Description
Prodactylioceras davoei Fossil Ammonite from Whitby, United Kingdom
This listing is for a rare Prodactylioceras davoei fossil ammonite, dating to the Lower Pliensbachian stage of the Jurassic period. Discovered in the famous fossil beds of Whitby, Yorkshire, this specimen represents one of the classic ammonites of the British Jurassic. The fossil pictured is the exact one you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube shown for full size reference. Every specimen we sell is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Age and Origin – Lower Pliensbachian, Jurassic
This ammonite comes from the Lower Pliensbachian stage of the Early Jurassic, approximately 190–183 million years ago. During this time, Whitby and the surrounding Yorkshire coastline lay beneath warm, shallow seas. Fine mudstones and shales accumulated in these marine environments, forming the famous Whitby Mudstone Formation. These sediments created exceptional conditions for fossil preservation, capturing ammonites in remarkable detail.
The Whitby area is one of the most celebrated fossil localities in Europe, known worldwide for its ammonites, belemnites, and marine reptile remains. Specimens such as this one highlight the rich palaeontological heritage of the Yorkshire coast.
Species and Classification
- Genus: Prodactylioceras
- Species: davoei
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Eoderoceratoidea
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
Prodactylioceras davoei belongs to the Dactylioceratidae, a family of ammonites that thrived during the Early Jurassic. These ammonites are crucial for biostratigraphic studies, as they occur in specific horizons that help define and date the Pliensbachian stage.
Morphological Features
The Prodactylioceras davoei ammonite is notable for several defining features:
- Coiling: Strongly involute, with inner whorls often partially hidden.
- Ribbing: Coarse, widely spaced ribs run across the whorls, sometimes branching toward the venter.
- Whorl shape: Thick, robust whorls with a broad profile, giving the fossil a solid appearance.
- Sutures: Complex and detailed suture lines, typical of advanced Jurassic ammonites.
These features not only give the fossil its striking appearance but also make it scientifically valuable, as they help palaeontologists identify and correlate fossiliferous strata.
Stratigraphic and Biozone Significance
Prodactylioceras davoei is the index fossil for the Davoei Zone, one of the key biozones of the Lower Pliensbachian. This makes it an essential species for dating Jurassic rock layers in Europe and beyond. Its use as a stratigraphic marker gives this specimen added importance beyond its visual appeal.
Collector and Scientific Value
This specimen holds dual appeal:
- For collectors, it offers a classic Whitby ammonite, prized for its size, preservation, and historic locality.
- For scientists and educators, it provides a reference fossil tied directly to an internationally recognised biozone.
- For display, its bold ribbing and robust form make it a striking and authentic addition to any fossil collection.
Authenticity and Quality Guarantee
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, responsibly sourced and carefully chosen. This Prodactylioceras davoei fossil ammonite has been prepared to highlight its natural features while ensuring authenticity. A Certificate of Authenticity is included with every purchase.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Ammonite
- Species: Prodactylioceras davoei
- Geological Age: Lower Pliensbachian, Jurassic (~190–183 million years old)
- Locality: Whitby, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- Family: Dactylioceratidae
- Order: Ammonitida
- Condition: Natural fossil with strong ribbing and robust form
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This Prodactylioceras davoei ammonite from Whitby is a scientifically important and visually striking specimen, offering both collectors and researchers an authentic piece of Britain’s Jurassic heritage.
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