Description
This listing features a well-preserved Fossil Echinoid – Conulus sp., naturally embedded in its original chalk matrix, collected from the Cretaceous chalk beds of Margate, Kent, England. This is a genuine fossil sea urchin from the age of dinosaurs, originating from Britain’s iconic white chalk cliffs.
As always, this fossil is a 100% authentic specimen, carefully selected and backed by a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil shown in the images is the exact piece you will receive. Please refer to the included photo with a 1cm scale cube for full sizing.
Fossil Overview:
- Genus: Conulus (exact species not determined)
- Common Name: Fossil Sea Urchin / Echinoid
- Geological Period: Late Cretaceous
- Stage: Likely Middle to Upper Cenomanian (~100–93 million years ago)
- Formation: Margate Chalk Member (part of the Grey Chalk Subgroup)
- Location: Margate, Kent, England
- Preservation Type: Chalk matrix fossil with natural test preservation
Geological & Depositional Environment:
This fossil comes from the chalk beds of the Cenomanian Stage, part of the Upper Cretaceous, which were formed in a warm, shallow marine environment that once covered much of what is now southern England. The Margate Chalk Member is known for its rich marine invertebrate fauna, including echinoids, ammonites, bivalves, and more.
These deposits are composed of fine-grained calcium carbonate from billions of microscopic coccoliths, creating the ideal conditions for fossilisation. The low-energy marine setting contributed to the excellent preservation of delicate echinoid tests like this one.
Taxonomy & Classification:
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Echinoneoida
- Superfamily: Conulidea
- Family: Conulidae
- Genus: Conulus
- Species: Undetermined
Morphological Features:
Typical of the Conulus genus, this fossil echinoid displays:
- A sub-pentagonal, heart-shaped test
- A smooth upper surface with slightly raised ambulacra
- A central apical dome and a flattish base
- Oral and anal structures aligned according to bilateral symmetry
These adaptations reflect a semi-infaunal lifestyle, with the echinoid likely living partly buried in soft marine sediment, feeding on organic particles within the substrate.
Notable Aspects:
- Collected from a well-known fossiliferous chalk site in Kent
- Preserved in its natural chalk matrix for an authentic geological context
- A great example of British Cretaceous marine life
- Ideal for collectors, students, educators, or display
Why Buy From Us?
- All fossils are 100% genuine – no replicas
- Includes a Certificate of Authenticity
- The exact specimen shown is the one you will receive
- Carefully packaged and dispatched promptly
Own a real piece of England’s ancient seabed with this Conulus echinoid fossil. A beautiful and educational specimen from the chalk seas of the Cretaceous.
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