Description
## Pygus michelini Echinoid Fossil
This genuine fossil echinoid is identified as Pygus michelini, a distinctive sea-urchin relative from the Inferior Oolite Group of Dorset, England. It comes from the celebrated Middle Jurassic exposures at Burton Bradstock, a classic coastal locality on the Jurassic Coast where marine sedimentary rocks preserve an exceptional window into life in ancient seas. The specimen shown is the exact fossil you will receive, carefully selected for its character and display appeal.
## Geological Age and Formation
The fossil dates to the Aalenian Stage of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 174 to 170 million years ago. During this time southern Britain lay beneath warm, shallow seas that supported rich communities of marine invertebrates. Sediment accumulated on the sea floor and later became the limestones and oolitic beds of the Inferior Oolite Group. Ooids, tiny rounded carbonate grains formed in agitated shallow water, are a hallmark of this geological setting and give the formation its historic name.
## Fossil Type and Features
Echinoids are members of the phylum Echinodermata, the same major group that includes starfish and crinoids. Their calcite skeleton, known as a test, is made of closely fitted plates. In life, an echinoid carried movable spines and used small tube feet for movement, feeding and interaction with its seabed environment. Pygus is an irregular echinoid, adapted to a life on or within marine sediment rather than the fully radial lifestyle often associated with modern rock-pool sea urchins. Its form provides a tangible connection with the changing ecology of Jurassic sea floors.
## Dorset Jurassic Coast Provenance
Burton Bradstock in Dorset is internationally admired by fossil collectors, geologists and museums for its accessible Jurassic strata. Fossils from this area are valued not only as attractive natural objects but also as evidence for the diverse marine ecosystems that flourished before the age of dinosaurs reached its later peak. This Pygus michelini specimen makes a thoughtful addition to a fossil cabinet, geology collection, educational display or gift for anyone fascinated by prehistoric life.
## Authenticity and Presentation
This is a genuine fossil specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card. Please see the photographs for full sizing, surface detail and condition. The photos show the actual carefully chosen fossil supplied, rather than a representative image. Natural fossils can retain the textures, mineral variation and ancient weathering that make every specimen individual. Its scientific identity, classic British Jurassic provenance and display-ready character make this echinoid a rewarding piece of Earth history.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.