Proleymeriella schrammeni Ammonite Fossil Rare Lower Albian Cretaceous Hannover Germany

Description

Rare Proleymeriella schrammeni Ammonite Fossil from Hannover, Germany

This striking Proleymeriella schrammeni ammonite fossil comes from the Lower Albian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in the Hannover region of northern Germany. Dating back approximately 113 to 109 million years, this specimen represents a remarkable piece of paleontological history. Carefully preserved and showcasing excellent detail, this ammonite is a rare and highly desirable addition to any fossil collection. The specimen pictured is the exact one you will receive, and it is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete assurance.

Geological Context – Lower Albian, Hannover

During the Lower Albian, northern Germany was submerged beneath a shallow, warm sea, part of the extensive epicontinental seaways that spread across Europe. The Hannover region is world-renowned for its fossiliferous deposits, particularly those preserving ammonites of great biostratigraphic importance. These sediments were laid down in a marine environment that allowed for exceptional preservation of ammonite shells, many of which still retain intricate details of their ribbing, whorls, and sutures.

Ammonites from Hannover, such as Proleymeriella, are important index fossils for the Albian, helping geologists to subdivide and correlate strata across Europe. Fossils from these layers provide key evidence of the evolutionary pathways of ammonites and the marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous seas.

Scientific Classification

• Fossil Type: Ammonite
• Genus: Proleymeriella
• Species: schrammeni
• Age: Lower Albian, Cretaceous (c. 113–109 million years ago)
• Locality: Hannover, Germany
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Leymerioidea
• Family: Leymeriellidae

Morphological Characteristics

This Proleymeriella schrammeni specimen displays several distinct features typical of the genus and family:

• Shell Shape: Strongly evolute with whorls that are clearly visible from the side, giving a broad and open coiling.
• Ribbing: Characterised by bold, widely spaced ribs that sweep across the flanks of the shell, often bifurcating or branching as they extend.
• Venter: The ribs continue cleanly over the venter, giving the fossil a robust and textured appearance.
• Whorl Section: Somewhat compressed with prominent ornamentation that enhances its display appeal.
• Sutures: Complex suture patterns, though not always visible to the naked eye, represent the intricate septal folding within the shell.

These traits reflect adaptations for buoyancy and movement within the shallow Cretaceous seas where this ammonite once thrived.

Paleontological Significance of Proleymeriella

The genus Proleymeriella is closely related to the broader family Leymeriellidae, which is recognised for its evolutionary innovations during the Lower Albian. Species such as P. schrammeni are invaluable to paleontologists for refining the ammonite zonation of the Albian stage. Their distinctive morphology and stratigraphic range make them excellent index fossils for correlating rock sequences across Europe.

As active marine cephalopods, ammonites like Proleymeriella were likely agile predators, preying upon small molluscs, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Their chambered shells allowed them to regulate buoyancy, enabling efficient navigation of the shallow seas that once covered the Hannover region.

The Depositional Environment of Hannover

The Lower Albian deposits of Hannover represent a marine setting where fine sediments accumulated on the seabed in low-energy conditions. These clays and marls often preserved the remains of marine fauna in remarkable detail. The presence of Proleymeriella schrammeni within these deposits indicates a thriving marine ecosystem, with ammonites, bivalves, and other molluscs forming a key part of the Cretaceous food chain.

Such fossils not only provide insight into the diversity of life during the Cretaceous but also illustrate the dynamic changes in sea level and marine environments that characterised the Albian stage.

Collector Value and Display

This Proleymeriella schrammeni ammonite fossil combines scientific importance, rarity, and natural beauty. Its bold ribbing, strong preservation, and provenance from the world-renowned Hannover deposits make it a significant acquisition for fossil enthusiasts, collectors, and museums alike.

The specimen has been photographed with a 1 cm scale cube to provide accurate sizing. As with all of our specimens, it is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring that it is a genuine and responsibly sourced fossil.

Key Details

• Fossil: Proleymeriella schrammeni Ammonite
• Age: Lower Albian, Early Cretaceous (c. 113–109 million years old)
• Location: Hannover, Germany
• Order: Ammonitida
• Family: Leymeriellidae
• Distinctive Traits: Bold ribbing, evolute coiling, strong morphological detail
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact specimen pictured with 1 cm scale cube

This is a rare chance to own a scientifically significant Proleymeriella schrammeni ammonite fossil from the Lower Albian of Hannover, Germany—a beautiful specimen that bridges natural history, science, and collectable artistry.