RARE Dactylioceras Orthodactylites semicelatum Ammonite Fossil Toarcian Jurassic UK

Description

Rare Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum Ammonite Fossil from Scunthorpe, UK

This is a rare and authentic ammonite fossil of the species Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum, dating back to the Toarcian stage of the Early Jurassic period (approximately 182–174 million years ago). Collected from Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom, this specimen represents one of the most significant ammonite types for stratigraphic correlation in Jurassic geology. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, alongside a 1 cm scale cube for size reference. Each fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing that this is a genuine piece of natural history.

Geological Context

• Geological Period: Jurassic
• Stage: Toarcian (Early Jurassic, ~182–174 million years ago)
• Provenance: Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
• Depositional Environment: Marine sediments of the Lias Group

During the Toarcian stage, much of modern-day Lincolnshire was covered by a warm, shallow sea. Fine sediments of mud and clay accumulated on the sea floor, providing ideal conditions for the preservation of marine life, especially ammonites. The Lias Group of Scunthorpe is particularly famous for yielding well-preserved specimens of Dactylioceras, making this piece not only scientifically important but also highly collectable.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Eoderoceratoidea
• Family: Dactylioceratidae
• Genus: Dactylioceras
• Subgenus: Orthodactylites
• Species: Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum

This ammonite belongs to the Dactylioceratidae family, a group characterised by strongly ribbed shells that are important in Jurassic stratigraphy. The subgenus Orthodactylites is notable for its distinctive shell features and well-documented stratigraphic range.

Morphological Features

The Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum fossil is identifiable by its:

• Strong, closely spaced ribs extending across the flanks and ventral side.
• Moderately involute coiling with whorls partially covering the previous ones.
• Distinctive ornamentation that provides both aesthetic appeal and scientific identification.
• Planispiral form, perfectly adapted for buoyancy and movement in ancient Jurassic seas.

These features not only highlight its beauty as a display fossil but also make it an invaluable reference specimen for stratigraphers and palaeontologists.

Scientific and Collecting Significance

The species Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum is an important index fossil, meaning it is used by geologists to precisely date rock layers of the Early Jurassic. The narrow stratigraphic range of this ammonite makes it essential for correlating Toarcian strata across Europe. Its presence in the fossil record provides insights into ammonite evolution, marine ecosystems, and palaeogeography during the Jurassic period.

For collectors, this specimen is highly sought after due to:

• Its rarity in well-preserved condition.
• Its provenance from Scunthorpe, a classic British fossil locality.
• Its historical and scientific importance as a diagnostic ammonite species.

Key Details

• Fossil Type: Ammonite (Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum)
• Age: Toarcian, Early Jurassic (~182–174 million years old)
• Location: Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
• Features: Strong ribbing, classic ammonite planispiral coiling
• Authenticity: Guaranteed genuine, supplied with Certificate of Authenticity

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens, carefully chosen for their preservation, scientific importance, and display appeal. This ammonite fossil has been prepared to reveal its natural beauty, showcasing the ribbed shell structure typical of the species. The Certificate of Authenticity ensures complete confidence in its provenance.

This rare Dactylioceras (Orthodactylites) semicelatum ammonite fossil from Scunthorpe is an exceptional addition to any fossil collection. It embodies both scientific value and natural artistry, offering collectors a chance to own a remarkable piece of Earth’s Jurassic history.