Description
Micraster coranguinum Fossil Echinoid from Kent, UK
This listing features a genuine Micraster coranguinum fossil echinoid, sourced from the world-famous Cretaceous chalk deposits of Kent, England. The fossil represents one of the most iconic echinoids of the Upper Cretaceous, with a distinctive heart-shaped form that captures the evolutionary adaptations of irregular sea urchins. The specimen photographed is the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included to show precise size. As with all our specimens, this echinoid is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Context and Age
The fossil dates to the Upper Cretaceous period, approximately 90–80 million years ago, when large areas of southern England were covered by warm, shallow seas. These seas were low in sediment input, allowing thick beds of chalk to accumulate from the microscopic remains of coccolithophores (calcareous algae).
Kent’s chalk cliffs and inland deposits are among the most significant fossil-bearing localities in Europe. They have yielded some of the best-preserved examples of Micraster coranguinum, which is a hallmark of these chalk formations.
Species and Scientific Classification
- Genus: Micraster
- Species: coranguinum
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Spatangoida
- Family: Micrasteridae
Micraster coranguinum is an irregular echinoid belonging to the order Spatangoida. Unlike regular echinoids such as Echinocorys or Cidaris, spatangoids developed an asymmetrical, heart-shaped body adapted for burrowing beneath the seafloor in soft chalk sediments.
Morphological Features
This specimen of Micraster coranguinum shows the classic adaptations of the species, including:
- Test Shape: A distinctive heart-shaped profile with a flattened base for stability in soft sediment.
- Ambulacral Petals: Narrow petaloid grooves on the dorsal surface, used for respiration through tube feet.
- Peristome and Periproct: The mouth located on the underside and the anus positioned toward the posterior margin, an arrangement typical of burrowing echinoids.
- Surface Details: Fine chalk preservation highlights subtle plate structures and growth features.
These adaptations made Micraster highly successful in the chalk seas, enabling it to live just beneath the sediment surface where it fed on organic detritus.
Scientific and Stratigraphic Importance
Micraster coranguinum is one of the most important biostratigraphic index fossils of the Late Cretaceous chalk in Europe. Its distinctive morphology, wide distribution, and well-defined stratigraphic range make it invaluable for dating and correlating chalk layers across southern England, France, and other parts of northern Europe.
The species is also central to paleontological studies on echinoid evolution, as it represents an advanced stage of adaptation to infaunal lifestyles. Its variations in form have been used to interpret evolutionary pathways and paleoenvironmental conditions.
Collector and Display Value
- Collectors prize Micraster coranguinum for its scientific significance and its elegant, heart-shaped form.
- Educational use benefits from its role as a classic Cretaceous fossil, perfect for illustrating evolution, adaptation, and geology.
- Display appeal lies in its pleasing symmetry, smooth chalk preservation, and its historical connection to Britain’s natural heritage.
Authenticity and Guarantee
This fossil has been carefully chosen for quality and preservation. It is guaranteed 100% authentic and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its geological context and provenance from Kent, UK.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Echinoid (Sea Urchin)
- Species: Micraster coranguinum
- Geological Age: Upper Cretaceous (~90–80 million years old)
- Formation: Chalk
- Locality: Kent, United Kingdom
- Order: Spatangoida
- Family: Micrasteridae
- Condition: Well-preserved fossil echinoid with distinctive morphology
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This Micraster coranguinum fossil echinoid from Kent’s Cretaceous chalk is an iconic specimen that beautifully combines scientific importance with natural beauty, making it an outstanding addition to any fossil collection.
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