Description
Catacoeloceras densicostatum Fossil Ammonite from Tourondous, France
This listing presents a Catacoeloceras densicostatum fossil ammonite, a striking specimen from the Toarcian stage of the Jurassic period. Discovered in Tourondous, France, this ammonite is a fine representation of the rich Jurassic marine faunas of the Tethyan realm. The specimen photographed is the exact piece you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate size reference. Every fossil we sell is 100% genuine and will be supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Setting – Toarcian, Jurassic
This ammonite dates to the Toarcian stage of the Early Jurassic, approximately 182–174 million years ago. At that time, France formed part of the Tethys Ocean margin, a shallow, warm sea that supported a diverse marine ecosystem. Sediments of mudstones, shales, and limestones deposited in these conditions created superb preservation potential, capturing ammonites in fine detail.
The Toarcian is a particularly significant stage due to the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE), during which large amounts of organic-rich sediment were deposited. Fossils such as Catacoeloceras densicostatum are important for reconstructing palaeoenvironments and refining stratigraphic frameworks.
Species and Taxonomy
- Genus: Catacoeloceras
- Species: densicostatum
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
Catacoeloceras is a well-recognised genus within the Dactylioceratidae, a family noted for their robust, ribbed shells and importance as index fossils. The species densicostatum is distinctive for its dense ribbing, which contributes to its name and makes it easily recognisable among Toarcian ammonites.
Morphological Features
The Catacoeloceras densicostatum ammonite shows several key features:
- Shell form: Evolute, with earlier whorls exposed.
- Ribbing: Numerous closely spaced ribs cover the whorl surface, bifurcating and crossing the venter cleanly.
- Whorl profile: Rounded, with strong ornamentation giving the shell a powerful appearance.
- Ornamentation: The dense ribbing and complex suture lines create an attractive and scientifically significant specimen.
These features make this ammonite both visually impressive and highly valuable for palaeontological study.
Stratigraphic and Biozone Importance
Catacoeloceras densicostatum is associated with the Toarcian ammonite biozones, where it acts as an important index species. Its presence helps geologists correlate rock layers across Europe, particularly in Tethyan successions. This stratigraphic role adds considerable scientific value to the fossil.
Collector and Scientific Value
This specimen is highly prized for its rarity and provenance:
- Collectors will appreciate its dense ribbing and origin from Tourondous, France, a locality less often represented in private collections.
- Researchers and educators value its use as a biozone marker and its role in Toarcian stratigraphy.
- For display, its bold ribbing and aesthetic shell structure make it a stunning addition to any fossil collection.
Authenticity and Guarantee
All of our fossils are responsibly sourced and are 100% genuine specimens. This Catacoeloceras densicostatum ammonite has been carefully selected for its quality, preservation, and rarity. Each purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity, providing full assurance of its provenance.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Ammonite
- Species: Catacoeloceras densicostatum
- Geological Age: Toarcian, Jurassic (~182–174 million years old)
- Locality: Tourondous, France
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
- Order: Ammonitida
- Condition: Natural fossil with dense ribbing and excellent preservation
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This Catacoeloceras densicostatum ammonite fossil from Tourondous, France is both scientifically significant and visually striking, making it an outstanding addition for collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts of Jurassic natural history.
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