Description
Rare Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus Fossil Ammonite from Drôme, France
This listing is for a rare Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus fossil ammonite, dating to the Hauterivian stage of the Early Cretaceous. Discovered in Drôme, France, this ammonite represents a striking example of a species less commonly seen in collections and highly valued for both its rarity and scientific significance. The specimen photographed is the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference. All of our fossils are 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Age and Setting – Hauterivian, Cretaceous
This specimen originates from the Hauterivian stage of the Early Cretaceous, approximately 132–129 million years ago. At this time, southern France was covered by warm shallow seas that were part of the vast Tethys Ocean. The marine sediments deposited here, rich in limestones and marls, created the perfect environment for preserving ammonites and other marine fauna.
The Hauterivian is an important interval in Earth history, marking significant evolutionary developments in ammonites and other marine invertebrates. Fossils from this stage are used extensively in biostratigraphy, helping palaeontologists date and correlate Cretaceous deposits across Europe and beyond.
Species and Classification
- Genus: Hemitetragonites
- Species: crebiscullatus
- Order: Ammonitida
- Superfamily: Desmoceratoidea
- Family: Desmoceratidae
Hemitetragonites is a distinctive genus within the Desmoceratidae, a family of smooth-shelled ammonites that thrived during the Cretaceous. The species crebiscullatus is relatively rare, making this specimen a valuable find for collectors and researchers alike.
Morphological Features
The Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus ammonite displays several notable characteristics:
- Shell form: Moderately involute, with visible inner whorls.
- Surface: Generally smoother than ribbed Jurassic ammonites, with subtle ornamentation typical of Desmoceratidae.
- Whorl profile: Rounded and compressed, producing a sleek, elegant shell shape.
- Sutures: Complex suture lines that are diagnostic of ammonites from this group.
These features distinguish Hemitetragonites from other ammonites of the Early Cretaceous and highlight its evolutionary importance in ammonite development.
Stratigraphy and Biozone Importance
Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus is tied to specific Hauterivian ammonite biozones, making it a significant index fossil. Its presence in the Drôme region contributes to the refinement of stratigraphic frameworks and aids in the global correlation of Early Cretaceous marine sequences.
Collector and Scientific Value
- Collectors will appreciate this fossil for its rarity and provenance from the classic Cretaceous localities of southern France.
- Researchers and educators value it as a representative of Desmoceratidae diversity during the Hauterivian.
- For display, its smooth, elegant shell and excellent preservation make it a striking specimen, ideal for enhancing any fossil collection.
Authenticity and Guarantee
All of our fossils are responsibly sourced and are 100% genuine specimens. This Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus has been carefully chosen for its rarity, preservation, and provenance. Each fossil is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, providing assurance of its origin and geological age.
Key Information at a Glance
- Fossil Type: Ammonite
- Species: Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus
- Geological Age: Hauterivian, Early Cretaceous (~132–129 million years old)
- Locality: Drôme, France
- Family: Desmoceratidae
- Order: Ammonitida
- Condition: Natural fossil with excellent preservation and smooth shell form
- Authenticity: Guaranteed with Certificate of Authenticity
This rare Hemitetragonites crebiscullatus ammonite fossil from Drôme, France is both scientifically important and visually appealing, making it a superb choice for collectors, educators, and enthusiasts of Cretaceous natural history.
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