Clavilithes pinus Fossil Gastropod Eocene Barton Beds Barton on Sea Hampshire

Description

Authentic Clavilithes pinus Fossil Gastropod from Barton-on-Sea

Presented here is a genuine Clavilithes pinus fossil gastropod, collected from the renowned Barton Beds at Barton-on-Sea, Hampshire, UK, one of Britain’s most important Eocene fossil localities. The Barton Beds are internationally recognised for their rich and diverse marine mollusc assemblages, making specimens from this formation highly desirable to collectors and researchers alike. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, and full sizing details are clearly shown in the photos.

This fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, offering long-term confidence in provenance and collectability.

Discovery, Provenance, and Preparation

This specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 22 December 2025 during fieldwork at Barton-on-Sea. Following recovery, the fossil was cleaned, carefully prepared, and treated by Alison, ensuring the shell form and surface detail are well presented while preserving the fossil’s natural character. Fossils collected and prepared in-house with documented provenance provide an added level of trust and transparency for collectors.

Geological Formation and Age

The fossil originates from the Barton Beds, dating to the Eocene Epoch, approximately 41–38 million years ago, during the Bartonian Stage. These sediments were deposited in a warm, shallow marine environment during a period of globally elevated temperatures known as the Eocene climatic optimum. The Barton Beds are composed primarily of sands and clays laid down in nearshore marine conditions and are famous for producing exceptionally diverse and well-preserved gastropods and bivalves.

Species and Scientific Classification

Clavilithes pinus is an extinct marine gastropod belonging to the Order Neogastropoda, Superfamily Muricoidea, and Family Fasciolariidae. This species is characteristic of the Eocene marine faunas of southern England and is frequently cited in scientific and historical literature relating to the Barton Beds. Specimens from Barton-on-Sea are especially well studied, making this fossil both scientifically relevant and historically significant.

Morphology and Notable Features

This gastropod displays a high-spired, elongated shell with a well-defined siphonal canal, a key feature of predatory neogastropods. The whorls are clearly delineated, with subtle surface ornamentation that reflects the original shell structure. The overall form of Clavilithes pinus suggests an active carnivorous lifestyle, likely preying on other molluscs within the Eocene seas. Preservation quality allows the shell proportions and growth pattern to be clearly appreciated.

Depositional Environment

During the Eocene, the Barton-on-Sea region lay beneath a warm, shallow marine sea rich in molluscs, crustaceans, and fish. Fine sediments accumulated steadily, allowing shells to be buried and preserved with minimal transport. These calm depositional conditions are responsible for the excellent preservation and high diversity seen in the Barton Beds, making them one of the classic fossil sites of the British Isles.

Collecting, Display, and Educational Value

This Clavilithes pinus fossil gastropod is an excellent choice for fossil collectors, educational use, museum-style displays, or refined decorative presentation. Its well-documented provenance, clear species identification, and classic British Eocene origin make it both informative and visually appealing. Gastropods from the Barton Beds are increasingly sought after due to their scientific importance and aesthetic quality. Each specimen we offer is carefully selected to ensure you receive an authentic and well-presented example of Britain’s Eocene marine life.