Description
HYPHOPLITES FALCATUS AMMONITE FOSSIL
This genuine Hyphoplites falcatus ammonite comes from Shapwick Grange in Devon, England. It dates to the Cenomanian stage of the Upper Cretaceous, approximately 94 to 100 million years ago. The specimen has been carefully selected for its natural fossil character, and the photographs show the exact piece that you will receive.
CRETACEOUS AGE AND DEVON LOCALITY
During the Cenomanian, global sea levels were exceptionally high and warm marine waters covered much of Europe. Sediment accumulated on the seabed while ammonites, bivalves, echinoids and other organisms flourished in the sea. When an ammonite died, its shell could settle into soft sediment, become buried and gradually mineralise. Later geological change and erosion exposed the fossil-bearing rocks.
Shapwick Grange is a recognised Devon fossil locality. Devon is renowned for its varied geological succession, and a specimen with documented locality and stage provides useful context for a collection. This ammonite therefore combines natural display appeal with a direct record of British Upper Cretaceous marine life.
AMMONITE BIOLOGY AND SHELL MORPHOLOGY
Hyphoplites was an extinct marine cephalopod related to modern squid, cuttlefish and nautiluses. Its coiled shell was divided internally into chambers. The animal occupied the final outer chamber, while older sealed chambers helped regulate buoyancy. As it grew, the ammonite added new shell material at the opening and formed progressively larger internal partitions.
Hyphoplites ammonites are generally recognised by their compact coiled shells and distinctive ribbing. The species falcatus belongs to the diverse ammonite fauna of Cenomanian seas. Its shell ornament and proportions help distinguish it within the group. The preserved coil, natural matrix and visible surface detail of this specimen provide a tangible record of the original morphology.
Ammonites evolved rapidly and were widely distributed, so characteristic species are important for correlating and dating marine rock layers. Their varied shell designs also demonstrate the evolutionary success of chambered cephalopods before their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous.
Every fossil is naturally individual. Variations in mineral colour, preservation, attached matrix, small losses and surface character are authentic geological features rather than manufacturing flaws. Please inspect all photographs carefully because they show the exact specimen supplied. Full dimensions are provided in the measurement photograph so its size and display proportions can be assessed accurately.
COLLECTING AND EDUCATIONAL VALUE
This British ammonite is an appealing addition to a collection focused on Cretaceous marine life, ammonite evolution, Devon geology or named cephalopod species. Its Hyphoplites falcatus identification, Cenomanian age and Shapwick Grange provenance make it suitable for an organised study cabinet. It can also serve as an educational example of chambered shell construction, fossilisation, extinction and biostratigraphy.
Its natural coiled form makes it a distinctive display fossil and a thoughtful gift for a fossil enthusiast or geology student.
GENUINE SPECIMEN WITH CERTIFICATE
This is an authentic fossil, not a replica or cast. The exact piece pictured is supplied and will be carefully packed to protect its natural detail. It includes a generic Certificate of Authenticity card backed by our lifetime authenticity guarantee.
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