Catacoeloceras crassum Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Whitby Runswich Bay UK Genuine Specimen

Description

Authentic Catacoeloceras crassum Fossil Ammonite from Whitby, UK

This striking Catacoeloceras crassum fossil ammonite comes from the world-renowned Jurassic deposits of Runswich Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom. Dating back to the Early Jurassic period, approximately 182 million years ago, this specimen provides a unique window into the life of ancient seas. Each fossil we offer is carefully selected and photographed, with scale provided for accuracy, ensuring that you receive the exact specimen pictured. Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, this ammonite is a genuine piece of Britain’s deep geological heritage.

Geological Setting and Age

This ammonite was preserved in the Middle Lias strata of the Whitby Mudstone Formation, deposited during the Toarcian stage of the Lower Jurassic. Runswich Bay is famous for its richly fossiliferous cliffs and shorelines, which have been studied for centuries and continue to yield important scientific finds. The Catacoeloceras crassum occurs within the bifrons zone, an internationally recognised biozone used to correlate Jurassic sequences across Europe. This makes the species not only a desirable collector’s fossil but also a key biostratigraphic marker in palaeontology.

Taxonomy and Classification

Catacoeloceras crassum belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Hildoceratoidea, and family Hildoceratidae. These ammonites were first described in the 19th century and remain important index fossils for the Toarcian. The species is distinguished within its genus by its robust morphology and distinctive ribbing pattern, making it a sought-after example for both collectors and researchers.

Morphological Features

The shell of Catacoeloceras crassum is typically involute, with tightly coiled whorls and a compressed, suboval cross-section. One of the most striking features of this ammonite is its bold ribbing: strong, widely spaced ribs sweep across the flanks and extend to the keel. The keel itself is well-developed and sharp, running along the outer margin of the shell. This combination of features makes C. crassum visually distinctive, with a robust yet elegant form. Such details reflect the evolutionary adaptations of ammonites in the Toarcian seas and contribute to their ongoing scientific and collector appeal.

Palaeoenvironment and Preservation

During the Early Jurassic, Whitby and Runswich Bay were part of a shallow epicontinental sea that supported an abundance of marine life. Ammonites such as Catacoeloceras crassum were nektonic predators, feeding on smaller marine organisms while navigating the open waters. Rapid burial within fine marine muds allowed for exceptional fossilisation, preserving even fine rib detail in many specimens. Fossils from this area are especially prized because of their sharp definition and historical connection to Britain’s fossil heritage.

Scientific and Collector Value

The importance of Catacoeloceras crassum lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its role as an index fossil for the bifrons zone. Palaeontologists rely on this species to establish precise geological dating and correlations across widespread rock sequences. For collectors, its distinctive ribbing and robust form make it a centrepiece specimen, while for students of geology, it represents an essential fossil for understanding Jurassic stratigraphy.

Authenticity and Display

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, with scale markings of 1 cm squares or cubes for accurate sizing. This ensures complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.

This Catacoeloceras crassum fossil ammonite from Runswich Bay, Whitby, combines scientific importance with striking natural beauty, making it an exceptional addition to any fossil collection or educational display.