Description
An elegant and scientifically valuable Conulus albogalerus fossil echinoid, preserved naturally on a flint nodule, from the Santonian stage of the Late Cretaceous, collected at Dumpton Gap, Kent, England, UK. This specimen represents a beautifully complete echinoid embedded in a naturally formed flint, offering both visual appeal and exceptional preservation.
- Fossil Type: Echinoid (sea urchin)
- Species: Conulus albogalerus
- Matrix: Naturally preserved on flint
- Size: Please refer to the photograph with a 1cm scale cube
- Geological Period: Cretaceous
- Stage: Santonian (~86.3 to 83.6 million years ago)
- Locality: Dumpton Gap, Kent, England, UK
- Family: Conulidae
- Superfamily: Cassiduloidea
- Order: Cassiduloida
- Depositional Environment: Shallow marine carbonate platform with low-energy conditions and abundant coccolithic sedimentation; flint formed as diagenetic silica replacement in chalk
Geological & Scientific Significance:
Conulus albogalerus is one of the most recognisable echinoid species found in the British Upper Cretaceous Chalk. It has a distinctively domed, heart-like shape with a smooth surface and a central apical system.
This particular specimen is preserved in flint, a silica-rich nodule that formed post-depositionally within the chalk beds. Fossils preserved in flint are particularly valued for their fine detail and durability. The Dumpton Gap locality is part of the North Downs Chalk exposure, yielding echinoids, sponges, and other marine fossils of exceptional quality.
Conulus albogalerus is significant in studies of Santonian chalk biofacies and offers palaeoenvironmental insight into Cretaceous benthic communities.
Notable Features:
- Beautifully preserved on naturally occurring flint nodule
- Smooth, symmetrical test with excellent anatomical definition
- From a classic and productive UK Upper Cretaceous site
- Rare to find such fine echinoids preserved in flint rather than soft chalk
Authenticity Guaranteed: This fossil is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring its identity and origin.
Photo Disclosure: You will receive the exact specimen shown in the listing photos. A scale cube with 1cm squares is provided for accurate measurement.
This Conulus albogalerus on flint is a refined and rare addition to any fossil collection, perfect for collectors of British chalk fossils or as a visually striking educational piece.
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