Fossil Ammonite Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi Genuine Cretaceous Upper Aptian France

Description

Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi

This listing features a rare and scientifically significant Fossil Ammonite of the species Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi, from the Upper Aptian stage of the Early Cretaceous Period, discovered at Auggusac, Tarn, France. Dating back approximately 120–113 million years, this specimen represents a fascinating chapter in the evolutionary story of ammonites and provides a direct link to the marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous seas.

The Species – Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi

Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi is part of the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Desmoceratoidea, and Family Parahoplitidae. Ammonites within this group are known for their ornate ribbing, complex shell structures, and distinctive morphological features that differentiate them from other Aptian ammonites. The ribbing pattern of Epicheloniceras is strong and prominent, often extending across the whorls in a bold, regular arrangement, giving the shell a striking three-dimensional texture. This fossil is not only visually impressive but also an important reference point for paleontological studies of Aptian stratigraphy and ammonite evolution.

Geological Context – Upper Aptian, Early Cretaceous

The Upper Aptian stage represents a critical time in Earth’s history, spanning approximately 120–113 million years ago. During this period, southern France was submerged beneath the warm shallow waters of the northern Tethys Ocean, which provided an ideal habitat for ammonites, marine reptiles, bivalves, and other organisms. The locality of Auggusac, Tarn is particularly famous for its Cretaceous ammonite deposits, with fine marine sediments allowing for exquisite preservation of shell detail. The fossil-bearing beds here are invaluable to geologists and paleontologists for reconstructing marine ecosystems of the Aptian stage.

Morphological Features of the Fossil

This specimen of Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi displays several defining features of the species:

• Planispiral shell coiling, tightly wound and symmetrical.
• Strong ribbing radiating from the umbilicus to the outer whorl edges.
• Tuberculate ornamentation may be present in places, enhancing its robust appearance.
• Distinct suture lines, intricately folded and preserved, reflecting the shell’s internal chamber structures.

The fossil has been photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for precise measurement reference. The specimen shown is the exact piece you will receive, selected for its preservation, clarity, and scientific value.

Scientific Importance

Ammonites such as Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi serve as biostratigraphic index fossils, enabling geologists to correlate Aptian-aged rock formations across Europe and beyond. Their rapid evolutionary changes and widespread distribution make them crucial for refining the geological timescale. This species, in particular, is associated with important Upper Aptian biozones, allowing precise stratigraphic correlations in the Cretaceous rock record. Collectors and researchers prize such fossils for their combination of rarity, beauty, and scientific relevance.

Provenance and Authenticity

• Species: Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi
• Age: Upper Aptian, Early Cretaceous (~120–113 million years old)
• Locality: Auggusac, Tarn, France
• Family: Parahoplitidae
• Superfamily: Desmoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete peace of mind.

Why This Fossil is Exceptional

• A rare ammonite species from the Upper Aptian stage of the Cretaceous.
• Beautifully preserved with detailed ribbing and suture lines.
• From a classic French locality renowned for its fossil-rich deposits.
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring provenance and genuineness.

This Epicheloniceras tschernyschewi ammonite fossil is both a remarkable scientific specimen and a striking natural display piece, making it a valuable addition to any fossil collection or educational exhibit.