Rare Hildaites forte Ammonite Fossil, Upper Toarcian Stage Jurassic, Authentic Bavarian Germany Collectors Specimen with COA

Description

Genuine Jurassic Ammonite Fossil from Bavaria

This listing features an authentic Hildaites forte Ammonite Fossil from the Upper Toarcian Stage of the Early Jurassic period, unearthed in Bavaria, Germany. Ammonites were extinct marine cephalopods, related to modern squid and octopus, that thrived in the world’s oceans for over 300 million years before their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous. The specimen offered here is a carefully chosen example that displays the classic coiled morphology of the genus Hildaites. The photographs in this listing show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate measurement.

Geological Significance – Upper Toarcian, Jurassic

The fossil originates from the Upper Toarcian, dating to approximately 182–174 million years ago. The Toarcian seas of Bavaria represent some of the most famous fossiliferous deposits in Europe, formed in shallow marine basins that accumulated fine-grained sediments. These conditions allowed for the preservation of delicate ammonite shells alongside other marine fauna. The Upper Toarcian is especially important in ammonite biostratigraphy, as ammonite zones within this stage are used to correlate rock layers across Europe and beyond.

Species and Classification – Hildaites forte

The ammonite Hildaites forte belongs to the family Hildoceratidae within the superfamily Hildoceratoidea, order Ammonitida. Members of this group are well known for their compressed shells, fine ribbing, and elegant coiling. Hildaites species are often characterized by moderately involute shells with ribbing that strengthens towards the outer whorl, traits that helped paleontologists distinguish them from closely related genera. This genus is a recognized marker for specific biozones within the Toarcian stage, giving it importance for both paleontology and stratigraphy.

Morphological Features

This specimen exhibits the distinctive features associated with Hildaites forte:

• A compressed, planispiral shell with moderately involute coiling.
• Fine, regular ribbing running across the whorls, typical of the genus.
• Clear suture lines, representing the complex junctions between internal septa.
• A graceful whorl expansion that reflects the hydrodynamic adaptations of ammonites for life in open marine waters.

The preservation of these features makes this fossil not only scientifically valuable but also a striking display piece.

Paleoenvironment and Scientific Relevance

During the Upper Toarcian, the region that is now Bavaria was covered by shallow epicontinental seas. These seas were rich in plankton and marine invertebrates, providing a thriving ecosystem for ammonites. Fossils such as this specimen of Hildaites forte are key indicators of the environmental conditions and evolutionary changes that occurred in the aftermath of the Early Toarcian oceanic anoxic event, one of the most significant climatic and biological events of the Jurassic.

Because ammonites evolved rapidly and had widespread distributions, paleontologists use them as index fossils to precisely date the rocks in which they are found. Specimens like this are critical in defining Toarcian biozones, helping geologists correlate layers across different regions.

100% Genuine with Certificate of Authenticity

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens. This ammonite fossil is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring confidence in its identification and provenance. Unlike casts or reproductions, this is a true piece of Earth’s history, preserved in stone for nearly 180 million years.

An Ideal Collector’s Piece

Whether you are a seasoned fossil collector, a geology enthusiast, or looking for a unique natural history display, this Jurassic ammonite from Bavaria, Germany makes a fascinating addition. Its combination of geological importance, well-preserved morphology, and historical significance ensures it will stand out in any collection.

Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1 cm. Please see photos for the full sizing of this actual specimen.