Ichthyosaur Fossil Humerus Bone in Block Jurassic Lyme Regis Dorset UK Lower Lias

Description

Authentic Ichthyosaur Limb Bone from the Jurassic Coast

Offered here is a genuine Ichthyosaur fossil humerus bone preserved in its original block, recovered from the renowned Black Ven Marls at Black Ven, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, along England’s world-famous Jurassic Coast. This is a carefully chosen specimen that preserves an articulated limb element within the surrounding matrix, providing both scientific context and strong visual presence. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, and 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 confidence in provenance and long-term collectability.

Geological Formation and Age

This ichthyosaur bone 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 comprise fine-grained marine mudstones and marls laid down in a shallow epicontinental sea that covered southern Britain at the time. This formation is internationally important for its marine reptile fossils, particularly ichthyosaurs, and is central to our understanding of Early Jurassic marine ecosystems. Continuous coastal erosion at Black Ven regularly exposes new material, making this locality one of the most productive marine reptile sites in Europe.

Fossil Type and Anatomical Identification

The fossil preserved within this block is an ichthyosaur humerus, a robust upper limb bone forming part of the paddle-like forelimb used for propulsion. Ichthyosaurs were highly adapted marine reptiles, exhibiting streamlined bodies and powerful limbs modified into flippers. The humerus is a key diagnostic element, typically short and thickened, reflecting its role in transmitting muscular force during swimming. Limb bones such as this provide valuable insight into locomotion and biomechanics in early marine reptiles.

Morphology and Preservation

This specimen displays the characteristic expanded proximal and distal ends typical of ichthyosaur humeri, with a compact shaft adapted for strength rather than length. The bone is preserved in situ within the original marl matrix, maintaining its geological context and enhancing its scientific and display value. Surface textures and natural mineralisation are visible, highlighting the fossil’s authenticity and age. Preservation within a solid block also offers protection and stability, making the specimen suitable for handling and long-term display.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Lyme Regis and Charmouth region lay beneath a warm, shallow marine environment rich in cephalopods, fish, and marine reptiles. Fine sediments settled slowly on the sea floor, allowing vertebrate remains to be buried before significant disturbance. Periodic low-oxygen conditions reduced scavenging and decay, contributing to the preservation of articulated bones and skeletal elements. These conditions explain the abundance of ichthyosaur remains within the Black Ven Marls and their frequent preservation within sediment blocks.

Collecting, Display, and Educational Value

This Ichthyosaur fossil humerus bone in block is ideal for serious fossil collectors, educational collections, museum displays, or statement interior presentation. Its classic British provenance, clear anatomical identification, and well-documented geological context make it both scientifically informative and visually compelling. Ichthyosaur fossils from Lyme Regis are historically significant, closely associated with the early development of palaeontology in Britain. Each specimen we offer is individually selected, ensuring you receive an authentic and carefully curated piece of Early Jurassic marine reptile history from one of the world’s most celebrated fossil localities.