Ludwigia murchisonae Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Middle Bajocian Dorset Coast UK Certified | Rare Burton Bradstock Collectible Specimen

Description

Authentic Ludwigia murchisonae Fossil Ammonite from Dorset

This listing presents a superb Ludwigia murchisonae fossil ammonite, collected from the Middle Bajocian stage of the Jurassic, Burton Bradstock, Dorset Coast, United Kingdom. Ammonites like Ludwigia are iconic fossils from the Jurassic seas and remain some of the most sought-after specimens among collectors and researchers alike. The specimen shown is the exact fossil you will receive, photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate measurement reference.

As with all our specimens, this fossil is 100% genuine and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, providing full assurance of its authenticity and provenance.

Geological Setting – Jurassic, Middle Bajocian Stage

The fossil dates from the Middle Bajocian stage of the Jurassic Period (approx. 170–168 million years ago). At this time, southern England was submerged beneath warm shallow seas, creating rich marine environments that supported an abundance of ammonites, bivalves, and marine reptiles.

The Burton Bradstock locality on the Dorset coast is part of the world-famous Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stretch of coastline is internationally recognised for its exceptional fossil record, with ammonites serving as crucial biostratigraphic markers that help geologists date and correlate Jurassic strata across Europe.

Fossil Type and Scientific Classification

• Species: Ludwigia murchisonae
• Genus: Ludwigia
• Family: Graphoceratidae
• Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida

This ammonite belongs to the Graphoceratidae, a family of Jurassic ammonites characterised by finely ribbed shells and distinctive coiling. Ludwigia murchisonae is one of the most important ammonites for defining the Bajocian biozones and is a well-recognised index fossil within Jurassic geology.

Morphological Features

This specimen of Ludwigia murchisonae displays several diagnostic features:

• A moderately involute, planispiral shell with compressed whorls.
• Regular, fine ribbing extending across the flanks and onto the venter (outer margin).
• A relatively narrow venter, often with rib terminations that highlight its hydrodynamic form.
• Well-defined suture lines marking the junctions of internal shell walls.

These features provided structural strength to the shell while maintaining a lightweight design, supporting buoyancy and mobility in the open seas. The ribbing and streamlined form suggest it was an active swimmer, preying on smaller marine animals.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ludwigia murchisonae is highly valued both as a scientific fossil and a collector’s piece. In palaeontology, it plays a key role in defining Bajocian ammonite zones, making it vital for stratigraphic dating and correlation. Its consistent presence across European Jurassic deposits means it has long been used as a reference fossil by geologists.

For collectors, this specimen represents a classic ammonite from the Dorset Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned worldwide for its fossil record. Its aesthetic ribbing and excellent preservation make it a striking display piece, while its scientific value ensures its place in any serious fossil collection.

Depositional Environment

The Middle Jurassic seas of southern England were shallow, warm, and rich in nutrients, dominated by carbonate sedimentation. Fine-grained deposits created perfect conditions for preserving ammonites in detail, capturing both their external shell ornamentation and internal features. These marine environments were home to diverse faunas, and ammonites such as Ludwigia murchisonae were important members of the ecosystem, playing a role in the food chain as swift-moving predators.

Guarantee of Authenticity

Every fossil we offer is 100% genuine, carefully chosen for its scientific importance and display appeal. Each comes with a Certificate of Authenticity to provide complete assurance of quality and provenance. The photographs show the actual specimen you will receive, with scale included for accurate sizing.

This Ludwigia murchisonae fossil ammonite from the Middle Bajocian Jurassic of Burton Bradstock, Dorset Coast is a rare and scientifically important specimen – a timeless example of Britain’s prehistoric marine heritage.