RARE Fossil Fish – Dapalis macrurus, Oligocene, Calcaires de Vachères, Alpes de Haute Provence, France

Description

Exceptional Fossilized Fish – Dapalis macrurus, Lower Oligocene: Alpes de Haute Provence, France

This listing features a genuine fossilized fish (Dapalis macrurus) from the Lower Oligocene (~33-28 million years ago), preserved in the fine-grained limestones of the Calcaires de Vachères Formation, Alpes de Haute Provence, France. This exceptional specimen showcases remarkable details of the fish’s body structure, making it a scientifically valuable and highly collectible fossil.

Species Information – Dapalis macrurus

Dapalis macrurus was a prehistoric fish species that thrived in the freshwater and brackish environments of the Oligocene period. It belonged to a group of early bony fish (Teleosts) that were evolving in the aftermath of the Eocene, a time when major climate and oceanic changes were reshaping global ecosystems.

This species exhibited a streamlined body, elongated tail, and delicate fin structures, making it an efficient swimmer and predator. Fossils like this are significant because they provide insight into the evolution of modern fish species and their adaptation to changing environments during the Oligocene epoch.

Key Features of Dapalis macrurus Fossils:

🐟 Early Bony Fish Evolution – A crucial species in the evolutionary history of modern fish

🐟 Impeccable Preservation – Exceptional fossilization of bones, fins, and body impressions

🐟 Oligocene Marine Life – Lived in shallow coastal waters during a time of significant global cooling

Fossils from this time period are relatively rare, as Oligocene deposits are less common than those of the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods. Well-preserved fish fossils from the Calcaires de Vachères Formation are highly sought after, particularly specimens that show detailed skeletal structure.

Geological Context – Calcaires de Vachères Formation, France

The Calcaires de Vachères Formation in the Alpes de Haute Provence, France, is a well-known fossil site from the Stampian stage of the Oligocene (~33-28 million years ago). This formation consists of fine-grained limestones, which were deposited in shallow, warm lagoons and brackish waters, providing excellent preservation conditions for fish, mollusks, and other marine life.

During the Oligocene, global cooling led to the expansion of grasslands and changes in ocean circulation, influencing the evolution of marine species. Fossils from this period offer crucial insights into how life adapted to climate shifts and environmental transformations.

Specimen Details

• Fossil Type: Fossil Fish
• Scientific Name: Dapalis macrurus
• Age: Lower Oligocene (~33-28 million years old)
• Formation: Calcaires de Vachères
• Location: Alpes de Haute Provence, France
• Condition: A-Grade Quality, with visible skeletal and fin structures

Why Buy From Us?

✔ 100% Genuine Fossil – Authentic Dapalis macrurus Fossil

✔ Certificate of Authenticity Included

✔ From the Alice Purnell Collection – One of the largest private ammonite and fossil collections in the world

✔ Scale Cube (1cm) for Size Reference – Please check photos for exact sizing

✔ Rare & Highly Collectible Specimen – Ideal for collectors, museums, and prehistoric fish fossil enthusiasts

This stunning fossilized fish specimen is a rare and scientifically significant piece, offering an incredible glimpse into the marine ecosystems of the Oligocene period. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this exceptional piece of natural history!

📦 Secure Packaging & Worldwide Shipping Available!