Description
DESMOPHYLLITES larteri Fossil Ammonite – Santonian Stage, Late Cretaceous Period, Madagascar
This beautifully preserved Desmophyllites larteri ammonite fossil comes from the Santonian stage of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 86.3 to 83.6 million years ago, and was recovered from the fossil-rich marine strata of Madagascar. An elegant example of a later-period ammonite, this species combines smooth morphology with high scientific and collector appeal.
Fossil Type & Species:
- Type: Invertebrate Fossil (Ammonite Shell)
- Species: Desmophyllites larteri
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Desmocerataceae
- Family: Desmoceratidae
- Described by: Woods, 1911
Geological & Stratigraphic Details:
- Formation: Marine sedimentary deposits, likely from the Mahajanga Basin, Madagascar
- Geological Stage: Santonian (Late Cretaceous)
- Age: ~86.3–83.6 million years ago
- Biozone: Upper Cretaceous ammonite-bearing sequences (specific zonation not formally assigned)
- Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to continental shelf environment with fine calcareous sediments that aided in the preservation of cephalopod shells
Morphology & Features: This Desmophyllites larteri specimen exhibits defining characteristics:
- Smooth, compressed, discoidal shell with tightly coiled whorls
- Involute coiling with a small umbilicus
- Minimal ribbing or ornamentation — a key trait of the genus
- Elegant natural symmetry and distinctive suture patterns on some polished or partially weathered examples
- Preserved in warm fossil tones — brown, tan, and grey — often polished for clarity and contrast
Notable: Desmophyllites is a genus known for its clean, streamlined form and subtle shell features, which contrast with more heavily ornamented ammonites. It is frequently used in studies of Late Cretaceous ammonoid evolution and biostratigraphy. Specimens like D. larteri are rarely found in such complete condition.
Specimen Details:
- Origin: Madagascar (likely Mahajanga Basin)
- Species: Desmophyllites larteri
- Fossil Type: Ammonite Shell (Invertebrate)
- Geological Stage: Santonian, Late Cretaceous
- Size Reference: Scale rule square = 1cm (please refer to the photo for accurate sizing)
- Note: The exact specimen pictured is the one you will receive
Authenticity & Quality: We guarantee all our fossils are 100% genuine and carefully selected for their scientific value and display quality. This specimen includes a Certificate of Authenticity and is not artificially enhanced or reconstructed.
Why Choose This Fossil? A superb addition to any fossil collection, this ammonite is ideal for:
- Collectors of rare Late Cretaceous ammonites
- Museum or educational display
- Natural history enthusiasts and palaeontologists
- Unique decor or gift idea
Shipping & Packaging: Your fossil will be securely packed with eco-conscious materials. Fast, tracked shipping ensures your item arrives safely and promptly.
Add an authentic piece of Late Cretaceous marine life to your collection with this striking Desmophyllites larteri ammonite fossil.
All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
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