Fossil Severnichthys Fish Tooth Block Aust Cliff Bristol Westbury Formation Penarth Group Upper Triassic

Description

Rare Severnichthys Fish Tooth from Aust Cliff

This listing features a genuine Severnichthys fish tooth fossil preserved in a natural sediment block from the world-famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK. The specimen is carefully selected for quality and scientific significance, with photographs provided showing the exact piece you will receive. A 1 cm scale cube is included in the images for accurate sizing reference.

Geological Context and Provenance

The fossil originates from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, and dates to the Upper Triassic period, approximately 208–201 million years ago. This formation is internationally recognised as a highly fossiliferous sequence, especially renowned for its rich concentration of vertebrate material. Aust Cliff is one of the most important Rhaetian fossil sites in Britain, producing an exceptional range of fossils including fish, sharks, marine reptiles, and abundant coprolites. The bed represents the final stages of the Triassic seas immediately before the Triassic–Jurassic boundary event, making finds from this horizon both scientifically and historically important.

About Severnichthys

Severnichthys is an extinct genus of actinopterygian (ray-finned) fish, first described from material collected in the Rhaetian beds of the Severn Estuary. Its remains are most commonly represented by teeth, which provide valuable insight into the feeding adaptations of fish during the closing stages of the Triassic. The teeth of Severnichthys are typically small but robust, with distinctive crowns suited for gripping and processing prey. They suggest a varied diet, reflecting the fish’s role in the complex marine ecosystem of the time.

Morphological Features and Traits

The tooth preserved in this specimen displays the characteristic morphology of Severnichthys. The crown is well-formed, showing fine preservation of enamel and natural surface texture. Its shape is adapted for effective feeding in a shallow marine environment, and teeth such as this played a critical role in reconstructing the evolutionary relationships of Triassic fishes. Finds of Severnichthys teeth are not only valuable to collectors but also highly informative to palaeontologists studying changes in vertebrate faunas leading up to the end-Triassic extinction event.

Depositional Environment

The Westbury Formation was deposited in a shallow marine to lagoonal setting, with intervals of low oxygen that enhanced preservation potential. The fossil-rich layers at Aust Cliff record accumulations of vertebrate remains alongside shells, coprolites, and sedimentary structures that help reconstruct the palaeoenvironment. The presence of Severnichthys teeth within these beds highlights the diversity of fish species that thrived in these waters just before one of Earth’s major extinction intervals.

Discovery and Preparation

This specimen was discovered on the 7th of April 2025 by our dedicated fossil hunting team members, Alister and Alison, at Aust Cliff. After collection, it was carefully cleaned, prepared, and treated by Alison to ensure its long-term stability and display quality. Every effort has been taken to preserve both the natural character of the fossil and the geological context of the block.

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. A Severnichthys fish tooth from Aust Cliff is an exciting and uncommon addition to any fossil collection. As these teeth are seldom offered for sale and originate from a site of international importance, this specimen provides a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of Upper Triassic history.

A Unique Piece of Triassic Heritage

This fossilised fish tooth of Severnichthys captures a moment from over 200 million years ago, offering a direct connection to the last ecosystems of the Triassic seas. With its rarity, provenance, and exceptional preservation, this specimen is perfect for collectors, educators, and anyone with an interest in natural history and palaeontology.