Catacoeloceras confectum Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Lower Pliensbachian Whitby UK

Description

Catacoeloceras confectum Fossil Ammonite from Whitby, North Yorkshire

This listing offers a rare and beautifully preserved Catacoeloceras confectum fossil ammonite, dating to the Lower Pliensbachian stage of the Jurassic period. Discovered at Whitby on the Yorkshire coast of the United Kingdom, this ammonite represents one of the most scientifically significant fossils from the Early Jurassic seas. The specimen photographed is the exact one you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for precise size reference. All of our fossils are 100% genuine and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Setting – Lower Pliensbachian, Jurassic

This ammonite is from the Lower Pliensbachian stage, approximately 190–183 million years ago. During this time, much of the Whitby area was submerged beneath warm epicontinental seas. Sedimentation of fine-grained mudstones and shales created the famous Whitby Mudstone Formation, a geological unit renowned worldwide for its superb preservation of ammonites, belemnites, marine reptiles, and other marine fauna.

The Lower Pliensbachian was a period of great evolutionary diversity among ammonites, and Catacoeloceras confectum is an important example of these faunal changes. Fossils from this stage help palaeontologists reconstruct Jurassic marine ecosystems and understand the development of ammonite lineages.

Species and Classification

• Genus: Catacoeloceras
• Species: confectum
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Eoderoceratoidea
• Family: Dactylioceratidae

Catacoeloceras confectum belongs to the Dactylioceratidae, a family of ammonites noted for their ribbed, evolute shells and importance as biostratigraphic markers. Members of this family are crucial for defining biozones within the Pliensbachian stage, making them scientifically important as well as visually appealing.

Morphological Features

The Catacoeloceras confectum ammonite displays distinctive and attractive features:

• Shell form: Evolute, with exposed inner whorls clearly visible.
• Ribbing: Strong, radiating ribs extend across the shell, often bifurcating as they approach the venter.
• Whorl profile: Rounded, with a sturdy and well-developed shape.
• Sutures: Intricate and characteristic of the Dactylioceratidae lineage, enhancing both scientific and aesthetic value.

These features make this ammonite highly recognisable and desirable for collectors, offering both visual beauty and palaeontological significance.

Stratigraphic and Biozone Importance

Catacoeloceras confectum is associated with the Lower Pliensbachian succession and occurs in specific biozones that allow geologists to date and correlate rock sequences across Europe. Its presence helps to establish a reliable stratigraphic framework, highlighting its importance as an index fossil.

Collector and Scientific Value

• Collectors will appreciate this ammonite for its rarity, striking ribbing, and provenance from the world-famous Whitby locality.
• Researchers and educators value it for its biostratigraphic role and as a representative of Early Jurassic ammonite diversity.
• Display enthusiasts will admire its aesthetic form and bold ribbing, making it an eye-catching centrepiece in any fossil collection.

Authenticity and Guarantee

Every fossil we sell is 100% genuine and responsibly sourced. This Catacoeloceras confectum has been carefully chosen for its preservation and authenticity. Each specimen is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, giving you complete confidence in its provenance and quality.

Key Information at a Glance

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Species: Catacoeloceras confectum
• Geological Age: Lower Pliensbachian, Jurassic (~190–183 million years old)
• Locality: Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
• Family: Dactylioceratidae
• Order: Ammonitida
• Condition: Natural fossil with strong ribbing and excellent preservation
• Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity

This Catacoeloceras confectum ammonite from Whitby is a rare and scientifically important fossil, offering collectors, educators, and palaeontology enthusiasts an authentic piece of Britain’s Jurassic heritage.