Acanthoceras vergonense Ammonite Fossil Cretaceous Lower Cenomanian France Genuine Specimen with COA

Description

Acanthoceras vergonense Ammonite Fossil from Sarthe, France

This authentic ammonite fossil represents Acanthoceras vergonense, a classic species from the Lower Cenomanian stage of the Cretaceous period. Discovered in the Sarthe region of France, a locality renowned for its rich fossil deposits, this specimen offers both scientific significance and visual appeal. As with all of our fossils, it is 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photo provided shows the exact piece you will receive, complete with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate sizing reference.

Geological Age and Stratigraphy

The fossil dates to the Lower Cenomanian, approximately 100.5 to 98 million years ago, a time that marked the beginning of the Late Cretaceous. This interval was characterised by major marine transgressions, with shallow epicontinental seas spreading across Europe. Sarthe, in northwestern France, preserves extensive marine sediments from this age, including limestone and chalk beds that yield exceptionally preserved ammonites and other marine fossils. These layers provide key insights into the biodiversity and paleoecology of the Cenomanian seas.

Species and Taxonomy

Acanthoceras vergonense belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and family Acanthoceratidae. Members of the genus Acanthoceras are noted for their moderately involute shells, strong ribbing, and nodose ornamentation. These features are well developed in A. vergonense, which displays robust ribs and characteristic tubercles along the shell’s whorls. Such traits make the species instantly recognisable and important for biostratigraphic studies, as Acanthoceras species are widely used to define Cenomanian ammonite biozones.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

This specimen shows the hallmark features of the species: bold, radiating ribs that cross the whorl, nodes or tubercles positioned at regular intervals, and a compressed yet sturdy whorl structure. These adaptations not only strengthened the shell against hydrostatic pressure but also enhanced hydrodynamic performance as the ammonite navigated its marine environment. The striking ornamentation of Acanthoceras vergonense has long made it a favourite among collectors of Cretaceous ammonites.

Depositional Environment and Paleoecology

During the Cenomanian, the Sarthe region was submerged beneath a shallow, warm sea. These conditions created an ideal environment for marine life, with ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, and fish thriving in abundance. As a nektonic predator, Acanthoceras vergonense would have swum freely in the water column, preying on smaller marine animals such as crustaceans and juvenile mollusks. Its abundance in fossil assemblages suggests it was a dominant element of the mid-Cretaceous marine ecosystem.

Collector’s Value and Authenticity

This Acanthoceras vergonense ammonite fossil combines scientific importance with aesthetic value. The preservation allows for clear study of the species’ diagnostic features, making it an excellent reference specimen for both collectors and educational use. Every fossil we sell is individually photographed, so you will receive exactly the specimen shown. The scale rule in the photo provides clear sizing, and the fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity guaranteeing its status as a genuine natural specimen.

Owning this ammonite is an opportunity to hold in your hands a 100-million-year-old relic of Earth’s history, a beautifully preserved piece of natural heritage from the famous Cretaceous deposits of Sarthe, France. Perfect for collectors, paleontology enthusiasts, or as a striking natural history display piece.