Rare Gagaticeras gagateanum Ammonite Fossil Genuine Jurassic Upper Pliensbachian St Peters Field Radstock UK with COA

Description

100% Genuine Rare Gagaticeras gagateanum Ammonite Fossil

This listing is for a rare Gagaticeras gagateanum ammonite fossil from the Upper Pliensbachian stage of the Jurassic period, collected at St Peters Field, Radstock, United Kingdom. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, shown with a 1cm scale cube for accurate sizing. All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for guaranteed provenance.

Geological Background – Upper Pliensbachian, Jurassic

This ammonite originates from the Upper Pliensbachian stage of the Early Jurassic, dating to approximately 185 million years ago. At this time, large parts of Europe were submerged beneath shallow seas, creating extensive marine environments ideal for ammonite diversity. Fine-grained mudstones, siltstones, and limestones were deposited across southern England, forming the Lower Lias sequence, famous for its rich ammonite fauna.

St Peters Field at Radstock in Somerset is a well-known UK locality within the Lower Jurassic record. Its deposits belong to the Spinatum Zone of the Upper Pliensbachian, a globally recognised ammonite biozone that provides key stratigraphic markers for the correlation of Jurassic rocks. Fossils from this site are important for both collectors and paleontologists due to their rarity and stratigraphic precision.

Fossil Type and Species – Gagaticeras gagateanum

Gagaticeras gagateanum is an extinct ammonite belonging to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Eoderoceratoidea, and family Pleuroceratidae. This species is highly distinctive and relatively rare in British deposits. It is an important index fossil for the Upper Pliensbachian and has been formally recognised as a key species within the Spinatum Zone.

Ammonites such as Gagaticeras were nektonic carnivores, capable of active swimming and hunting smaller marine organisms. Their chambered shells provided buoyancy control, while their morphological diversity reflects evolutionary adaptations to Jurassic marine ecosystems.

Morphology and Distinguishing Features

The shell of Gagaticeras gagateanum is typically compressed and evolute, with whorls that are relatively flat-sided. Strong ribbing runs across the flanks, often bifurcating as it extends towards the outer margin of the whorl. These ribs terminate in prominent tubercles or spines along the ventrolateral shoulder, giving the shell its characteristic ornamentation.

The suture lines of this ammonite are complex and highly folded, a hallmark of ammonitid evolution. Specimens from Radstock often display well-preserved ribbing and tuberculation, making them highly recognisable and attractive fossils.

Biozone and Scientific Importance

Gagaticeras gagateanum is the defining species of the Gagaticeras Biohorizon within the Spinatum Zone of the Upper Pliensbachian. Its presence in the Radstock deposits makes it an important tool for biostratigraphic correlation across Europe. This adds significant scientific value to the specimen, beyond its aesthetic qualities.

The rarity of well-preserved Gagaticeras specimens in British collections increases their desirability. They provide critical information about ammonite evolution and diversity in Early Jurassic seas and are often featured in academic studies of ammonite taxonomy and stratigraphy.

Collectors and Enthusiasts

For collectors, a Gagaticeras gagateanum ammonite fossil is an exceptional and highly sought-after specimen. Its rarity, distinct ornamentation, and stratigraphic importance make it stand out among Jurassic ammonites. With its provenance from St Peters Field, Radstock, this specimen is not only visually striking but also a scientifically significant fossil.

Why This Specimen is Unique

• Rare Gagaticeras gagateanum ammonite fossil
• From the Upper Pliensbachian, Spinatum Zone (~185 million years old)
• Collected at St Peters Field, Radstock, United Kingdom
• Important index fossil for the Gagaticeras Biohorizon
• Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact specimen shown in the photo will be sent
• 1cm cube included for precise size reference

This rare Gagaticeras gagateanum ammonite fossil from the Upper Pliensbachian of Radstock is a scientifically valuable and visually impressive specimen. With its strong ribbing, tuberculate ornamentation, and precise stratigraphic significance, it represents a remarkable addition to any fossil collection.