Ichthyosaur Articulated Vertebrae Fossil Jurassic Lyme Regis Dorset UK Lower Lias

Description

Authentic Articulated Ichthyosaur Vertebrae from the Jurassic Coast

Offered here is a genuine Ichthyosaur fossil reptile articulated vertebrae specimen recovered from the renowned Black Ven Marls, Black Ven, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, on England’s world-famous Jurassic Coast. This specimen preserves multiple vertebrae still naturally articulated, providing a rare and scientifically informative glimpse into the spinal anatomy of one of the most iconic marine reptiles of the Jurassic. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, carefully chosen for clarity, integrity, and display quality. Full sizing details are shown in the photos.

This fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, ensuring long-term confidence in provenance and collectability.

Geological Formation and Geological Age

This articulated vertebral section originates from the Lower Lias Group, deposited during the Early Jurassic Period, approximately 199–191 million years ago, within the Sinemurian Stage. The Black Ven Marls consist of fine-grained marine mudstones and marls laid down in a shallow epicontinental sea that once covered much of southern Britain. These deposits are internationally important for their abundance of marine reptiles and have played a central role in shaping scientific understanding of Early Jurassic marine ecosystems.

Fossil Type and Species Context

Ichthyosaurs were highly specialised marine reptiles belonging to the Order Ichthyosauria, adapted for fast, efficient swimming in open seas. Their streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and flexible spines allowed them to dominate Jurassic marine environments. Articulated vertebrae are particularly valuable fossil material, as they preserve the natural relationship between individual bones and provide insight into spinal flexibility, locomotion, and overall body mechanics. Specimens from the Lower Lias are among the most historically significant ichthyosaur fossils in the world.

Morphology and Notable Features

The vertebrae preserved in this specimen display the classic short, disk-shaped, amphicoelous centra characteristic of ichthyosaurs. Their articulated arrangement clearly demonstrates how the vertebrae fitted together in life, illustrating the strong yet flexible spinal column that powered efficient swimming. Surface texture and natural mineralisation are visible, confirming authenticity and long geological history. Preservation within original marine sediment adds both scientific and aesthetic value, protecting the vertebrae while enhancing visual impact.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Charmouth and Lyme Regis area lay beneath a warm, shallow marine environment rich in ammonites, belemnites, fish, and marine reptiles. Fine sediments settled gradually on the sea floor, allowing vertebrate remains to be buried before significant disturbance occurred. Periodic low-oxygen conditions reduced scavenging and decay, enabling articulated skeletal elements such as this vertebral section to be preserved intact within the Black Ven Marls.

Collecting, Display, and Educational Value

This Ichthyosaur articulated vertebrae fossil is ideal for serious fossil collectors, educational institutions, museum displays, or statement interior presentation. Its articulated nature, classic British Jurassic provenance, and clear anatomical definition make it both scientifically important and visually compelling. Articulated ichthyosaur material from Lyme Regis is increasingly scarce and highly sought after worldwide. Each specimen we offer is individually selected to ensure you receive an authentic and carefully curated piece of Early Jurassic marine reptile history from one of the most important fossil localities on Earth.