Description
Genuine Fossil Ammonite – Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis
This listing features a well-preserved Fossil Ammonite of the species Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis, dating from the Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic Period, discovered at Évrecy, Calvados, Normandy, France. This remarkable specimen, around 170–168 million years old, offers both collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to own a rare ammonite from a classic French locality renowned for its fossil-rich deposits.
The Species – Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis
This ammonite belongs to the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Haplocerataceae, and Family Oppeliidae, within the subgenus Oecotraustes. Members of this lineage are distinctive for their relatively compressed, finely sculptured shells with clear ribbing patterns that distinguish them from smoother forms of Oppelia. Oecotraustes genicularis is characterised by its slightly keeled venter and ornamentation that reflects adaptations to its open-marine environment. As a representative ammonite of the Bajocian stage, this species is important in biostratigraphy, helping paleontologists refine the Jurassic timescale.
Geological Context – Bajocian Stage, Jurassic Period
The Bajocian stage of the Jurassic, spanning 170–168 million years ago, was a period of flourishing ammonite diversity in the shallow seas of Europe. The Évrecy region of Calvados, Normandy, is part of the Normandy Basin, which was submerged beneath warm, shallow epicontinental seas connected to the greater Tethys Ocean. Fine-grained marine sediments accumulated here, producing fossil beds that have become internationally recognised for their ammonite assemblages. Specimens from this area are highly prized because of their excellent preservation and scientific value.
Morphological Features of the Fossil
This specimen of Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis displays the classic features associated with the subgenus:
- Planispiral shell coiling, tightly wound and symmetrical, reflecting efficient hydrodynamics.
- Moderate ribbing along the whorls, providing both strength and ornamentation.
- Compressed cross-section, giving the shell a streamlined, elegant profile.
- Sutures visible in detail, intricate patterns marking the divisions between internal chambers, typical of ammonites within the Oppeliidae family.
The fossil is photographed with a 1 cm scale cube, providing precise reference for size and proportion. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact piece you will receive, carefully selected for its preservation, detail, and display quality.
Scientific Importance
Ammonites of the genus Oppelia, and in particular Oecotraustes genicularis, are valuable to science as index fossils. They help geologists identify and correlate specific biozones within the Bajocian stage across Europe. Their rapid evolutionary development and broad distribution make them essential tools for refining the Middle Jurassic stratigraphic framework. Beyond their scientific role, they are admired by collectors for their distinctive morphology and aesthetic appeal.
Provenance and Authenticity
- Species: Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis
- Age: Bajocian, Middle Jurassic (~170–168 million years old)
- Locality: Évrecy, Calvados, Normandy, France
- Family: Oppeliidae
- Superfamily: Haplocerataceae
- Order: Ammonitida
All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring full confidence in their authenticity and provenance.
Why This Fossil is Exceptional
- A rare and desirable ammonite from the Bajocian stage of the Jurassic.
- From the historically important locality of Évrecy, Calvados, Normandy.
- Displays the distinctive morphology of Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis.
- Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete assurance.
This Oppelia (Oecotraustes) genicularis ammonite fossil is a superb addition to any fossil collection, combining historical provenance, geological significance, and timeless natural beauty.
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