Description
Fossil Ceratodus Coprolite in Matrix – Westbury Formation, Upper Triassic.
Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, United Kingdom
Geological Age: Upper Triassic (Rhaetian Stage, approx. 205 million years ago)
Stratigraphy: Westbury Formation, Penarth Group
This genuine specimen features a fossilised coprolite (fossil faeces) attributed to Ceratodus, an extinct genus of lungfish (Family: Ceratodontidae). It is preserved within a block of matrix from the iconic Aust Cliff site, world-renowned for its concentration of fossil material including fish, reptiles, and coprolites.
Palaeontological & Geological Details:
- Fossil Type: Coprolite
- Probable Producer: Ceratodus (lungfish)
- Family: Ceratodontidae
- Order: Dipnoi
- Depositional Environment: Low-energy, marginal marine to lagoonal setting with periodic anoxic conditions, allowing for exceptional preservation
- Stage: Rhaetian (Upper Triassic)
- Formation: Westbury Formation
- Group: Penarth Group
- Notable Features: This coprolite displays the characteristic spiral morphology commonly seen in lungfish digestive remains, indicating a slow-moving aquatic predator or bottom-dweller.
Aust Cliff is a classic British fossil locality known for its vibrant red and green mudstones, hosting an exceptionally fossiliferous layer nicknamed the “fish bed”. This horizon has yielded important vertebrate fossils and is frequently studied for its insight into Late Triassic ecosystems.
This specimen was discovered on 07 April 2025 by our dedicated team members Alister and Alison. It has been professionally cleaned, prepped, and stabilised by Alison to ensure the finest display and preservation quality.
Scale & Presentation:
Scale cube = 1cm. Please see the accompanying photo for full sizing and specimen details. The fossil you see is the exact one you will receive.
Authenticity Guarantee:
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
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