Dactylioteuthis paxillosa Fossil Belemnite Pliensbachian Jurassic Palencia Spain with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Dactylioteuthis paxillosa Belemnite from Palencia, Spain

This is a genuine Dactylioteuthis paxillosa fossil belemnite, originating from the Pliensbachian Stage of the Lower Jurassic and discovered in Palencia, Spain. At approximately 190–183 million years old, this specimen represents the rostrum (guard) of an extinct squid-like cephalopod that once thrived in the warm shallow seas covering much of Europe during the Early Jurassic.

Every fossil we supply is 100% genuine and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The exact specimen shown in the photographs is the one you will receive. Accurate measurements are indicated with a 1cm scale cube and rule squares for reference.

Geological Age and Provenance

The Pliensbachian Stage is a subdivision of the Early Jurassic, characterised by widespread marine sedimentation and rich faunal assemblages. In Iberia, these deposits are particularly well-known for yielding ammonites, bivalves, and belemnites.

The locality of Palencia, Spain, lies within a region that was once submerged beneath epicontinental seas. These marine environments provided the perfect conditions for the preservation of cephalopods. Fossils from this area are highly regarded for their clarity of detail and scientific value.

Fossil Type and Scientific Classification

• Genus: Dactylioteuthis
• Species: Dactylioteuthis paxillosa
• Order: Belemnitida
• Superfamily: Belemnitoidea
• Family: Belemnitidae

Belemnites are extinct members of the class Cephalopoda and are closely related to modern squid, cuttlefish, and octopus. Unlike their soft-bodied relatives, belemnites possessed an internal skeleton, of which the rostrum is the most durable part and the structure most commonly preserved in the fossil record.

Morphological Features

This specimen of Dactylioteuthis paxillosa displays the classic features of the species, including:

• Slender Elongated Guard: Cylindrical, tapering smoothly towards the apex.
• Distinct Alveolus: Anterior hollow cavity where the phragmocone was attached.
• Fine Surface Texture: Growth lines and subtle structural markings typical of the genus.
• Tapered Posterior Apex: Streamlined adaptation for efficient swimming in open marine waters.

These anatomical traits highlight the evolutionary adaptations that made belemnites highly effective predators in the Early Jurassic seas.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Dactylioteuthis paxillosa is of particular importance in biostratigraphy, as it is restricted to specific intervals of the Pliensbachian Stage. Its presence helps geologists correlate marine strata across Europe, making it a useful index fossil.

For collectors, specimens from Palencia, Spain are valued for their rarity, provenance, and historical significance. The species itself is widely recognised and admired for its slender, elegant morphology, making it both a scientifically important and visually appealing fossil.

Display and Educational Value

This fossil provides a captivating glimpse into the rich marine ecosystems of the Jurassic seas. Its streamlined form and excellent preservation make it ideal for display in a private collection, educational setting, or museum exhibit.

Whether appreciated for its beauty, its geological importance, or its role in documenting the evolution of cephalopods, this Dactylioteuthis paxillosa fossil belemnite from Palencia, Spain is a superb addition to any collection and a tangible piece of natural history dating back nearly 190 million years.