RARE Buchiceras bilobatum Ammonite Fossil Coniacian Cretaceous Peru Genuine Specimen with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

This listing offers a rare Buchiceras bilobatum ammonite fossil from the Coniacian stage of the Late Cretaceous, originating from Peru. Ammonites of this genus are prized for their distinct morphology and scarcity in the fossil record, making them sought-after by collectors and paleontologists alike. The specimen has been carefully chosen for its scientific and aesthetic value, and the photos show the exact fossil you will receive. A 1 cm scale cube is included in the images for accurate sizing reference.

As with all our specimens, this fossil is guaranteed to be 100% genuine and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity for your peace of mind.

Geological Age and Formation

The specimen dates to the Coniacian stage of the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 89–86 million years ago. This was a time when sea levels were exceptionally high, and much of present-day South America was submerged beneath epicontinental seas. The marine sediments deposited during this interval provide a rich record of invertebrate life, with ammonites being among the most abundant and diverse.

The Peruvian deposits where this ammonite was found are well known for their fine preservation, offering insights into the biodiversity of Cretaceous marine ecosystems.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthocerataceae
• Family: Buchiceratidae
• Genus: Buchiceras
• Species: Buchiceras bilobatum

This species is distinguished by its ribbing and lobed suture lines, features which not only make it visually striking but also key for taxonomic identification.

Morphological Features

The Buchiceras bilobatum ammonite displays several defining traits:

• A moderately involute shell with distinct bilobate ribbing, giving the species its name.
• Strongly ornamented whorls with alternating thick and thin ribs, enhancing its three-dimensional relief.
• Well-developed suture lines with intricate lobes and saddles, characteristic of advanced ammonites of the Coniacian.
• A robust shell adapted to open marine environments, providing both buoyancy control and structural strength.

These features illustrate the evolutionary adaptations of Cretaceous ammonites to diverse ecological niches.

Paleoenvironment and Depositional Context

During the Coniacian, Peru was part of a tropical marine realm, with warm, shallow seas extending across much of the region. The sediments in which this ammonite was preserved represent fine-grained marine deposits rich in calcareous material, ideal for fossilisation.

Ammonites like Buchiceras bilobatum played an important role in the marine food chain, acting as both predators and prey. Their presence in these deposits also makes them key biostratigraphic markers, helping geologists to correlate rock layers across different regions.

Collector and Display Value

This is a rare and scientifically significant specimen of Buchiceras bilobatum, making it an exceptional addition to any fossil collection. Its rarity, combined with its distinctive shell morphology and excellent preservation, ensures strong interest from both private collectors and institutions.

• Locality: Peru
• Age: Coniacian, Late Cretaceous (~89–86 million years old)
• Fossil Type: Ammonite, Buchiceras bilobatum

Perfect for display, research, or as a collector’s showcase piece, this ammonite is a direct link to the oceans of the Cretaceous world. With its Certificate of Authenticity, it represents both a secure investment and a beautiful example of natural history.