British Chalk Fossil Echinoid – Echinocorys scutata gravesi – Santonian Cretaceous, Broadstairs UK

Description

This listing features a high-quality British Chalk Fossil Echinoid, scientifically known as Echinocorys scutata gravesi. This fossil originates from the Santonian Stage of the Cretaceous Period, and was collected at Broadstairs, Kent, UK, an esteemed locality along the southeastern chalk coast of England.

Taxonomic Classification:

• Order: Holasteroida
• Superfamily: Echinocorythoidea
• Family: Echinocorythidae
• Genus and Species: Echinocorys scutata gravesi

Geological Context:

• Period: Cretaceous
• Stage: Santonian (Late Cretaceous)
• Formation: Upper Chalk Formation
• Depositional Environment: Marine shelf environment. The chalk was deposited in a warm, shallow sea that covered much of what is now Europe during the Late Cretaceous, composed largely of coccolith-rich calcareous ooze accumulating slowly on the seafloor.

Morphological Features:

• A slightly elongated, sub-rectangular to domed test (shell), differing from other Echinocorys morphotypes by its proportion and surface profile
• Distinct bilateral symmetry with sunken ambulacra and finely tuberculated surface
• Well-defined periproct and peristome features with posterior sloping
• Adapted for semi-infaunal life, often found partially buried in carbonate-rich sediment

Notable Significance:

• The gravesi morphotype represents a distinct form within the Echinocorys scutata species group and is notable for its specific stratigraphic and geographic distribution.
• Used in biostratigraphic zonation and environmental reconstructions of Late Cretaceous chalk seas.

Locality:

• Broadstairs, Kent, UK – an important fossil site within the English Upper Chalk exposures, known for producing well-preserved echinoid fossils.

Presentation & Authenticity:

All of our fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The listing includes actual photographs of the exact specimen you will receive. Please note that the scale cube = 1cm, and full sizing is visible in the photo provided.

This is a carefully chosen, scientifically significant fossil specimen, ideal for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of British palaeontology and marine Cretaceous life. A unique glimpse into Earth’s ancient seas from over 85 million years ago.