Rare Dufrenoyia furcata Ammonite Fossil Lower Aptian Cretaceous Guane Colombia Authentic Certified Fossil

Description

Rare Dufrenoyia furcata Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Dufrenoyia furcata ammonite fossil, dating to the Lower Aptian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected in the renowned fossil beds of Guane, Colombia. This specimen represents a highly distinctive ammonite of the Early Cretaceous seas, known for its strong ribbing and scientific importance in biostratigraphy. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate measurement. As with all of our fossils, this is a 100% genuine specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Aptian Stage (approximately 125–113 million years ago) is a key subdivision of the Early Cretaceous. The Lower Aptian, in particular, is an interval of significant evolutionary change, with high global sea levels, warm climates, and flourishing marine life. The fossil-bearing strata of Guane, Colombia, are internationally known for their superb preservation of Aptian ammonites, making them one of the most important Cretaceous localities in South America. Marine sediments from this region, composed primarily of limestones and shales, reflect shallow marine environments where ammonites thrived alongside other invertebrates and early marine reptiles.

Taxonomy and Classification

Dufrenoyia furcata belongs to the genus Dufrenoyia, within the family Parahoplitidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. Ammonites of this family are well recognised for their robust shells, marked ribbing, and evolutionary role during the Aptian Stage. Dufrenoyia furcata is especially significant as an index fossil, defining specific ammonite zones of the Lower Aptian and helping geologists establish precise correlations of marine rock sequences across Europe, Africa, and South America. Its distinct morphology makes it both scientifically valuable and highly collectible.

Morphological Features

The shell of Dufrenoyia furcata is evolute, with earlier whorls visible and a bold sculptural ornamentation. Strong, bifurcating ribs radiate across the flanks, often dividing into secondary ribs that sweep toward the venter. This branching ribbing gives the species its name (furcata, meaning forked) and provides a striking and easily recognisable appearance. The venter is typically broad, with ribs crossing cleanly, enhancing the symmetry and diagnostic traits of the species. This specimen preserves these ribbing patterns clearly, making it a superb example for both collectors and researchers.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites like Dufrenoyia furcata are crucial for biostratigraphy of the Lower Aptian. Their restricted stratigraphic distribution and diagnostic ornamentation make them excellent index fossils for dating and correlating Cretaceous deposits worldwide. For collectors, specimens from Guane, Colombia, are particularly prized due to their rarity, excellent preservation, and provenance from one of the most significant Aptian ammonite localities. This fossil offers both scientific value and aesthetic appeal, making it a highly desirable specimen for private or institutional collections.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil was collected in Guane, Colombia, a site celebrated for its Early Cretaceous ammonite faunas. Every specimen we offer is carefully selected for quality, preservation, and authenticity. Each comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete confidence in its value. Secure professional packaging and shipping ensure that your fossil arrives safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Dufrenoyia furcata ammonite fossil from the Lower Aptian of Colombia, combining rarity, scientific importance, and striking morphology. A remarkable addition to any collection of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.