Aioloceras Ammonite Fossil Aptian Cretaceous Madagascar Genuine Certified Specimen

Description

Authentic Aioloceras Ammonite Fossil from Madagascar

This listing offers a genuine Aioloceras ammonite fossil from the Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous period, discovered in Madagascar. Dating back approximately 125–113 million years, this exceptional specimen is a fascinating piece of Earth’s ancient marine history. Each fossil is carefully chosen, professionally prepared, and photographed so you can see the exact ammonite you will receive. For size reference, the accompanying photos include a 1 cm scale cube. Every specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring both quality and provenance.

Geological Context and Age

The Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous was a period marked by rising sea levels and widespread shallow marine environments, particularly around the southern continents. Madagascar, at this time, was already isolated from Africa, resulting in unique and richly fossiliferous marine deposits. These sediments have preserved ammonites in remarkable condition, with Aioloceras being one of the distinctive genera from this era. Fossils from this formation provide valuable insights into Cretaceous marine life and the evolutionary pathways of cephalopods.

Scientific Classification

• Class: Cephalopoda
• Subclass: Ammonoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Deshayesitoidea
• Family: Deshayesitidae
• Genus: Aioloceras

Belonging to the same broad family as other Aptian ammonites, Aioloceras is an important genus used by palaeontologists in the correlation of Aptian strata. Its occurrence in Madagascar provides a clear record of ammonite diversity in the southern hemisphere during the Cretaceous.

Morphological Features

The Aioloceras ammonite is recognised by its moderately involute shell, often displaying elegant ribbing across the flanks and extending toward the venter. These ribs and growth lines reflect the dynamic development of the shell as the animal grew. The suture patterns of the shell are intricate, a hallmark of ammonites, representing the internal partitions that provided structural strength and buoyancy control. This specimen highlights the natural beauty and complexity of ammonite design, making it both scientifically significant and visually striking.

Palaeontological Importance

Ammonites such as Aioloceras are valuable as index fossils, allowing geologists to date and correlate marine sediments across wide regions. Their relatively rapid evolutionary turnover means they are highly precise tools for identifying geological horizons. Fossils from Madagascar are particularly sought after, as the island’s unique depositional environment preserved them in exquisite condition. Specimens like this help palaeontologists reconstruct the biodiversity of Cretaceous seas and provide evidence of evolutionary adaptations in cephalopods.

Collector and Display Value

This Aioloceras ammonite fossil is both a scientific treasure and a beautiful collectable. Its natural form and distinctive ribbing make it a superb addition to any fossil collection, display cabinet, or educational setting. Collectors value these specimens for their rarity, preservation, and their link to a time when ammonites thrived in warm, shallow seas. Displayed on its own or as part of a broader collection, this ammonite serves as a remarkable reminder of Earth’s deep history.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. This carefully chosen Aioloceras ammonite fossil from Madagascar is a rare and captivating piece that brings the ancient oceans of the Early Cretaceous directly into your hands.