Ichthyosaur Coprolite Fossil Reptile Poo with Fish Bones Scales Black Ven Marls Lyme Regis Dorset UK

Description

Authentic Ichthyosaur Coprolite Fossil from the Jurassic Coast

This listing offers a rare Ichthyosaur coprolite (fossilised poo) containing inclusions of fish bones and scales, discovered in the Black Ven Marls, Lower Lias Formation, Jurassic Coast: Stonebarrow Cliff, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. This specimen provides a direct insight into the diet and feeding behaviour of one of the most iconic marine reptiles of the Early Jurassic.

The specimen was discovered on 15th September 2025 by our team members, Alister and Alison, and has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and stabilised by Alison. The item pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included in the photo for precise sizing. Every fossil is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring provenance and genuine value.

Geological Context

The Black Ven Marls form part of the famous Lower Lias, a rich fossil-bearing sequence dating to the Early Jurassic (approx. 200 million years ago). These marls and clays were deposited in a shallow marine environment, where abundant marine reptiles, ammonites, belemnites, and fish thrived. The fine sediment conditions were ideal for preserving delicate structures—including coprolites, which often retain evidence of undigested remains.

The Jurassic Coast, stretching across Dorset and East Devon, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stonebarrow Cliff at Charmouth is especially significant, having yielded countless fossil discoveries that have advanced palaeontology since the pioneering work of Mary Anning in the 19th century.

What Are Coprolites?

Coprolites are fossilised faeces, preserved over millions of years through mineralisation. Unlike body fossils such as bones or shells, coprolites offer rare and direct evidence of the diet, digestion, and ecosystem interactions of ancient animals.

In this specimen, you can see:

• Fish bones embedded within the matrix.
• Fish scales preserved in detail, highlighting the ichthyosaur’s piscivorous diet.
• Mineralised structure, giving it both durability and scientific importance.

About Ichthyosaurs

Ichthyosaurs were marine reptiles that lived during the Mesozoic Era, flourishing in the Jurassic seas. Belonging to the order Ichthyosauria, they evolved streamlined bodies resembling modern dolphins and were highly adapted for fast swimming. Their sharp, conical teeth and large eyes made them efficient predators of fish and cephalopods.

This coprolite provides a direct link to their feeding habits, showing that fish made up a substantial part of their diet. The presence of undigested remains like bones and scales tells us about their digestive process and prey choices.

Collector and Educational Value

This ichthyosaur coprolite is a fascinating and unusual addition to any fossil collection. Its significance lies not only in its rarity but also in the detailed inclusions it preserves:

• For collectors: A highly displayable specimen that represents a unique aspect of Jurassic palaeontology.
• For education: A teaching resource that vividly demonstrates how palaeontologists study prehistoric diets.
• For enthusiasts: A conversation piece with direct links to the life habits of ichthyosaurs.

A Unique Piece of Prehistoric Evidence

Owning a coprolite with inclusions is like holding a snapshot of ancient life. This specimen does not just represent an ichthyosaur—it represents a moment in time when the animal fed, digested, and passed waste, leaving behind fossil evidence that would be preserved for nearly 200 million years.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.