Description
Catacoeloceras engeli Fossil Ammonite from Ispagnac, Lozère, France
This listing features a Catacoeloceras engeli fossil ammonite, an exceptional specimen dating to the Middle Toarcian stage of the Jurassic period. Discovered in Ispagnac, Lozère, France, this ammonite is a fine example of the beautifully preserved marine fossils from the French Toarcian deposits. The fossil photographed is the exact piece you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for precise size reference. Every specimen we offer is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Age and Setting – Middle Toarcian, Jurassic
This ammonite is from the Middle Toarcian stage, approximately 178–174 million years ago. At this time, the Ispagnac region was submerged beneath shallow seas that formed part of the extensive Tethys Ocean. Fine-grained sediments, deposited under low-energy marine conditions, preserved ammonites and other marine organisms in exquisite detail.
The Toarcian is of particular importance to palaeontologists because it coincides with the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE), a period of major global change when widespread deposition of organic-rich sediments occurred. Fossils such as Catacoeloceras engeli are invaluable for understanding the marine life that thrived during this time of ecological upheaval.
Species and Classification
- Genus: Catacoeloceras
- Species: engeli
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
Catacoeloceras is a genus within the Dactylioceratidae, a family of ammonites known for their ribbed, evolute shells and their use in Jurassic biostratigraphy. The species engeli is distinctive for its robust ribbing pattern and provides excellent reference material for both collectors and researchers.
Morphological Features
The Catacoeloceras engeli ammonite is characterised by several striking features:
- Shell form: Evolute, with earlier whorls exposed.
- Ribbing: Numerous, strong ribs running across the flanks and curving smoothly over the venter.
- Whorl profile: Rounded and robust, giving the fossil an aesthetically pleasing symmetry.
- Ornamentation: The dense ribbing creates a bold visual impression, while the suture lines provide intricate detail.
These morphological traits not only make the specimen scientifically significant but also highly attractive as a display fossil.
Stratigraphy and Biozone Importance
Catacoeloceras engeli is closely tied to specific Middle Toarcian ammonite biozones, making it a valuable index fossil. Its occurrence helps refine the stratigraphic framework of the Toarcian stage, allowing geologists to correlate marine deposits across different regions of Europe. Fossils from the French Toarcian deposits complement those from classic British localities, enriching the broader palaeontological record.
Collector and Scientific Value
- Collectors value this fossil for its rarity, bold ribbing, and provenance from Ispagnac, a classic French locality.
- Researchers and educators appreciate its role as an index fossil and its contribution to understanding Middle Toarcian ammonite diversity.
- For display, the strong ribbing and symmetrical form make it a striking centrepiece in any fossil collection.
Authenticity and Guarantee
All our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, responsibly sourced and carefully chosen. This Catacoeloceras engeli ammonite has been selected for its preservation, quality, and scientific interest. Each specimen is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, giving you complete assurance of its provenance.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Ammonite
- Species: Catacoeloceras engeli
- Geological Age: Middle Toarcian, Jurassic (~178–174 million years old)
- Locality: Ispagnac, Lozère, France
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
- Order: Ammonitida
- Condition: Natural fossil with strong ribbing and excellent preservation
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This Catacoeloceras engeli ammonite fossil from Ispagnac, Lozère, France is a scientifically significant and visually impressive specimen, making it an ideal addition for collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts of Jurassic natural history.
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