Discohoplites Ammonite Fossil Rare Lower Albian Cretaceous Morocco Genuine Specimen COA

Description

Rare Discohoplites Ammonite Fossil from Morocco

This listing offers a rare Discohoplites ammonite fossil sourced from the Lower Albian Stage of the Early Cretaceous period, dating to approximately 113–110 million years ago. Found in Morocco, this specimen represents an exceptional piece of Earth’s deep history, showcasing the remarkable preservation and distinctive morphology of the genus Discohoplites. The fossil has been carefully selected for quality and authenticity and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference.

Geological Context: Lower Albian, Cretaceous of Morocco

The Lower Albian Stage forms part of the Early Cretaceous, a time of widespread shallow seas and flourishing marine life. In Morocco, marine sediments deposited during this interval are rich in ammonite faunas, reflecting the dynamic and biodiverse ecosystems of the Cretaceous oceans. These deposits, primarily composed of marls and clays, provided the ideal conditions for fossilisation, ensuring ammonites like Discohoplites are preserved in fine detail.

The Albian is a key stratigraphic stage, with ammonites serving as important biostratigraphic markers. The presence of Discohoplites is valuable for identifying and correlating layers of rock across different regions, making fossils like this one scientifically significant as well as visually appealing.

Scientific Classification

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Genus: Discohoplites
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitaceae
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Geological Age: Lower Albian Stage, Early Cretaceous (c. 113–110 million years ago)
• Locality: Morocco

Morphological Features of Discohoplites

Discohoplites is instantly recognisable by its unique shell features and striking ornamentation. Key traits include:

• Discoidal, compressed shell with a flattened profile, giving the genus its distinctive name.
• Prominent ribbing that runs across the flanks, creating an elegant but bold surface texture.
• Ventrolateral tubercles, characteristic of many Hoplitidae, which provided reinforcement and hydrodynamic advantages.
• Strongly defined keel, running along the venter, enhancing stability during swimming in marine currents.

These morphological adaptations reflect the ammonite’s active nektonic lifestyle, as it swam through the Cretaceous seas hunting small prey such as plankton, crustaceans, and juvenile fish.

Paleoecology and Evolutionary Role

Discohoplites was part of the diverse ammonite fauna of the Early Cretaceous seas. As an active predator, it played an important role in the food chain, while itself being prey for larger marine reptiles like plesiosaurs and mosasaurs. The ribbing and tubercles of the shell likely had multiple functions, from strengthening the shell against water pressure to providing protection against predators.

Ammonites such as Discohoplites are also invaluable to paleontology because of their rapid evolutionary turnover. Each species thrived within a relatively narrow time span, making them excellent markers for dating and correlating geological layers (biozones). This specimen thus represents not just a fossil, but also a key reference point for reconstructing Earth’s geological past.

Collector’s Value and Display Potential

This Discohoplites ammonite fossil is a rare opportunity to acquire a scientifically significant and visually striking specimen. Its clear ribbing, compressed shell shape, and strong preservation make it a desirable addition for collectors of Cretaceous fossils, ammonites, and Moroccan specimens. Fossils from the Lower Albian are particularly prized due to their combination of rarity, diagnostic features, and geological importance.

Whether displayed in a private collection, used as an educational specimen, or admired as a natural work of art, this fossil embodies the mystery and wonder of ancient marine life. Its provenance from Morocco’s fossil-rich deposits only adds to its desirability.

Key Details

• Species: Discohoplites sp.
• Age: Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous (113–110 million years old)
• Locality: Morocco
• Formation: Marine sediments of the Albian Stage
• Features: Compressed discoidal shell, ribbing, tubercles, strong keel
• Authenticity: 100% genuine specimen with Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact Specimen: The fossil pictured is the one you will receive
• Scale: 1 cm reference cube shown in photos

This rare Discohoplites ammonite fossil from the Lower Albian of Morocco captures both the scientific importance and natural beauty of Cretaceous ammonites, offering a genuine connection to life in the ancient seas.