Rare Catacoeloceras jordani Fossil Ammonite Lower Toarcian Jurassic Aveyron France Genuine

Description

Rare Catacoeloceras jordani Fossil Ammonite from France

This listing features a rare Catacoeloceras jordani fossil ammonite, an exceptional specimen from the Lower Toarcian Stage of the Early Jurassic, discovered in Aveyron, France. Ammonites such as Catacoeloceras are highly valued for their distinct ribbing and unique coiling, representing one of the most diverse and scientifically important ammonite groups of the Jurassic seas. This particular specimen is guaranteed authentic and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact ammonite you will receive, with a 1 cm cube included for scale.

Geological Context and Age

The fossil originates from Aveyron, France, a region with extensive Early Jurassic marine deposits. The Lower Toarcian Stage (~182 million years ago) was a period of dynamic environmental change, including the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event, when large parts of the world’s oceans were depleted of oxygen. This event created ideal conditions for fossil preservation, allowing ammonites such as Catacoeloceras jordani to be preserved in remarkable detail.

These ammonites are considered important biostratigraphic markers, meaning they are widely used by geologists to correlate rock layers across different regions. The presence of Catacoeloceras jordani specifically indicates deposits within the early Toarcian, making this fossil not only a stunning collector’s piece but also one of scientific significance.

Scientific Classification

• Genus/Species: Catacoeloceras jordani
• Family: Dactylioceratidae
• Superfamily: Dactylioceratoidea
• Order: Ammonitida
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Geological Stage: Lower Toarcian, Early Jurassic (~182 million years ago)
• Provenance: Aveyron, France

Morphological Features

Catacoeloceras jordani is distinguished by its involute shell with compressed whorls and finely ribbed ornamentation. The ribs typically bifurcate as they extend across the flanks, while the venter (outer shell edge) often carries a strong keel, giving the fossil a strikingly defined appearance. These structural adaptations enhanced stability in the water column, aiding in active swimming.

The distinct ribbing and keeled venter are key identification features of this ammonite species, making it an important fossil for both collectors and paleontologists. Its natural symmetry and aesthetic form also make it a particularly attractive specimen for display.

Paleoenvironment and Ecology

During the Toarcian, southern France was submerged beneath a warm, shallow sea, part of the Tethys Ocean system. This marine environment supported an abundance of ammonites, marine reptiles, and other invertebrates. Catacoeloceras jordani was a nektonic predator, actively swimming and hunting for smaller marine organisms using its tentacles and efficient shell design.

The ammonite’s chambered shell provided buoyancy control, allowing it to navigate different depths of the ocean. Fossils from this period, particularly from Aveyron, capture the biodiversity of Jurassic seas and provide valuable insights into the ecosystems of nearly 200 million years ago.

Collectability and Significance

A rare Catacoeloceras jordani ammonite such as this is highly sought after by collectors, due to both its scientific importance and visual appeal. Its distinct morphological features, age, and provenance make it a centerpiece for any serious fossil collection.

• Type: Rare Fossil Ammonite – Catacoeloceras jordani
• Age: Lower Toarcian, Early Jurassic (~182 million years old)
• Location: Aveyron, France
• Scale Reference: 1 cm cube shown in photographs
• Authenticity: 100% genuine, Certificate of Authenticity included
• Specimen Guarantee: The ammonite shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive

This ammonite embodies the natural beauty and scientific heritage of the Jurassic seas, offering both collectors and enthusiasts an extraordinary piece of Earth’s history.