Rare Kamerunoceras antsaronense Ammonite Fossil Lower Turonian Cretaceous Menabe Madagascar Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Kamerunoceras antsaronense Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Kamerunoceras antsaronense ammonite fossil, dating from the Lower Turonian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected in the world-renowned fossil beds of Menabe, Madagascar. A striking example of a classic Turonian ammonite, this specimen highlights the distinctive shell form and ornamentation that makes Kamerunoceras one of the most iconic ammonite genera of the Late Cretaceous. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube shown for size reference. Every specimen we supply is a 100% genuine fossil and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Lower Turonian Stage, approximately 93.9–89.8 million years ago, represents the earliest part of the Late Cretaceous. This interval is globally significant for its diverse marine life and widespread epicontinental seas, which covered much of present-day Europe, Africa, and Madagascar. The Menabe region of Madagascar is internationally celebrated for its beautifully preserved ammonites, providing important reference material for paleontologists and highly prized specimens for collectors. Fossils such as Kamerunoceras antsaronense are integral to reconstructing the biodiversity and stratigraphy of this period.

Taxonomy and Classification

Kamerunoceras antsaronense belongs to the family Acanthoceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, within the order Ammonitida. The Acanthoceratidae are one of the most significant ammonite families of the Turonian, known for their strongly ribbed shells with characteristic nodes and tubercles. These features made them highly successful and geographically widespread during the Cretaceous seas. The genus Kamerunoceras is particularly important for its role in defining Turonian ammonite zones, with antsaronense being one of the key species used in biostratigraphy.

Morphological Features

The shell of Kamerunoceras antsaronense is evolute, with ribs radiating strongly from the umbilicus and extending across the flanks to the venter. These ribs are often accented with prominent tubercles or nodules that create a bold, sculptured appearance. The combination of ribbing and nodosity makes the fossil both diagnostic and visually striking. Such ornamentation is thought to have played a role in strengthening the shell while also giving the ammonite hydrodynamic efficiency in the open seas. The features preserved in this specimen allow for accurate identification and highlight its scientific as well as aesthetic value.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Ammonites like Kamerunoceras antsaronense are essential for Lower Turonian biostratigraphy, serving as key index fossils used by geologists to date and correlate rock layers across continents. Their distinctive morphology, combined with a relatively short stratigraphic range, makes them invaluable for refining the ammonite zonation of the Cretaceous. For collectors, specimens from Madagascar are particularly appealing because of their excellent preservation, rarity, and provenance from one of the world’s most famous fossil localities. This ammonite embodies both scientific importance and collector desirability.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected in the Menabe region of Madagascar, a globally recognised hotspot for Turonian ammonites. Every fossil we supply is carefully chosen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring complete confidence in its genuineness and origin. Secure packaging and professional handling ensure the fossil reaches you in excellent condition, ready to be admired and displayed.

This is a rare Kamerunoceras antsaronense ammonite fossil from the Lower Turonian of Madagascar, an outstanding piece of natural history that combines scientific value, rarity, and visual appeal. It is a superb addition to any ammonite, Cretaceous, or general fossil collection.