Description
Offered here is a rare and large Anahoplites planus Fossil Ammonite, measuring approximately 6.5 inches (165 mm) across, originating from the Lower Albian Stage of the Early Cretaceous, discovered at Small Dole, Sussex, United Kingdom.
This beautifully preserved specimen showcases exquisite detail in both ornamentation and suture pattern, making it a prime example of the Anahoplites genus and a highly collectible item for ammonite and Cretaceous fossil enthusiasts. It is a carefully selected and authentic fossil, professionally presented to highlight its scientific and aesthetic value.
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photograph. The accompanying photo includes a 1cm scale cube or grid for size reference. Please refer to the image for full sizing.
Geological and Taxonomic Information:
- Species: Anahoplites planus
- Fossil Type: Ammonite (extinct marine cephalopod)
- Age: Early Cretaceous, Lower Albian Stage (~113–110 million years ago)
- Formation: Gault Clay (marine claystone)
- Locality: Small Dole, West Sussex, England, United Kingdom
- Depositional Environment: Offshore marine shelf — deep, low-energy, muddy seafloor conditions
- Biozone: Commonly found within the Hoplites dentatus Zone of the Lower Albian
- Geological Stage: Albian (Lower Subdivision of the Early Cretaceous)
Taxonomic Classification:
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Hoplitoidea
- Family: Hoplitidae
- Genus: Anahoplites
- Species: Anahoplites planus
- First Described By: Spath, 1923
Morphology & Notable Features:
- Planispiral shell with a compressed whorl section
- Broad and flat flanks with fine, sharply defined ribs
- Prominent ventrolateral tubercles (nodes) and a flattened venter
- Complex ammonitic suture lines
- The species A. planus is especially noted for its relatively smooth appearance with straight, simple ribs, contrasting with more ornate Hoplitids
- Shell displays excellent three-dimensional preservation from marine clay deposits
Scientific & Collector Value:
Anahoplites planus is a classic ammonite from the Lower Albian stage and a key taxon for zonal biostratigraphy in southern England. Its presence in the Gault Clay formation, which is famous for yielding some of the best-preserved Albian ammonites in Europe, highlights its significance in both academic and private collections.
Large and well-preserved examples like this are uncommon, especially those retaining such excellent ribbing detail and size integrity. This particular fossil offers a rare glimpse into the rich marine ecosystems of the Early Cretaceous seas that once covered southern Britain.
Specimen Details:
- Approximate Size: 6.5 inches (165 mm)
- Matrix-free display specimen
- From a historical collecting site (Small Dole, Sussex) no longer easily accessible
- Ideal for collectors, researchers, or educational display
- Authenticity guaranteed with included Certificate of Authenticity
Ideal For:
- Fossil and natural history collectors
- Cretaceous period enthusiasts
- Educational institutions and museum displays
- Scientific reference collections
- Unique geological gifts
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