RARE Fossil Ammonite Epophioceras longicella Upper Sinemurian Jurassic Charmouth Dorset UK

Description

Rare Fossil Ammonite – Epophioceras longicella

This listing offers a rare and beautifully preserved specimen of the ammonite Epophioceras longicella, dating to the Upper Sinemurian stage of the Early Jurassic (approximately 196–190 million years ago). Found in the world-famous fossil beds of Charmouth, Dorset, United Kingdom, this ammonite represents one of the distinctive and scientifically significant species from the Jurassic Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The specimen has been carefully chosen for its detail and preservation, and the photographs provided show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for reference.

Geological Context

The Upper Sinemurian stage of the Jurassic period is a key interval in Earth’s history, marked by significant ammonite diversification. The Charmouth region, part of the iconic Blue Lias Formation, has long been celebrated for producing exceptional fossils, from ammonites and belemnites to marine reptiles. The presence of Epophioceras longicella is linked with the raricostatum biozone, a stratigraphic interval that allows geologists to accurately date and correlate marine sediments across different regions of Europe.

Classification and Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Mollusca
• Class: Cephalopoda
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Eoderoceratoidea
• Family: Eoderoceratidae
• Genus: Epophioceras
• Species: Epophioceras longicella

This classification places the ammonite within a group of cephalopods that were particularly successful during the Lower Jurassic, showing rapid evolutionary adaptations to changing marine environments.

Morphological Features

Epophioceras longicella is characterised by its evolute shell structure, where all whorls remain visible from the side, and its distinctive ribbing, which extends across the flanks and strengthens toward the periphery of the shell. The ribs often bifurcate, creating a branching pattern that adds to the fossil’s visual appeal. This ribbing not only contributed to the structural integrity of the shell but also played a role in buoyancy and hydrodynamics, helping the living animal navigate the shallow seas of the Early Jurassic.

Scientific and Collector Importance

As an ammonite tied to a specific biozone, Epophioceras longicella is important in biostratigraphy—the use of fossil organisms to date and correlate rock layers. This makes it valuable not only to collectors but also to researchers studying the Sinemurian stage. For collectors, its rarity and well-defined morphology set it apart from more commonly encountered ammonites. Fossils from Charmouth also carry a particular prestige due to the site’s global significance and long history of fossil discoveries dating back to Mary Anning’s time in the early 19th century.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected at Charmouth, Dorset, UK, one of the richest fossil localities in the world. The Jurassic Coast continues to yield scientifically valuable fossils that enhance our understanding of ancient marine ecosystems. This ammonite comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming that it is a 100% genuine specimen. The fossil you see in the photographs is the exact one you will receive.

A Unique Piece of Jurassic History

Owning a fossil such as Epophioceras longicella offers the opportunity to hold a tangible piece of Earth’s deep history. With its rare provenance, striking morphology, and excellent preservation, this ammonite makes an outstanding addition to any fossil collection, museum display, or as a special gift for natural history enthusiasts. It stands as both a scientific treasure and a beautiful natural object from the seas of the Early Jurassic.