Cunningtoniceras Fossil Ammonite Middle Cenomanian Cretaceous Sussex UK – Genuine Authentic Collector Specimen with COA

Description

Cunningtoniceras Fossil Ammonite from the Middle Cenomanian

This fine Cunningtoniceras fossil ammonite is a striking and scientifically valuable specimen from the Middle Cenomanian stage of the Late Cretaceous, found in the fossil-rich chalk deposits of Sussex, United Kingdom. Ammonites from this genus are well-regarded among collectors and researchers for their distinctive shell ornamentation and importance in understanding Cretaceous marine environments. The specimen you see pictured is the exact piece you will receive, chosen for its quality preservation and display appeal.

Geological Age & Formation

Dating to approximately 98–95 million years ago, this fossil comes from the Middle Cenomanian stage, a subdivision of the Cretaceous Period. At the time, Sussex was submerged beneath warm, shallow epicontinental seas that formed part of a vast marine corridor connected to the Tethys Ocean. The region’s famous chalk beds were deposited by the accumulation of microscopic coccolithophores, whose calcium carbonate remains created the perfect environment for the preservation of marine invertebrates like ammonites.

The fossil’s chalk matrix has helped maintain intricate shell details, protecting it from erosion and compression over millions of years. Sussex chalk deposits are renowned for yielding exceptionally preserved ammonites that provide both scientific insight and stunning display specimens.

Species Profile & Scientific Classification

The genus Cunningtoniceras belongs to the family Acanthoceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, order Ammonitida. Known for their strong ribbing and prominent tubercles along the ventrolateral shoulder, Cunningtoniceras ammonites are morphologically distinctive. These features not only served hydrodynamic purposes but also played a role in strengthening the shell.

As a member of the Acanthoceratidae family, Cunningtoniceras is an important index fossil, aiding geologists in correlating Cenomanian-age deposits across Europe and beyond.

Morphological Features

This example showcases the diagnostic traits of the genus:

• Evolute shell coiling that reveals the earlier whorls.
• Strong, evenly spaced radial ribs running from the umbilicus to the venter.
• Distinctive ventrolateral tubercles, giving the shell a sculptured appearance.
• Preservation of original ornamentation patterns, offering valuable scientific detail.

These features make this ammonite both a superb collector’s item and a piece of genuine palaeontological significance.

Depositional Environment

The Middle Cenomanian seas in which Cunningtoniceras lived were part of a warm, subtropical marine ecosystem. These seas teemed with life, including other ammonite genera, belemnites, fish, marine reptiles, and a variety of invertebrates. Ammonites such as this would have been active swimmers, predating on small marine organisms and playing an integral role in the Cretaceous food web. Upon death, their shells settled onto the soft chalky seafloor, where rapid burial preserved them in remarkable detail.

Collector Value & Significance

This fossil holds appeal for both scientific study and private collections due to:

• Its excellent preservation from one of the UK’s most famous chalk fossil sites.
• Its rarity and distinctive morphology, making it easily identifiable.
• Its stratigraphic value as a Middle Cenomanian index fossil.
• Its aesthetic appeal, suitable for display in both academic and home settings.

Authenticity & Presentation

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. This Cunningtoniceras ammonite has been carefully chosen for its condition, scientific relevance, and visual impact, making it a perfect addition to any fossil collection or educational display.