Rare Forbesiceras baylissi Ammonite Fossil Middle Cenomanian Cretaceous Sussex United Kingdom Authentic Certified

Description

Rare Forbesiceras baylissi Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Forbesiceras baylissi ammonite fossil, dating from the Middle Cenomanian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected in Sussex, United Kingdom. A superb example of an early Late Cretaceous ammonite, this specimen displays the distinctive morphology and robust ornamentation characteristic of the species. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for size reference. Every piece we offer is a 100% genuine fossil and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Cenomanian Stage (approximately 100.5–93.9 million years ago) marks the beginning of the Late Cretaceous. During this time, sea levels were exceptionally high, with shallow seas covering much of Europe, including southern England. These warm, shallow marine environments provided ideal conditions for ammonites, bivalves, and marine reptiles. Sussex is one of the UK’s most important fossil localities, yielding well-preserved Cenomanian ammonites that provide vital insights into the stratigraphy and paleontology of the Chalk deposits. Fossils such as Forbesiceras baylissi are not only scientifically important but also highly prized by collectors for their rarity and provenance.

Taxonomy and Classification

Forbesiceras baylissi belongs to the genus Forbesiceras, part of the family Forbesiceratidae, within the superfamily Perisphinctoidea and order Ammonitida. The Forbesiceratidae are characterised by their sturdy shells with strong ribbing and tuberculated ornamentation, which make them distinctive and scientifically valuable. Forbesiceras is particularly significant in Cenomanian paleontology because of its importance as a biostratigraphic marker, and baylissi is one of the species used to refine ammonite zonations within the Middle Cenomanian.

Morphological Features

The shell of Forbesiceras baylissi is typically evolute, with earlier whorls clearly visible and well-developed ornamentation across the flanks. Strong, prominent ribs sweep outward, often terminating in tubercles or nodes near the venter, creating a bold, sculptured appearance. This ornamentation is diagnostic of the genus and provided structural strength for the shell. The robust whorls and coarse ribbing make the fossil visually striking, while also enabling paleontologists to identify the species with accuracy. This specimen preserves these details beautifully, enhancing both its collector and scientific value.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Forbesiceras baylissi are invaluable to Cenomanian biostratigraphy, as they define specific ammonite zones that help geologists correlate rock layers across Europe and beyond. Their distinct morphology and relatively narrow stratigraphic ranges make them reliable index fossils. For collectors, a Forbesiceras baylissi from Sussex represents not only a scientifically significant specimen but also a fossil with strong historical and geographical value. British ammonites from the Cenomanian Chalk are increasingly rare to source, making this a highly desirable piece for any collection.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil was collected in Sussex, United Kingdom, a locality famed for its Cenomanian and Chalk fossil assemblages. Every specimen we supply is carefully chosen for its quality and authenticity. Each fossil comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for full buyer confidence. Secure professional packaging ensures safe delivery so that your fossil arrives in excellent condition.

This is a rare Forbesiceras baylissi ammonite fossil from the Middle Cenomanian of Sussex, UK. Its rarity, provenance, and striking morphology make it a superb addition to any collection of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.