Rare British Chalk Fossil Echinoid – Micraster normaniviae – Upper Turonian Cretaceous, White Nothe Dorset UK

Description

Available here is a rare and scientifically significant British Chalk Fossil Echinoid, identified as Micraster normaniviae. This genuine specimen comes from the Upper Turonian Stage of the Cretaceous Period, collected from the renowned chalk cliffs of White Nothe, Dorset, UK.

Taxonomic Classification:

• Order: Holasteroida
• Superfamily: Spatangoidea
• Family: Micrasteridae
• Genus & Species: Micraster normaniviae

Geological Context:

• Period: Cretaceous
• Stage: Upper Turonian (approx. 90–89 million years ago)
• Formation: Part of the White Chalk Subgroup (likely the lower New Pit Chalk Formation at this locality)
• Depositional Environment: Quiet, open-marine shelf settings. The chalk formed from the accumulation of coccolith ooze in warm, nutrient-rich waters with excellent preservation conditions for infaunal echinoids.

Morphological Features:

• Heart-shaped, elongate test with bilaterally symmetrical profile
• Distinct anterior sulcus and sunken petaloid ambulacra
• Adapted for burrowing with a flattened oral side and raised apical area
• Fine tuberculation and pore patterns preserved in well-kept specimens
• Infaunal lifestyle – lived buried in soft sediment feeding on organic material

Scientific & Historical Importance:

• Micraster normaniviae is a relatively rare species, first formally described in the 19th century, and forms part of a lineage useful in detailed biostratigraphy.
• Its occurrence helps define narrow time intervals (biozones) in the Upper Cretaceous chalk successions of southern England.

Locality Information:

• White Nothe, Dorset, UK – a classic coastal section of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, celebrated for its fossiliferous chalk and its important contributions to the study of Mesozoic marine life.

Authenticity & Display:

All of our fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. This listing includes actual photographs of the exact specimen you will receive. The scale cube = 1cm, and full dimensions can be seen in the image provided.

This is a carefully selected and rare specimen of Micraster normaniviae, offering scientific value, collector appeal, and a tangible connection to Britain’s ancient Cretaceous seas. Ideal for fossil collectors, educators, or anyone passionate about palaeontology and Earth’s geological history.

Secure a genuine piece of the Late Cretaceous today!