Description
Authentic Alocolytoceras Fossil Ammonite from Morocco
This listing features a striking Alocolytoceras fossil ammonite originating from the Toarcian Stage of the Early Jurassic Period, dating back approximately 182–174 million years. Discovered in the fossil-rich beds of Bakrit, Morocco, this ammonite is a fine example of Early Jurassic cephalopods. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference. Every fossil we offer is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete buyer confidence.
Geological Significance
The Toarcian Stage of the Early Jurassic was a dynamic time in Earth’s history, marked by significant evolutionary events, including the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, which influenced marine ecosystems globally. The Bakrit region of Morocco preserves an outstanding record of these marine environments, producing beautifully preserved ammonites that are highly prized by collectors and researchers.
These fossils formed in shallow marine basins along the margins of the ancient Tethys Ocean, where fluctuating oxygen levels and fine sediment deposition provided ideal conditions for exceptional fossil preservation. Ammonites such as Alocolytoceras are widely used as index fossils, meaning they help geologists date and correlate Jurassic rock layers across different parts of the world.
Scientific Classification
- Genus: Alocolytoceras
- Family: Lytoceratidae
- Superfamily: Lytoceratoidea
- Order: Ammonitida
- Class: Cephalopoda
- Age: Toarcian Stage, Early Jurassic (~182–174 million years ago)
- Locality: Bakrit, Morocco
Morphological Features
Members of the genus Alocolytoceras are notable for their evolute shells, where the whorls are clearly visible and not heavily overlapped. Their fine ribbing and complex suture lines are characteristic features of the Lytoceratidae family, renowned for their ornate shell structures. The hydrodynamic shape of these ammonites suggests they were strong and active swimmers, well-adapted to pursuing prey in open marine waters.
The distinct shell morphology of Alocolytoceras makes it an attractive fossil for collectors, as well as an important specimen for paleontological study. The elegant ribbing and overall shell form provide insight into both evolutionary adaptations and the ecological diversity of Early Jurassic cephalopods.
Paleoenvironment and Ecology
During the Jurassic, the Bakrit region was submerged under warm, shallow seas connected to the wider Tethys Ocean. These seas were teeming with life, including ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, marine reptiles, and various invertebrates. As a cephalopod, Alocolytoceras likely lived as a predatory nektonic animal, feeding on smaller marine creatures such as crustaceans and small fish.
Their chambered shells functioned as buoyancy devices, allowing them to control depth efficiently and thrive as agile hunters. Their abundance in Jurassic seas reflects their evolutionary success, and today they remain among the most significant fossils for reconstructing marine paleoenvironments.
Collectability and Display
This Alocolytoceras fossil ammonite from Morocco is a specimen of both scientific importance and visual beauty. Its age, preservation, and rarity make it a valuable addition for collectors, educators, or anyone interested in natural history.
- Specimen: Alocolytoceras fossil ammonite
- Geological Age: Toarcian, Early Jurassic (~182–174 million years old)
- Origin: Bakrit, Morocco
- Scale Reference: 1 cm cube shown in photographs
- Authenticity: Supplied with Certificate of Authenticity
- Condition: The exact fossil in the photos is the one you will receive
This genuine ammonite fossil offers a direct connection to the ancient seas of the Jurassic Period, preserved for over 180 million years and now ready to be admired in your collection.
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