- Biozone: Occurs within established Santonian biostratigraphic intervals; often found alongside inoceramid bivalves and foraminifera used in chalk zonation
- Notable: This subspecies is of particular interest for evolutionary and stratigraphic research in Late Cretaceous marine invertebrates
Why This Fossil Is Special
This specimen of Echinocorys scutata striatum is a rare and desirable example from the Kent coast. Its distinct surface ornamentation and strong preservation make it a fine representative of Santonian echinoids, suitable for collectors, researchers, and educational use.
Why Buy From Us?
- 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
- You will receive the exact specimen shown in the listing photos
- Ethically collected from reputable geological sites in the UK
- Ideal for collectors, educators, museums, or natural history enthusiasts
Bring home a rare and elegant piece of Britain’s fossil heritage with this Echinocorys scutata striatum fossil echinoid from the Upper Chalk of Broadstairs, Kent—a scientifically significant sea urchin from over 85 million years ago.
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