Description
Rare Forbesiceras obtectum Ammonite Fossil
This listing offers a rare Forbesiceras obtectum ammonite fossil, dating from the Lower Cenomanian Stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in Madagascar. This is a carefully selected specimen representing one of the most distinctive ammonite genera of the Cenomanian seas, notable for its robust coiling and strong ornamentation. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for reference. Every fossil we provide is a 100% genuine specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete confidence in authenticity and provenance.
Geological Age and Context
The Cenomanian Stage (approximately 100.5–93.9 million years ago) marks the very beginning of the Late Cretaceous. It was a time of globally high sea levels and widespread warm, shallow seas, which supported rich and diverse marine ecosystems. Ammonites thrived during this period, adapting into numerous genera and species that now serve as important tools for dating marine rocks. Fossils from Madagascar are particularly significant because of their exceptional preservation, with Forbesiceras obtectum being one of the more scientifically valuable ammonites found in these deposits.
Taxonomy and Classification
Forbesiceras obtectum is a species within the genus Forbesiceras, belonging to the family Forbesiceratidae, superfamily Perisphinctoidea, order Ammonitida. The Forbesiceratidae are known for their stout, strongly ornamented shells with deep ribbing and characteristic features that make them easily identifiable. As part of the Cenomanian ammonite assemblage, Forbesiceras obtectum plays an important role in paleontology for both evolutionary studies and stratigraphic correlation. Its well-documented morphology allows scientists to refine ammonite zones and understand the dynamics of marine faunas during the Lower Cenomanian.
Morphological Features
The shell of Forbesiceras obtectum is evolute, with earlier whorls visible and bold ribbing running across the flanks. The ribs often terminate in pronounced tubercles, giving the fossil a rugged, sculptural appearance. This ornamentation provided structural strength and may have helped in buoyancy regulation, reflecting the ammonite’s adaptation to marine life in dynamic environments. The inflated whorls and coarse ribbing are diagnostic features of the genus and species, and these are well preserved in the specimen offered here, enhancing both its scientific and collector value.
Scientific and Collector Importance
Ammonites like Forbesiceras obtectum are highly significant for biostratigraphy, as their restricted time ranges make them effective index fossils for the Cenomanian Stage. Their evolutionary importance lies in their role as part of the adaptive radiation that characterises the early Late Cretaceous ammonite faunas. For collectors, specimens of Forbesiceras from Madagascar are rare and desirable, not only because of their age and scientific significance but also due to their striking aesthetic qualities. This fossil offers both research potential and display appeal, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
Provenance and Authenticity
Collected in Madagascar, this specimen comes from one of the world’s most renowned localities for Cretaceous ammonites. Each piece is carefully selected for authenticity and preservation, and every fossil is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure packaging and professional shipping guarantee that your specimen will arrive safely and in excellent condition.
This is a rare Forbesiceras obtectum ammonite fossil from the Lower Cenomanian of Madagascar, combining scientific importance, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. An outstanding addition to any collection of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.
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