Ichthyosaur Fossil Reptile Vertebra Bone Black Ven Marls Lower Lias Jurassic Coast Lyme Regis Dorset UK Authentic Specimen

Description

Authentic Ichthyosaur Vertebra from the Jurassic Coast

This listing offers a genuine Ichthyosaur fossil reptile vertebra bone from the world-famous Black Ven Marls, Lower Lias, Jurassic Coast: Black Ven, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. This beautifully preserved specimen dates back to the Early Jurassic Period (approximately 195–200 million years ago) and represents a remarkable piece of natural history from Britain’s most celebrated fossil locality.

Discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 22 September 2025, the fossil has been professionally cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to ensure both preservation and display quality. Every photograph shows the actual specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate measurement. As with all our fossils, it is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for guaranteed provenance.

Geological and Stratigraphic Context

The Black Ven Marls, part of the Lower Lias Group, are among the most fossiliferous Jurassic deposits in the world. These layers are exposed along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, an area designated for its extraordinary geological significance and wealth of fossils.

Deposited in shallow marine environments, the Black Ven Marls consist of alternating clays and limestones that preserved the remains of marine reptiles, ammonites, belemnites, and other sea creatures in exquisite detail. Fossils from this formation are essential for understanding Early Jurassic marine ecosystems and are highly sought after by both collectors and scientists.

About Ichthyosaurs

Ichthyosaurs were large marine reptiles that dominated the oceans during the Triassic and Jurassic periods. Belonging to the order Ichthyosauria, these creatures were highly adapted to life in the sea, with streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and large eyes for hunting in deep or murky waters.

The vertebra offered here would have formed part of the backbone of an ichthyosaur, supporting its flexible, fish-like body. Vertebrae such as this are highly characteristic, often showing the concave surfaces known as amphicoelous centra, which allowed strength and flexibility for efficient swimming.

Ichthyosaurs were top predators in Jurassic seas, feeding on fish, squid, and other marine reptiles. Their fossils are invaluable to palaeontologists, providing insights into the adaptation and evolution of marine reptiles.

Morphological Features of the Vertebra

This specimen displays the typical cylindrical shape and concave articulating ends of an ichthyosaur vertebra. The preservation reveals fine details of the bone structure, offering both aesthetic and scientific appeal. The mineralisation within the Black Ven Marls has ensured that the bone retains a strong, durable composition while retaining its natural texture.

The size and preservation of the vertebra make it an attractive piece for collectors. Whether displayed as a standalone fossil or within a broader collection of marine reptile remains, it offers both historical and scientific significance.

Collector and Scientific Significance

Fossils from Lyme Regis are closely associated with the pioneering fossil collector Mary Anning, whose discoveries in the early 19th century transformed our understanding of prehistoric life. Owning a specimen from this world-renowned location connects collectors directly to that history.

Ichthyosaur vertebrae from the Black Ven Marls are prized not only for their rarity but also for their role in reconstructing the anatomy of these magnificent reptiles. They are vital reference points in palaeontological research and equally valuable as display specimens for private collections, museums, or educational purposes.

A Rare and Genuine Jurassic Coast Fossil

This Ichthyosaur fossil reptile vertebra bone is a true piece of British natural history. Carefully prepared and presented with guaranteed provenance, it embodies the mystery and beauty of the Jurassic seas.

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