Rare Fossil Crab Neptunus granulatus – Miocene Bosa Beds Sardinia Italy, Authentic Specimen

Description

An exceptional and rare Neptunus granulatus fossil crab preserved in matrix, dating to the Miocene Epoch (~15–20 million years ago). This exquisite specimen was collected from the Bosa Beds near Sardinia, Italy, a notable locality known for yielding well-preserved marine fauna.

Neptunus granulatus is a species of crab characterised by its robust body, granulated carapace texture, and well-defined limbs. Complete crab fossils are rare due to the delicate nature of their exoskeletons, making this an outstanding and scientifically valuable piece.

Fossil Type: Decapod Crustacean (Crab)

Species: Neptunus granulatus

Geological Age: Miocene – Langhian to Serravallian Stages

Formation: Bosa Beds (Miocene marine sediments)

Depositional Environment: Formed in a shallow marine setting with fine sedimentation, these beds captured a wide array of marine organisms. Rapid burial in silty muds helped preserve even fragile exoskeletal features of crustaceans.

Morphological Features:

• Granular-textured carapace
• Well-preserved claws and limb segments
• Articulated or semi-articulated crab structure in natural matrix

Notable:

• Rare complete or near-complete fossil crab from Miocene Italy
• Beautifully preserved and scientifically important
• Ideal for collectors, museums, and educational displays
• The image shows the exact specimen offered for sale

Authenticity: All of our fossils are 100% genuine natural specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. The scale cube or rule shown in the photo is marked in 1cm increments – please refer to the image for full sizing.

This rare Neptunus granulatus fossil crab from the Miocene of Sardinia is an exceptional marine fossil that captures the intricate details of ancient life. A must-have piece for collectors of fine invertebrate fossils.