Rare Hyphantoceras reussianum Ammonite Fossil Upper Turonian Cretaceous Germany

Description

This listing is for a rare Hyphantoceras reussianum ammonite fossil, a striking heteromorph ammonite from the Upper Turonian stage of the Late Cretaceous, collected near Halle, Germany. This exceptional specimen represents one of the more unusual ammonite morphologies, with its irregularly coiled shell making it an eye-catching and scientifically significant fossil.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube and rule squares included for accurate size reference. Please see images for full sizing details.

Geological Context and Age

This ammonite fossil comes from the Upper Turonian stage of the Late Cretaceous Period, approximately 90–93 million years ago. The deposits near Halle, Germany, are well known for their marine fossils, representing ancient seafloor sediments deposited in warm, shallow epicontinental seas that covered much of Europe during this time.

The Turonian was a period of high global sea levels and warm greenhouse conditions, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. Ammonites such as Hyphantoceras reussianum thrived in these environments, evolving a wide range of shell shapes and adaptations. This particular species is part of the heteromorph ammonites, a group characterised by their unorthodox, non-planispiral coiling.

Morphology and Distinctive Features

Hyphantoceras reussianum is notable for its loosely coiled and irregularly shaped shell, which deviates from the tightly coiled planispiral form of most ammonites. Its shell typically exhibits curved, hook-like coils, with strong ribbing and ornamentation visible along the surface. These features make heteromorph ammonites especially distinctive and highly prized by collectors.

The unusual shell shape of Hyphantoceras is thought to have influenced its lifestyle and buoyancy. While planispiral ammonites were strong swimmers, heteromorph forms like Hyphantoceras may have been slower, occupying different ecological niches in the ancient seas. Their unique morphology provides valuable insight into the adaptability and evolutionary experimentation of ammonites during the Cretaceous.

Scientific Importance and Classification

This species belongs to the family Nostoceratidae, a group of heteromorph ammonites within the superfamily Turrilitoidea. The Nostoceratidae are known for their bizarre and elaborate shell morphologies, ranging from helically wound spirals to hook-shaped coils. Hyphantoceras reussianum is a classic example of this evolutionary innovation, demonstrating the wide diversity of ammonite shell forms during the Late Cretaceous.

As a fossil, it provides not only aesthetic appeal but also contributes to palaeontological understanding of ammonite evolution, palaeoecology, and biostratigraphy. Fossils from the Turonian stage are also important for identifying biozones and correlating marine strata across Europe.

Collector and Display Value

This rare heteromorph ammonite is a striking addition to any fossil collection. Its unusual shell shape, excellent preservation, and precise locality make it both a scientifically significant and visually appealing specimen. Due to their rarity and distinctive morphology, heteromorph ammonites such as Hyphantoceras reussianum are highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Whether for scientific interest, educational display, or as a centrepiece in a private collection, this ammonite offers a remarkable glimpse into the diversity of marine life that flourished in the Cretaceous seas.

Your Guarantee of Authenticity

• Rare Hyphantoceras reussianum ammonite fossil from Halle, Germany
• Geological age: Upper Turonian, Late Cretaceous (approx. 90–93 million years old)
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• Exact specimen shown in the photographs (no stock images)
• Scale cube and rule squares = 1 cm (see photos for accurate sizing)

This Hyphantoceras reussianum ammonite fossil is a rare and beautiful piece of natural history, showcasing the extraordinary diversity of ammonites and the remarkable preservation of Germany’s Cretaceous fossil record. It is a carefully chosen specimen that represents both scientific importance and natural elegance, preserved in stone for over 90 million years.