British Chalk Fossil Echinoid – Echinocorys scutata gravesi | Santonian Upper Chalk Broadstairs Kent UK | Genuine Specimen with COA

Description

This listing features an authentic British Chalk fossil echinoid – Echinocorys scutata gravesi, sourced from the Upper Chalk Formation of the Santonian stage in the Late Cretaceous, collected at Broadstairs, Kent, UK. This distinctive subspecies is well-known for its larger, more robust form and higher dome when compared to the more common vulgaris form.

Fossil Type: Echinoid (Sea Urchin)

Species/Subspecies: Echinocorys scutata gravesi

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 gravesi is a less common and more prominently domed variant of the iconic chalk echinoid genus. It lived on or just beneath the seabed of the ancient Late Cretaceous seas and is commonly used in zonal and paleoecological studies of the British Upper Chalk.

• Phylum: Echinodermata
• Class: Echinoidea
• Order: Holasteroida
• Family: Holasteridae
• Genus: Echinocorys
• Subspecies: scutata gravesi
• Depositional Environment: Calm, shallow marine environment dominated by carbonate sedimentation; rich in coccoliths and planktonic debris
• Morphological Features: Thick-shelled, subglobular to high-domed test, five ambulacral petals visible from the aboral surface, well-defined oral and anal openings
• Biozone: Found in mid to late Santonian stratigraphic zones, often associated with key foraminiferal and inoceramid index fossils
• Notable: Gravesi is a biostratigraphically and taxonomically valuable form, and well-preserved specimens are relatively rare in comparison to scutata vulgaris

Why This Fossil Is Special

This specimen of Echinocorys scutata gravesi is particularly well preserved, offering exceptional detail and symmetry. Its elevated test and completeness make it ideal for collectors, display, or study. Specimens from Broadstairs are highly regarded by chalk fossil collectors.

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

Secure a rare and robust example of Britain’s Cretaceous marine life with this Echinocorys scutata gravesi fossil echinoid from the Upper Chalk of Broadstairs, Kent—a lasting reminder of Earth’s marine heritage from over 85 million years ago.