Description
Presenting a large and superbly preserved specimen of Echinocorys scutata gravesi, a fossil echinoid (sea urchin) from the Santonian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in the famous chalk cliffs of Broadstairs, Kent, UK. This iconic species of heart urchin is among the most recognisable and scientifically valuable echinoids from the British chalk.
Fossil Type: Echinoid (Sea Urchin)
Species: Echinocorys scutata gravesi
Geological Period: Late Cretaceous (~86.3 to 83.6 million years ago)
Geological Stage: Santonian
Formation: Chalk Group (Upper Cretaceous)
Location: Broadstairs, Kent, United Kingdom
Scale Rule: Squares/Cube = 1cm (See photo for full sizing)
Specimen: You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photograph
Authenticity: All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity
Geological and Paleontological Context
Echinocorys scutata gravesi is a subspecies of the widespread and well-known heart urchin from the British Upper Cretaceous chalk deposits. It is characterised by its large size, domed test (shell), and well-developed petaloid ambulacra (the star-shaped grooves).
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Holasteroida
- Family: Holasteridae
- Genus: Echinocorys
- Species/Subspecies: scutata gravesi
- Geological Stage: Santonian (Late Cretaceous)
- Depositional Environment: Shallow marine chalk platform; low-energy, fine calcareous mud deposits from the ancient Cretaceous seas
- Morphological Features: Robust, oval to dome-shaped test with distinct upper ambulacra, well-developed peristome (mouth opening), and flattened oral surface; preserved in fine chalk matrix, often retaining exquisite detail
- Notable: Echinocorys scutata is among the most iconic and widely distributed echinoid species in European chalk; the gravesi subspecies is particularly noted from Kent and adjacent areas
- Biozone: Likely associated with Santonian inoceramid and foraminiferal zones within the UK Upper Chalk
- Identifier: First described in 19th-century British paleontological literature; a reference species for zonal and paleoenvironmental studies in the Chalk
Why This Fossil is Special
This Echinocorys scutata gravesi specimen is notable for its large size, classic form, and excellent preservation, making it a top-tier addition for fossil collectors, educators, and anyone passionate about natural history. British chalk echinoids of this calibre are highly sought after and reflect the incredible biodiversity of the Late Cretaceous seas.
Why Buy From Us?
- 100% genuine fossil with Certificate of Authenticity
- You will receive the exact specimen pictured
- Ethically sourced and professionally verified
- Ideal for display, education, and collection
Bring home a striking piece of marine paleontology with this large Cretaceous echinoid fossil – Echinocorys scutata gravesi, from the legendary chalk beds of Broadstairs, Kent, preserved for over 85 million years in England’s ancient sea sediments.
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