Rare Euhoplites ochetoceras Ammonite Fossil Upper Albian Cretaceous from Cap Blanc Nez France

Description

Rare Euhoplites ochetoceras Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a rare specimen of Euhoplites ochetoceras, a striking ammonite fossil from the Upper Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous (approximately 105–100 million years ago). Collected at the renowned Cap Blanc Nez cliffs in northern France, this ammonite is a superb example of a fossiliferous locality famous for its rich marine deposits. The specimen on offer has been carefully selected for its preservation and clarity of morphological detail. As with all of our fossils, it is a 100% genuine specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for reference.

Geological and Palaeontological Context

The Upper Albian was a significant period in the Cretaceous, marked by warm global climates, high sea levels, and the expansion of shallow marine environments. The Cap Blanc Nez cliffs, part of the Boulonnais coast in France, are among Europe’s most important fossil localities. They preserve a continuous marine sequence that records the evolution of numerous ammonite lineages, including the Hoplitidae, to which Euhoplites belongs.

This region’s sedimentary layers consist primarily of marl, chalk, and clay-rich strata, deposited in an epicontinental sea that covered much of Western Europe. Ammonites such as Euhoplites ochetoceras are crucial to biostratigraphy, allowing geologists to refine the Albian timescale through their well-documented distribution.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitoidea
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Genus: Euhoplites
• Species: Euhoplites ochetoceras

The genus Euhoplites is widely recognised for its complex ornamentation and high stratigraphic value. E. ochetoceras is a characteristic Upper Albian species, with a restricted yet scientifically important distribution across northern France and parts of southern England.

Morphological Features

This species is known for its densely ribbed shell, sharp ornamentation, and pronounced tubercles. The ribs typically bifurcate across the flanks and cross the venter strongly, giving the ammonite its distinctive appearance. These features likely offered structural reinforcement and hydrodynamic efficiency during swimming in the mid-Cretaceous seas.

The present specimen displays excellent detail in its ribbing and whorl structure, showcasing the diagnostic characteristics of the species. Its ornamentation makes it not only valuable for scientific identification but also visually appealing for collectors.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Euhoplites ochetoceras is one of the most important index fossils of the Upper Albian, making it invaluable for stratigraphic correlation. Its relatively short-lived presence in the fossil record allows geologists to pinpoint precise intervals of time, aiding in the study of sedimentary basins and palaeoenvironments.

For collectors, this fossil represents a rare and scientifically significant ammonite, with both aesthetic appeal and geological value. Ammonites from Cap Blanc Nez are highly sought after due to their combination of rarity, historical importance, and preservation quality.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected from the Cap Blanc Nez locality in northern France, a site long renowned by palaeontologists and fossil enthusiasts for its rich Cretaceous deposits. The fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is guaranteed to be genuine. The photos display the exact piece available for purchase, ensuring complete transparency.

This rare Euhoplites ochetoceras ammonite fossil is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a scientifically valuable and visually striking specimen from one of Europe’s most famous Cretaceous fossil localities. It makes an excellent addition to any collection of ammonites, natural history, or geological specimens.