Micraster leskei Fossil Echinoid Chalk Cretaceous White Nothe Dorset UK Sea Urchin

Description

Authentic Micraster leskei Fossil Echinoid from White Nothe, Dorset

This listing offers a genuine Micraster leskei fossil echinoid from the Chalk deposits of the Cretaceous Period, discovered at White Nothe, Dorset, United Kingdom. Fossil echinoids of the genus Micraster are among the most iconic and scientifically important fossils of the English Chalk, highly valued for both their beauty and their use in geological research. This particular specimen has been carefully selected for its quality and clarity of preservation. Photographed with a 1 cm scale cube for reference, it comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing it as a 100% genuine fossil.

Geological Context

The Chalk Group of southern England, dating to the Cretaceous Period (approximately 145–66 million years ago), preserves vast records of marine life that thrived in warm, shallow epicontinental seas. The chalk was formed primarily from the microscopic calcium carbonate plates of coccolithophores, compacted over millions of years. White Nothe, situated along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site in Dorset, is a classic locality for chalk deposits and is particularly renowned for yielding exquisitely preserved echinoids such as Micraster leskei.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Echinodermata
• Class: Echinoidea
• Order: Spatangoida
• Family: Micrasteridae
• Genus: Micraster
• Species: Micraster leskei

Morphological Features

Micraster leskei is noted for its distinctive heart-shaped outline, a trait typical of spatangoid echinoids. The fossil test exhibits bilateral symmetry and well-developed petaloid ambulacra – star-shaped pore structures used for respiration through tube feet. The anterior groove is clearly developed, an adaptation aiding in directing sediment into the feeding structures. Its flattened underside reflects its adaptation to living semi-buried in chalky seafloor sediments, while its convex upper surface and posterior tapering are key identifying features of this species.

Paleoecology and Significance

As a deposit feeder, Micraster leskei burrowed within the chalk seafloor, processing sediments to extract organic matter. Its abundance within Cretaceous chalk layers highlights its role as a dominant organism of the chalk seas. Importantly, species of Micraster evolved relatively quickly, making them vital index fossils used in biostratigraphy to divide the chalk into precise biozones. This has helped geologists understand the timing and sequence of events across the Cretaceous period in Europe.

White Nothe and Its Fossil Heritage

The White Nothe cliffs are part of the Dorset coastline, world-famous for its fossil-rich strata. The chalk deposits here are particularly significant for their fossil echinoids, which are prized by both amateur collectors and professional paleontologists. Micraster leskei from White Nothe provides not only a fascinating insight into Cretaceous marine life but also a direct connection to the natural heritage of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Collectability and Display

This Micraster leskei specimen is both scientifically important and aesthetically appealing. Its elegant form and detailed preservation make it an ideal addition to fossil collections, educational displays, or natural history exhibits. The specimen serves as a conversation piece and a tangible link to marine ecosystems that flourished over 80 million years ago.

Guaranteed Authenticity

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive. This Micraster leskei echinoid from White Nothe, Dorset, is an exceptional example of Britain’s fossil heritage and an outstanding piece for collectors of Cretaceous marine life.