Description
Authentic Fossil Ammonite from Madagascar
This listing is for a genuine fossil ammonite, Zurcherella zurcheri, from the famous Cretaceous deposits of Madagascar. Dating from the Upper Barremian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 125–120 million years ago), this specimen represents a remarkable piece of natural history from an era when dinosaurs still roamed the Earth and ammonites thrived in the warm tropical seas. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, carefully selected for quality and preservation. Scale rule squares / cube = 1 cm – please see photos for full sizing details. All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Context: Upper Barremian of Madagascar
This ammonite comes from the Barremian stage of the Early Cretaceous, specifically the Upper Barremian, which is renowned for its diversity of ammonites and other marine life. The deposits of Madagascar where these fossils are found were once part of the southern supercontinent Gondwana. During the Barremian, the area was covered by shallow, warm, tropical seas that provided the perfect environment for ammonites to flourish.
The rock layers are typically marls and limestones deposited in a marine shelf environment, with excellent preservation conditions that have yielded some of the world’s most beautiful ammonite fossils. Madagascar has long been a source of ammonites prized by both collectors and scientists, with many specimens featuring intricate suture patterns and well-defined shell morphology.
The Species: Zurcherella zurcheri
Zurcherella zurcheri is a member of the ammonite order Ammonitida, within the superfamily Ancyloceratoidea and family Heteroceratidae. These ammonites are particularly notable for their heteromorphic shell structure, which often shows coiling variations that set them apart from the more tightly coiled planispiral ammonites. The genus is characteristic of the Upper Barremian and serves as an important biozone marker in Cretaceous stratigraphy.
This species is distinguished by its ornamented whorls, strong ribbing, and unique coiling that reflects adaptations to its marine environment. The shells of Zurcherella zurcheri may have assisted with buoyancy control and hydrodynamic efficiency, allowing it to thrive in the open seas as an active swimmer and predator.
Morphological and Scientific Importance
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Ancyloceratoidea
- Family: Heteroceratidae
- Genus and Species: Zurcherella zurcheri
- Geological Stage: Upper Barremian, Early Cretaceous (approx. 125–120 Ma)
- Location: Madagascar
- Shell Traits: Distinctive ribbing, heteromorphic coiling, strong ornamentation
Fossils of Zurcherella zurcheri play a significant role in biostratigraphy, helping geologists to correlate rock layers across different parts of the world. Their abundance in Barremian deposits makes them key reference fossils for dating marine sediments of this age.
A Collector’s Fossil
Ammonites are among the most iconic fossils in paleontology, representing an extinct lineage of cephalopods related to modern squids and octopuses. This specimen of Zurcherella zurcheri from Madagascar is a museum-quality fossil, perfect for collectors, educational use, or as a unique display piece. Its geological and scientific importance, combined with its aesthetic appeal, makes it a prized addition to any fossil collection.
Every fossil is carefully handled and selected to ensure authenticity and quality. With its unique preservation and well-documented origin, this ammonite provides a direct connection to the ancient seas of the Cretaceous period.
All of our fossils are genuine natural specimens, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, giving you complete confidence in your purchase. This is an opportunity to own a rare and scientifically significant ammonite fossil from one of the world’s most famous fossil localities.
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