Paralcidia glabella Ammonite Fossil Rare Middle Oxfordian Jurassic Woodham UK Genuine

Description

Authentic Paralcidia glabella Ammonite Fossil from Oxfordian England

This listing offers a rare Paralcidia glabella ammonite fossil from the Middle Oxfordian stage of the Jurassic period, discovered in Woodham, United Kingdom. Dating back around 160 million years, this specimen represents an exceptional example of a species that thrived in the warm shallow seas of the Late Jurassic. Carefully chosen for its preservation, detail, and scientific interest, this ammonite fossil combines geological significance with natural beauty.

Each fossil is photographed with a 1 cm scale cube to provide precise measurements and to ensure you know exactly what you are purchasing. The photographs show the actual specimen you will receive, not a representative stock image. Every ammonite we offer is 100% genuine and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, giving you full confidence in its provenance.

Geological Context – Middle Oxfordian, Jurassic

The Oxfordian stage (approximately 163.5–157.3 million years ago) is the earliest division of the Late Jurassic and is renowned for its rich ammonite diversity. The Woodham deposits in the United Kingdom yield particularly well-preserved ammonite fossils, including Paralcidia glabella, which is highly sought after due to its relative rarity and distinct morphological traits.

During this time, much of Europe was covered by shallow epicontinental seas. These seas provided an ideal depositional environment where sediments of clay, marl, and limestone gradually accumulated and encased the shells of marine organisms. Over millions of years, these deposits lithified, preserving ammonites such as this specimen in remarkable detail.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Paralcidia
• Species: Paralcidia glabella
• Family: Perisphinctidae
• Superfamily: Perisphinctoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Geological Stage: Middle Oxfordian, Jurassic
• Locality: Woodham, United Kingdom

Distinctive Morphological Features

Paralcidia glabella is recognised by its distinctive shell form and ribbing style. Key features include:

• Planispiral coiling, producing a tightly wound disc-shaped shell typical of many Jurassic ammonites.
• Smoothened ribbing compared to other perisphinctids, giving the species its name “glabella,” meaning smooth or polished.
• A shell with relatively broad whorls, making the fossil visually striking when viewed from the side.
• Ornamentation that is subtle but diagnostic, distinguishing this ammonite from closely related species within the same family.

These characteristics not only made the ammonite hydrodynamically efficient in life but also contribute to its recognition as an important biostratigraphic marker in the Oxfordian stage.

Paleoecological Significance

As a nektonic marine predator, Paralcidia glabella lived actively in the water column, preying on smaller invertebrates and juvenile fish. Its buoyant chambered shell enabled it to regulate depth within the Jurassic seas, while its streamlined shape allowed for efficient movement. This species was part of a complex ecosystem that included marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs, alongside bivalves, gastropods, and echinoderms.

The presence of Paralcidia glabella in Woodham provides valuable evidence of the rich marine biodiversity that characterised Oxfordian seas and continues to assist paleontologists in refining biostratigraphic zonation of Jurassic strata.

Collector and Display Value

This specimen of Paralcidia glabella ammonite is a rare and scientifically significant fossil that will appeal to collectors, researchers, educators, and enthusiasts alike. Its excellent preservation, combined with its distinctive morphological traits, makes it a standout example of an Oxfordian ammonite.

Beyond its scientific importance, its naturally elegant coiling and ribbing lend it a striking visual appeal, making it suitable for both display and study. Whether showcased in a personal fossil collection, a teaching environment, or as a statement natural history piece in the home or office, this ammonite carries both aesthetic and historical value.

Key Details

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Species: Paralcidia glabella
• Age: Middle Oxfordian, Jurassic (c. 160 million years old)
• Origin: Woodham, United Kingdom
• Distinctive ribbing and shell morphology
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Photographed with 1 cm scale cube for accurate sizing

This rare Paralcidia glabella ammonite fossil from Woodham is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Britain’s Jurassic past, combining scientific significance with timeless natural beauty.