Description
100% Genuine Rare Epideroceras roberti Ammonite Fossil
This listing features a rare Epideroceras roberti ammonite fossil from the Upper Pliensbachian stage of the Jurassic period, discovered at St Peters Field, Radstock, Somerset, United Kingdom. The exact fossil shown in the photographs is the specimen you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube for accurate sizing. All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are provided with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Background – Upper Pliensbachian, Jurassic
The ammonite comes from the Upper Pliensbachian stage of the Early Jurassic, approximately 185 million years ago. During this time, southern Britain was covered by warm epicontinental seas, which supported thriving ecosystems of ammonites and other marine invertebrates. These seas deposited mudstones and limestones, forming part of the Lower Lias Group, one of the most fossil-rich geological units in Europe.
St Peters Field, Radstock, is a highly significant fossil locality, yielding ammonites from the Spinatum Zone of the Upper Pliensbachian. Fossils from this site have been critical in defining stratigraphic markers that are now used across Europe to date Jurassic deposits with great precision.
Fossil Type and Species – Epideroceras roberti
Epideroceras roberti is an extinct ammonite species within the order Ammonitida, superfamily Eoderoceratoidea, and family Eoderoceratidae. It is a rare and distinctive species, notable for its robust ornamentation and prominent ribbing. Specimens are not commonly encountered, making them highly sought after by collectors of Jurassic ammonites.
Ammonites such as Epideroceras were active, free-swimming cephalopods related to modern squid and cuttlefish. Their chambered shells acted as buoyancy devices, enabling them to move efficiently through the water column while hunting smaller prey.
Morphology and Distinguishing Features
The shell of Epideroceras roberti is large and robust, with strong, coarse ribs that extend across the flanks and over the venter. These ribs may terminate in tubercles, giving the shell an ornamented and spiny appearance. The whorls are evolute, meaning earlier whorls remain visible, and the venter is typically rounded with ribs carried across it, emphasising the bold ornamentation.
These features give Epideroceras roberti a striking appearance, making it instantly recognisable among Pliensbachian ammonites. Its heavy ribbing and occasional tuberculation suggest evolutionary adaptations to its marine environment, potentially offering structural strength or deterrence against predators.
Biozone and Scientific Importance
Epideroceras roberti is characteristic of the Spinatum Zone of the Upper Pliensbachian, a key ammonite biozone used worldwide in Jurassic stratigraphy. Its presence provides a precise marker for dating and correlating rocks of this age.
The species holds importance not only for its visual appeal but also for its scientific role in understanding ammonite evolution and paleoenvironments of the Early Jurassic. Because well-preserved specimens are rare, they are particularly valued by paleontologists and advanced collectors alike.
Collectors and Enthusiasts
A rare Epideroceras roberti ammonite fossil from Radstock is a prized acquisition for any fossil collection. Its rarity, combined with the distinctive heavy ribbing and tuberculation, makes it a standout piece. With clear provenance from a scientifically important locality and its connection to the Spinatum Zone, this ammonite is both an aesthetically impressive and academically significant specimen.
Why This Specimen is Unique
- Rare Epideroceras roberti ammonite fossil
- From the Upper Pliensbachian, Spinatum Zone (~185 million years old)
- Collected at St Peters Field, Radstock, Somerset, United Kingdom
- Belongs to the family Eoderoceratidae, order Ammonitida
- Notable for strong ribbing and tuberculate ornamentation
- Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Exact fossil shown in the photographs will be sent
- 1cm cube included for precise scale reference
This rare Epideroceras roberti ammonite fossil from Radstock is an exceptional example of Jurassic paleontology. Its robust shell, heavy ribbing, and rarity make it both a scientifically valuable specimen and a visually striking collector’s fossil.
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