Description
OSPERLIOCERAS bicarinatum Ammonite Fossil – Middle Toarcian Stage, Early Jurassic, Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
This exceptional ammonite fossil is a rare specimen of Osperlioceras bicarinatum, a finely detailed cephalopod from the Middle Toarcian stage of the Early Jurassic, approximately 180 to 174 million years ago. Found in the world-famous fossil beds of Whitby, North Yorkshire, this specimen is a true classic from one of the UK’s most renowned palaeontological localities.
Fossil Type & Species:
- Type: Invertebrate Fossil (Ammonite Shell)
- Species: Osperlioceras bicarinatum
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
- Family: Hildoceratidae
- Described by: Fucini, early 20th century (species-level authority varies by region)
Geological & Stratigraphic Details:
- Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom
- Formation: Whitby Mudstone Formation
- Geological Stage: Middle Toarcian, Early Jurassic
- Age: ~180–174 million years ago
- Biozone: Serpentinum Zone or Bifrons Subzone (associated with the Osperlioceras range)
- Depositional Environment: Anoxic marine basin environment with fine-grained mudstone ideal for the preservation of ammonite shells and other marine fauna
Morphology & Features: This Osperlioceras bicarinatum specimen displays:
- Planispiral shell with compressed whorls and tightly coiled structure
- Distinctive bicarinate venter (double-keeled outer margin) for which the species is named
- Ribbed ornamentation across the flanks, finely spaced and curved
- Sharp suture patterns often visible on well-preserved or slightly polished specimens
- Preserved in rich, dark grey to black mudstone matrix typical of Whitby fossils
Notable: Osperlioceras bicarinatum is an important index fossil used for dating and correlating Toarcian marine deposits. Fossils from Whitby are highly sought after due to their exceptional detail, historical importance, and aesthetic appeal. The site has been a focus of fossil collection since the early 19th century.
Specimen Details:
- Origin: Whitby, North Yorkshire, England, UK
- Species: Osperlioceras bicarinatum
- Fossil Type: Ammonite Shell (Invertebrate)
- Geological Stage: Middle Toarcian, Early Jurassic
- Size Reference: Scale rule square = 1cm (see photo for full specimen size)
- Note: The specimen pictured is the exact fossil you will receive
Authenticity & Quality: We guarantee all our fossils are 100% genuine, with no reconstruction or artificial enhancements. Each piece is carefully sourced and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
Why Choose This Fossil? Perfect for:
- Fossil and ammonite collectors
- Jurassic geological study and education
- Historical and museum-style displays
- Unique and scientifically valuable gifts
Shipping & Packaging: All specimens are securely packed with eco-conscious materials and sent with tracked delivery. We take special care to ensure fossils arrive safely and ready for display.
Own a beautifully preserved piece of Whitby’s fossil heritage with this authentic Osperlioceras bicarinatum ammonite from the Jurassic seas of Yorkshire.
All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
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