Fossil Ammonite Douvilleiceras mammillatum Genuine Cretaceous Lower Albian France Specimen

Description

Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Douvilleiceras mammillatum

This listing is for a superb Fossil Ammonite of the species Douvilleiceras mammillatum, dating to the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, discovered at Macheron, France. Approximately 113–110 million years old, this ammonite is one of the most iconic index fossils of the Albian stage, used worldwide to define stratigraphic boundaries. With its striking ribbed and tuberculate shell, this specimen represents both a scientifically important fossil and a visually impressive collector’s piece.

The Species – Douvilleiceras mammillatum

Douvilleiceras mammillatum is a member of the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and Family Douvilleiceratidae. This ammonite is instantly recognisable for its robust, heavily ornamented shell. Its whorls are covered with bold ribs and prominent tubercles (rounded nodes), features that give it a rugged appearance compared with more streamlined ammonite genera. The species mammillatum is of particular importance because it defines the Mammillatum Zone, the standard ammonite biozone marking the base of the Albian stage. For collectors, it holds not only aesthetic appeal but also historical and scientific prestige.

Geological Context – Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous

The Lower Albian stage, part of the Early Cretaceous Period, spans from around 113 to 110 million years ago. During this time, much of modern-day France was submerged beneath shallow epicontinental seas connected to the vast Tethys Ocean. These warm, nutrient-rich waters supported thriving ammonite populations, alongside bivalves, marine reptiles, and other invertebrates. The fossil deposits at Macheron, France, are particularly renowned for their preservation of Douvilleiceras specimens, which provide paleontologists with key material for defining global stratigraphic markers.

Morphological Features of the Fossil

This Douvilleiceras mammillatum specimen displays the classic features of the species:

• Thick, planispiral coiling with a strong, sturdy shell structure.
• Prominent radial ribs, running across the whorls and giving the shell a bold, sculptural form.
• Tubercles (rounded nodes) at rib intersections, one of the most defining traits of the genus.
• Robust outer whorls, showing adaptation to dynamic marine environments.
• Suture lines visible in areas of the fossil, intricate junctions between chambers that reflect its evolutionary complexity.

The fossil has been photographed alongside a 1 cm scale cube to provide accurate size reference. The specimen shown in the photos is the exact fossil you will receive, carefully chosen for its preservation, detail, and display quality.

Scientific Importance

Douvilleiceras mammillatum is one of the most important ammonites in the history of paleontology, serving as the index fossil that defines the base of the Albian stage of the Cretaceous Period. Its widespread occurrence and easily recognisable features make it a cornerstone of biostratigraphy, used by geologists worldwide to correlate Lower Cretaceous sediments. Beyond its scientific role, its bold ornamentation makes it a favourite among fossil collectors and natural history enthusiasts.

Provenance and Authenticity

• Species: Douvilleiceras mammillatum
• Age: Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous (~113–110 million years old)
• Locality: Macheron, France
• Family: Douvilleiceratidae
• Superfamily: Acanthoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring complete confidence in their provenance and authenticity.

Why This Fossil is Exceptional

• A scientifically significant ammonite defining the Mammillatum Zone of the Albian stage.
• Distinctive morphology with strong ribbing and tuberculate ornamentation.
• From the classic Albian fossil beds of Macheron, France.
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for guaranteed authenticity.

This Douvilleiceras mammillatum ammonite fossil is a rare and scientifically renowned specimen that combines geological importance, natural beauty, and collector’s value. It is a remarkable addition to any fossil collection or educational display.