Fossil Ammonite Oppelia calloviensis Genuine Jurassic Callovian Germany Authentic Specimen

Description

Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Oppelia calloviensis

This listing is for a finely preserved Fossil Ammonite of the species Oppelia calloviensis, originating from the Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic Period, discovered in Ballingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Dating to approximately 166–161 million years ago, this ammonite represents an exceptional specimen from one of Germany’s most renowned Jurassic fossil localities. Carefully chosen for its preservation and detail, it is both a scientifically significant fossil and a striking collector’s piece.

The Species – Oppelia calloviensis

Oppelia calloviensis is a member of the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Haplocerataceae, and Family Oppeliidae. Ammonites of the genus Oppelia are easily identified by their smooth, streamlined shells, in contrast to heavily ribbed or ornate Jurassic ammonites. The species calloviensis is particularly important in paleontology because it is tied directly to the Callovian stage, with its name reflecting its stratigraphic role. This ammonite’s elegant form and diagnostic features make it an excellent example of the evolutionary adaptations within the Oppeliidae family.

Geological Context – Callovian Stage, Jurassic Period

The Callovian stage of the Middle Jurassic spanned approximately 166–161 million years ago and was a time of significant ammonite diversification. The region of Ballingen, Baden-Württemberg, lies within the Swabian Jura, an area well known for its fossil-rich marine deposits. During the Callovian, this part of Europe was submerged beneath warm shallow seas connected to the Tethys Ocean. The sedimentary environment was dominated by marine mudstones and limestones, which preserved ammonites in excellent condition. Fossils from this area are highly valued for their clarity and importance in defining Jurassic stratigraphy.

Morphological Features of the Fossil

This Oppelia calloviensis specimen displays the key diagnostic features of the species:

• Planispiral coiling with smooth, evenly rounded whorls.
• Streamlined, compressed shell form, characteristic of the Oppeliidae family.
• Minimal ornamentation, a distinguishing feature when compared with more heavily ribbed ammonite genera.
• Visible sutures that mark the divisions of the internal shell chambers, an evolutionary adaptation for buoyancy regulation.

The fossil is photographed with a 1 cm scale cube to provide accurate size reference. The specimen shown is the exact piece you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and authenticity.

Scientific Importance

Ammonites such as Oppelia calloviensis are of major importance in stratigraphy, as they are used as index fossils to define and correlate specific biozones of the Jurassic Period. The Callovian stage itself takes its name from this ammonite group, underlining its central role in geological classification. Specimens like this one are critical for understanding evolutionary changes among ammonites, as well as for reconstructing marine ecosystems of the Jurassic seas.

Provenance and Authenticity

• Species: Oppelia calloviensis
• Age: Callovian, Middle Jurassic (~166–161 million years old)
• Locality: Ballingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
• Family: Oppeliidae
• Superfamily: Haplocerataceae
• Order: Ammonitida

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity, providing complete confidence in their origin and authenticity.

Why This Fossil is Exceptional

• A rare and scientifically significant ammonite from the Callovian stage.
• Collected from the world-renowned fossil beds of Ballingen, Baden-Württemberg.
• Displays the characteristic smooth morphology of Oppelia calloviensis.
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing provenance and genuineness.

This Oppelia calloviensis ammonite fossil is an outstanding specimen that combines scientific importance, geological history, and natural elegance. It is a highly desirable piece for collectors, educators, and natural history enthusiasts alike.