Mantelliceras Ammonite Fossil Cretaceous Morocco Genuine Specimen with COA

Description

Genuine Mantelliceras Ammonite Fossil from Morocco

This listing features an authentic Mantelliceras sp. ammonite fossil from Morocco, dating back to the Cretaceous period. The specimen is a high-quality display fossil, chosen for its strong preservation and distinct spiral form. The photo shows the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube provided for size reference. Each fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing that it is 100% genuine.

Geological Age and Origin

Mantelliceras ammonites are from the Cretaceous period, approximately 145–66 million years ago. This was a time of dramatic change on Earth, marked by high sea levels and warm climates that supported vast marine ecosystems. The deposits in Morocco where these ammonites are found are world-renowned for yielding beautifully preserved marine fossils, thanks to the rich sedimentary limestone and shale layers that formed under ancient seas.

About the Species: Mantelliceras sp.

Mantelliceras is a genus of ammonites within the family Acanthoceratidae. These cephalopods were fast-moving marine predators with tightly coiled, ribbed shells that provided buoyancy and protection. Their ribbing and ornamentation are distinctive features that help identify them among the diverse ammonite families. Mantelliceras species flourished during the mid-Cretaceous, and their widespread distribution makes them important index fossils used by geologists to date rock layers.

Like all ammonites, Mantelliceras was closely related to modern cephalopods such as squid, octopuses, and cuttlefish. They possessed tentacles and a siphon for propulsion, hunting smaller marine organisms within the ancient seas.

Fossil Characteristics

Ammonites like Mantelliceras are recognised by their iconic spiral shells, which grew in chambers. The animal lived in the outermost chamber while the inner chambers were filled with gas or fluid to regulate buoyancy. Some specimens display suture patterns—intricate lines where the internal walls of the chambers met the outer shell—which are a hallmark of ammonite fossils. Mantelliceras fossils often show ribbed ornamentation across the whorls, highlighting the natural geometry of these ancient molluscs.

Size and Display

This fossil is presented as a genuine natural specimen, perfect for collectors, educators, or as a striking display piece for the home or office. Ammonites varied greatly in size, from only a few millimetres in diameter to giants measuring over 2.5 metres (8 feet) across. The Moroccan Mantelliceras specimen is a medium-sized ammonite, making it an ideal hand-held fossil with excellent display potential.

Collecting and Scientific Importance

Ammonites are among the most recognisable and collectible fossils, both for their beauty and their scientific significance. Mantelliceras, with its strong ribbing and well-defined whorls, is a classic example of Cretaceous ammonite diversity. As index fossils, they are vital to understanding Earth’s geological record, helping paleontologists date strata and reconstruct ancient marine environments. Owning a Mantelliceras ammonite fossil is not only a connection to a vanished world but also a tangible piece of Earth’s evolutionary history.

Authenticity Guarantee

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens. This Mantelliceras ammonite fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is the exact specimen photographed. It has been carefully selected for its preservation and display quality, making it a fine addition to any fossil collection.