RARE Hoploparia longimana Fossil Lobster Cretaceous Dorset UK Upper Greensand Lyme Regis

Description

Rare Hoploparia longimana Fossil Lobster from the Dorset Coast

Presented here is a rare Hoploparia longimana fossil lobster, an exceptional Lower Cretaceous crustacean fossil recovered from the Upper Greensand Formation at Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis, Dorset, UK. This is a highly sought-after British fossil species, preserved from one of the most important Cretaceous marine deposits in southern England. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, carefully chosen for quality, completeness, and scientific interest. Full sizing details are shown in the photos.

This fossil is a genuine specimen and is supplied with a fully hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity, providing the highest level of assurance in provenance and long-term collectability.

Geological Formation and Stratigraphic Context

This specimen originates from the Upper Greensand, a glauconitic sandstone unit deposited during the Lower Cretaceous Period, specifically within the Aptian Stage. It is associated with the Inflatum Zone, a well-defined biostratigraphic interval widely used in correlating Cretaceous marine sediments across southern England. During this time, the Dorset region was submerged beneath a warm, shallow sea that supported a rich and diverse marine ecosystem. The Upper Greensand of Lyme Regis is internationally recognised for producing rare and finely preserved crustacean fossils.

Fossil Type, Species, and Classification

Hoploparia longimana is an extinct marine lobster belonging to the Order Decapoda, Infraorder Astacidea, and Family Nephropidae, placing it within the same broader group as modern clawed lobsters. Hoploparia is one of the most important fossil lobster genera known from the Jurassic and Cretaceous, with H. longimana being particularly notable for its well-developed chelae and distinctive limb proportions. Specimens of this species are scarce, especially from British localities, making this an important and desirable fossil.

Morphology and Notable Features

This fossil displays characteristic features of Hoploparia longimana, including an elongated carapace, segmented abdomen, and well-developed appendages. The species name longimana refers to the notably long claws, which are a defining trait when preserved. Fine anatomical details such as segmentation, limb articulation, and surface texture may be visible depending on preservation, offering valuable insight into the anatomy and functional morphology of Early Cretaceous decapod crustaceans.

Depositional Environment

During the Aptian, the Upper Greensand sea was a shallow, well-oxygenated marine environment with slow sediment accumulation. Fine sands and silts allowed rapid burial of organisms following death, reducing scavenging and mechanical disturbance. These conditions were ideal for preserving delicate arthropod exoskeletons such as lobsters, which are otherwise rarely fossilised. Fossils from Monmouth Beach represent a snapshot of this productive Cretaceous sea floor ecosystem.

Rarity and Scientific Importance

Fossil lobsters are significantly rarer than ammonites or bivalves, and complete or identifiable specimens of Hoploparia longimana from the UK are especially uncommon. Examples from the Upper Greensand are highly regarded by collectors, researchers, and museums due to their stratigraphic precision and taxonomic clarity. The inclusion of a hand-signed Premium Certificate of Authenticity further elevates this specimen as a serious, high-grade collectible.

Collecting, Display, and Investment Value

This rare Hoploparia longimana fossil lobster is ideal for museum-grade collections, advanced educational displays, or high-impact private presentation. Its clear provenance, precise stratigraphic placement, and rarity within the British fossil record make it both scientifically valuable and visually compelling. Fossils of this calibre from the Dorset Cretaceous are increasingly difficult to obtain, and each specimen we offer is individually selected to ensure you receive an authentic, premium-quality piece of Early Cretaceous marine history from one of the UK’s most important fossil localities.