RARE Frechiella Fossil Ammonite – Middle Triassic, Nevada USA

Description

This listing features a rare fossil ammonite of the genus Frechiella, discovered in Middle Triassic deposits of Nevada, USA. This unique specimen represents a now-extinct group of marine cephalopods that thrived after the end-Permian mass extinction and played a critical role in rebuilding Mesozoic marine ecosystems.

Fossil Type & Species:

• Type: Ammonite (Extinct Cephalopod Mollusc)
• Genus: Frechiella
• Recognised by its robust shell, relatively simple suture pattern, and rounded whorls

Geological Context:

• Period: Mesozoic Era
• Epoch: Middle Triassic
• Age Range: ~247 to 237 million years ago
• Depositional Environment: Shallow marine basins with carbonate-rich sedimentation and periodic anoxic events, ideal for fossil preservation
• Formation: Likely from Nevada’s well-known Triassic ammonite-bearing limestones and shales

Morphological Features:

• Moderately involute, planispiral coiling
• Rounded whorl cross-section with faint ribbing or smooth flanks depending on preservation
• Simple ceratitic to goniatitic suture lines, typical of Middle Triassic ammonoids
• Shell surface may show mineralisation or partial compression from burial

Scientific Importance:

• Frechiella is a rare genus that contributes to our understanding of ammonoid diversification after the Permian extinction
• Fossils of this type are important biostratigraphic tools for correlating Middle Triassic marine sequences across the western USA and globally
• Specimens like this provide insight into Triassic marine ecology, evolution, and recovery

Locality Information:

• Nevada, USA – An internationally important region for Triassic marine fossils. Many sites in the state preserve ammonites, bivalves, and marine reptiles from former ocean basins along the western edge of Pangea

Authenticity & Display:

All of our fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens and are accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. This listing includes photographs of the actual specimen you will receive. Full sizing can be seen in the photo provided – the scale cube = 1cm.

This is a rare opportunity to own a genuine Middle Triassic ammonite fossil from the United States. Ideal for collectors, academic use, or natural history display, it represents a remarkable survivor lineage from one of Earth’s most dynamic eras.

Add a piece of ancient marine life to your collection—this fossil is over 240 million years old!