Pseudolioceras Fossil Ammonite Jurassic Whitby Runswich Bay UK Middle Lias Genuine Specimen

Description

Genuine Pseudolioceras Fossil Ammonite from Whitby, UK

This is a carefully chosen Pseudolioceras fossil ammonite sourced from the world-famous fossil beds of Runswick Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom. Known for their exceptional preservation, ammonites from this locality are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, ensuring complete transparency. Each specimen is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing that all of our fossils are 100% genuine and responsibly sourced.

Geological Age and Formation

This ammonite comes from the Middle Lias (Lower Jurassic) period, dating to around 180 million years ago. Specifically, Pseudolioceras species are associated with the Toarcian Stage, a stratigraphic interval that is internationally recognised for its rich ammonite assemblages. The Whitby coast, particularly around Runswick Bay, is part of the Cleveland Basin, where Jurassic shales and limestones preserve marine fossils in remarkable condition. These sediments formed in shallow seas, with alternating oxygen levels that favoured the preservation of marine life.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Pseudolioceras
• Family: Hildoceratidae
• Superfamily: Hildoceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Age: Middle Lias, Lower Jurassic (Toarcian Stage)
• Locality: Runswick Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire, UK

Morphological Features of Pseudolioceras

Pseudolioceras ammonites are distinctive and scientifically important for their role as index fossils within Jurassic stratigraphy. Key features include:

• A discoidal, compressed shell with fine, closely spaced ribbing.
• Strongly involute coiling, with inner whorls often hidden by later growth.
• A sharp keel running along the venter, aiding hydrodynamic efficiency.
• Fine ribbing that bifurcates from the umbilical seam, radiating across the flanks and enhancing the ammonite’s characteristic pattern.

These morphological traits make Pseudolioceras a beautiful display specimen while also providing palaeontologists with essential tools for dating rock layers.

Stratigraphic and Scientific Importance

Pseudolioceras ammonites are widely used in biostratigraphy to subdivide the Toarcian Stage of the Jurassic. Their restricted evolutionary range allows geologists to pinpoint layers of rock within a precise timeframe. Fossils like these are therefore not only of aesthetic value but also carry strong scientific importance, helping researchers to reconstruct past climates, sea levels, and marine ecosystems.

Depositional Environment and Preservation

During the Early Jurassic, the Whitby region was a shallow marine environment situated within a broad epicontinental sea. Ammonites such as Pseudolioceras were active nektonic predators, preying upon small fish, crustaceans, and plankton. After death, their shells often sank to the seabed and were quickly buried by fine sediments. The reduced oxygen levels of the seafloor environment inhibited scavenging and decay, allowing delicate ribbing and shell structure to remain preserved in shale and limestone over millions of years.

Collector’s Value and Display Appeal

This Pseudolioceras fossil ammonite represents a timeless piece of Earth’s history. Its fine ribbing, sharp keel, and elegant coiling embody the distinctive characteristics of the genus. Fossils from Whitby have long been prized by collectors due to their beauty, historical importance, and role in British palaeontological heritage. This specimen is ideal for fossil enthusiasts, educators, or anyone seeking a scientifically significant and visually striking display piece.

Item Details

• Fossil Type: Ammonite – Pseudolioceras
• Age: Middle Lias, Lower Jurassic (Toarcian Stage, approx. 180 million years)
• Location: Runswick Bay, Whitby, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
• Features: Fine ribbing, compressed coiling, sharp keel
• Scale: Rule squares/cube = 1 cm (see photos for full sizing)
• Certificate: Includes a Certificate of Authenticity
• Specimen Shown: The actual fossil pictured is the one you will receive

A genuine Pseudolioceras ammonite fossil from Whitby – a scientifically important and beautifully preserved example of Jurassic marine life, perfect for display or collection.