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

Description

Authentic Large Ichthyosaur Vertebra from the Jurassic Coast

Offered here is a genuine large Ichthyosaur fossil vertebra, a substantial marine reptile bone 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 impressive size, clear anatomical form, and strong visual presence. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, allowing full confidence in what is being offered. 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 lasting confidence in provenance and collectability.

Geological Formation and Geological 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-grained marine mudstones and marls laid down in a shallow epicontinental sea that once covered southern Britain. These deposits are internationally significant for their abundance of marine reptile fossils and have played a central role in the study of Jurassic marine ecosystems and vertebrate evolution.

Fossil Type and Species Context

Ichthyosaurs were highly specialised marine reptiles belonging to the Order Ichthyosauria, occupying the role of fast, pursuit predators in Jurassic seas. With streamlined bodies, powerful tails, and flexible spines, they were superbly adapted for open-ocean hunting. Vertebrae are among the most commonly preserved ichthyosaur elements, but large vertebrae such as this example are particularly desirable, as they reflect the impressive size and power of these animals. Specimens from the Lower Lias are historically important and closely linked to classic British palaeontological research.

Morphology and Notable Features

This specimen displays the characteristic short, disk-shaped centrum typical of ichthyosaur vertebrae, designed to allow strength and flexibility within the spinal column. The size of the centrum indicates a large individual, making this an especially striking example. Surface texture and natural mineralisation are visible, highlighting the fossil’s authenticity and long geological history. The three-dimensional preservation allows the proportions, curvature, and structural robustness of the vertebra to be clearly appreciated, making it suitable for both study and display.

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 slowly on the sea floor, allowing vertebrate remains to be rapidly buried after death. Periodic low-oxygen conditions reduced scavenging and decay, contributing to the preservation of isolated skeletal elements such as vertebrae. These conditions are responsible for the exceptional concentration and quality of ichthyosaur material found within the Black Ven Marls.

Collecting, Display, and Educational Value

This large Ichthyosaur vertebra fossil is ideal for serious fossil collectors, educational collections, museum displays, or statement interior presentation. Its substantial size, classic British provenance, and clear anatomical identification make it both scientifically informative and visually compelling. Ichthyosaur fossils from Lyme Regis are historically significant and increasingly scarce, particularly larger examples. 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.