Rare Dimorphoplites niobe Ammonite Fossil Lower Albian Cretaceous Squeries Pit United Kingdom Authentic Certified

Description

Rare Dimorphoplites niobe Ammonite Fossil

This listing is for a rare Dimorphoplites niobe ammonite fossil, originating from the Lower Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected from Squeries Pit in the United Kingdom. This exceptional fossil represents a scientifically significant ammonite species, making it highly sought after by collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts alike. The specimen offered here is the exact fossil shown in the photographs, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate measurement. Like all our specimens, it is 100% genuine and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context

The Lower Albian (around 113–110 million years ago) was a dynamic interval within the Early Cretaceous, characterized by widespread marine transgressions. During this period, southern England was submerged under a warm epicontinental sea connected to the Tethys Ocean. Fine sediments deposited in this environment preserved a wealth of ammonites, belemnites, and other marine organisms.

Squeries Pit is a notable fossil locality in the UK, yielding a variety of ammonites that are critical to understanding the Albian stratigraphy. Ammonites from this level serve as important index fossils, allowing geologists to refine the biostratigraphic framework of the Albian across Europe and beyond.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitaceae
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Genus: Dimorphoplites
• Species: Dimorphoplites niobe

As part of the Hoplitidae family, Dimorphoplites shows the robust ornamentation and structural adaptations typical of early Albian ammonites. D. niobe is one of the defining taxa for certain Lower Albian biozones, making it invaluable both scientifically and stratigraphically.

Morphological Features

Dimorphoplites niobe is distinguished by its moderately involute, compressed shell with strong ribbing that extends radially across the flanks to the ventral region. Ribs often bifurcate or exhibit variation in spacing, giving rise to the “dimorphic” character of the genus. These ribs provide both strength and hydrodynamic efficiency, reflecting the ammonite’s adaptation to a marine predator lifestyle. In some specimens, tuberculation may be observed along the umbilical shoulder, adding to its visual appeal and identification value.

Scientific and Collector Value

This ammonite species is a classic marker for the Lower Albian succession and plays a crucial role in correlating strata across northern Europe. Its presence helps paleontologists and geologists establish detailed biostratigraphic zones, contributing to the global geologic timescale. For collectors, Dimorphoplites niobe offers not only a scientifically valuable specimen but also a beautifully ornamented fossil, showcasing the remarkable evolutionary complexity of Cretaceous ammonites.

Provenance and Authenticity

Collected at Squeries Pit, United Kingdom, this specimen carries the provenance of one of Britain’s historically significant fossil localities. Each fossil we offer is carefully selected, fully authentic, and guaranteed with a Certificate of Authenticity. The specimen you see in the photographs is exactly the one you will receive, ensuring transparency and trust in your purchase.

This rare Dimorphoplites niobe ammonite fossil is both a striking collector’s piece and a scientifically important specimen. With its unique morphology and origin in the fossil-rich Albian strata of England, it stands as a genuine link to the Early Cretaceous seas and the evolutionary history of ammonites.