Description
Catulloceras jurense Fossil Ammonite from Whitby, United Kingdom
This listing offers a rare and scientifically important Catulloceras jurense fossil ammonite, dating to the Upper Aalenian stage of the Jurassic period. Found along the fossil-rich cliffs of Whitby in Yorkshire, United Kingdom, this specimen is a striking example of a Jurassic ammonite from one of the most celebrated palaeontological regions in Europe. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for size reference. Every purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing the fossil’s genuineness and provenance.
Geological Setting – Upper Aalenian, Jurassic
This specimen comes from the Upper Aalenian stage, part of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 172–170 million years ago. During this time, much of what is now the Yorkshire coast was submerged beneath shallow epicontinental seas. Fine clays and shales were deposited on the seabed, creating the Whitby Mudstone Formation and associated strata. These environments offered ideal conditions for preserving ammonites, belemnites, and other marine life in exquisite detail.
The Upper Aalenian represents an interval of significant ammonite diversity, and fossils from this stage are crucial in refining Jurassic stratigraphy. Whitby is especially important because of its accessibility and the sheer abundance of ammonite species that can be studied there.
Species and Classification
- Genus: Catulloceras
- Species: jurense
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hammatoceratoidea
- Family: Hammatoceratidae
Catulloceras jurense is a member of the Hammatoceratidae, a family of ammonites characterised by strongly ribbed shells and robust morphology. This genus is significant for both collectors and researchers, as it represents a key lineage within the Middle Jurassic ammonite record.
Morphological Features
The Catulloceras jurense ammonite is distinguished by:
- Shell form: Strongly ribbed with an evolute coiling style, where earlier whorls remain visible.
- Ribbing: Bold, radiating ribs that continue across the venter, giving the fossil a robust and visually striking appearance.
- Whorl shape: Rounded whorls with wide spacing between ribs.
- Sutures: Complex suture patterns typical of the Hammatoceratidae, enhancing its scientific and display value.
These features highlight the evolutionary adaptations of ammonites during the Aalenian and contribute to their use in biostratigraphic studies.
Stratigraphic and Biozone Importance
Catulloceras jurense is closely associated with the Jurense Zone of the Upper Aalenian. This makes it an important index fossil for the stage, widely used in correlating Jurassic rock layers across Europe. Its occurrence provides essential evidence for understanding evolutionary trends, palaeogeography, and marine faunal turnovers during the Middle Jurassic.
Collector and Scientific Value
This specimen is significant for multiple reasons:
- Collectors value it as a rare and attractive ammonite from the classic Whitby locality.
- Researchers and educators prize it for its role as a key index species and an important representative of Middle Jurassic ammonite evolution.
- For display, its bold ribbing and robust form make it a standout fossil in any collection.
Authenticity and Guarantee
All of our fossils are responsibly sourced and are 100% genuine specimens. This Catulloceras jurense has been carefully selected for its quality and authenticity, making it both scientifically valuable and visually impressive. Every specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete peace of mind.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Ammonite
- Species: Catulloceras jurense
- Geological Age: Upper Aalenian, Middle Jurassic (~172–170 million years old)
- Locality: Whitby, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Family: Hammatoceratidae
- Order: Ammonitida
- Condition: Natural fossil with strong ribbing and robust preservation
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This Catulloceras jurense ammonite from Whitby is a scientifically important and visually impressive fossil, making it an exceptional choice for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of Jurassic natural history.
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