Ichthyosaur Fossil Vertebra Jurassic Lyme Regis Dorset UK Lower Lias Black Ven

Description

Authentic Ichthyosaur Vertebra from the Jurassic Coast

Offered here is a genuine Ichthyosaur fossil reptile vertebra recovered from the renowned Black Ven Marls, Black Ven, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, on England’s world-famous Jurassic Coast. This specimen has been carefully selected for its integrity, clarity, and strong anatomical character. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, allowing you to assess quality and preservation with confidence. 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 Age

This vertebra 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 are composed of fine marine mudstones and marls formed in a shallow epicontinental sea that covered much of southern Britain at the time. This formation is internationally significant for its abundance of marine reptiles, particularly ichthyosaurs, and is central to our understanding of Early Jurassic marine ecosystems. Ongoing coastal erosion at Black Ven continues to reveal exceptionally preserved vertebrate fossils.

Fossil Type and Anatomical Identification

The fossil preserved here is an ichthyosaur vertebra, part of the spinal column of a fast-swimming marine reptile. Ichthyosaurs were highly specialised predators, adapted for life in open seas with streamlined bodies and powerful tails. Their vertebrae are typically short, disk-shaped, and amphicoelous, designed to support a flexible spine capable of strong lateral movement during swimming. Vertebrae such as this are key diagnostic elements, providing insight into locomotion, body structure, and evolutionary adaptation.

Morphology and Preservation

This specimen displays the characteristic circular to sub-circular centrum typical of ichthyosaur vertebrae, with clear definition between the centrum and surrounding matrix. Natural mineralisation has enhanced durability while preserving surface texture and anatomical form. The fossil’s three-dimensional preservation allows the overall shape and proportions of the vertebra to be clearly appreciated. Retention within original sediment further supports authenticity and adds to its visual and scientific appeal.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Charmouth and Lyme Regis area lay beneath a warm, shallow marine environment rich in ammonites, fish, and marine reptiles. Fine sediments settled slowly on the sea floor, enabling vertebrate remains to be buried before significant disturbance. Periodic low-oxygen conditions reduced scavenging and decay, contributing to the preservation of isolated bones such as vertebrae. These environmental conditions are responsible for the exceptional concentration of ichthyosaur material found within the Black Ven Marls.

Collecting, Display, and Educational Value

This Ichthyosaur fossil vertebra 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 linked to the early foundations of palaeontology. 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 important fossil localities.