Description
Authentic Jurassic Ammonite Fossil
This listing features a genuine Canavarella bellophorum Ammonite Fossil from the Middle Bajocian Stage of the Jurassic, discovered at Burton Bradstock, United Kingdom. Ammonites were extinct marine cephalopods belonging to the subclass Ammonoidea, closely related to squid and cuttlefish. Their distinctive spiral shells with complex internal chambers are among the most iconic fossils, valued both for their scientific significance and aesthetic appeal. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate sizing.
Geological Context – Middle Bajocian, Jurassic
The Bajocian Stage, dating to around 170–168 million years ago, is a division of the Middle Jurassic. It was a time of widespread shallow seas across Europe, with England’s Jurassic Coast – including Burton Bradstock in Dorset – preserving some of the finest fossil-bearing strata in the world.
The Middle Bajocian is particularly rich in ammonites, which serve as important index fossils for this time interval. Their rapid evolutionary cycles and global distribution make them indispensable for correlating rock layers and constructing the Jurassic timescale. Burton Bradstock is part of the renowned Dorset coast, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its exceptional preservation of Jurassic life.
Species Profile – Canavarella bellophorum
The species Canavarella bellophorum belongs to the family Stephanoceratidae, within the superfamily Stephanoceratoidea and order Ammonitida. Ammonites of this group are recognised for their robust forms and intricate ribbing, which makes them highly diagnostic for Middle Jurassic strata.
Key identifying features of Canavarella bellophorum include:
- A robust, moderately involute shell with visible inner whorls.
- Strong, radial ribbing that often bifurcates or trifurcates across the flanks.
- A wide umbilicus, displaying earlier whorls prominently.
- A rounded to subangular venter with ribs extending uninterrupted across it.
- Well-defined suture patterns showing the complex internal chamber divisions.
These features make Canavarella bellophorum an excellent species for stratigraphic identification and an attractive specimen for collectors.
Paleoenvironment and Scientific Importance
During the Middle Jurassic, the area that is now Burton Bradstock was covered by warm, shallow seas rich in marine life. Ammonites like Canavarella bellophorum lived as nektonic predators, swimming actively through the water column and feeding on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. Upon death, their shells sank to the seabed, where rapid burial in fine sediments ensured their preservation for over 168 million years.
The scientific importance of Canavarella bellophorum lies in its role as a biozonal marker for Middle Bajocian strata. Its restricted stratigraphic range allows paleontologists to precisely date rock formations in the UK and beyond, making it an invaluable fossil for research as well as a striking piece for display.
100% Genuine with Certificate of Authenticity
All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. This ensures your ammonite is a true Jurassic fossil from Burton Bradstock and not a cast or reproduction.
A Collector’s and Display Fossil
This Canavarella bellophorum ammonite fossil from the Middle Bajocian of Burton Bradstock, UK is a superb specimen for any collector, educator, or natural history enthusiast. Its robust morphology, provenance from a world-famous fossil site, and scientific importance make it an excellent addition to any collection or display.
Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1 cm. Please see listing photos for the full sizing of this exact specimen.
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