Rare Kamerunoceras salmuriense Ammonite Fossil Lower Turonian Cretaceous Betioky Madagascar Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Kamerunoceras salmuriense Ammonite Fossil

This listing features a rare Kamerunoceras salmuriense ammonite fossil, an exceptional specimen from the Lower Turonian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected in Betioky, Madagascar. The fossil offered here is the exact piece shown in the photographs, with a 1 cm scale cube included for reference. Carefully chosen for both preservation and scientific value, this ammonite represents one of the more significant Cretaceous genera. Every fossil we provide is a 100% genuine specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete buyer confidence.

Geological Age and Setting

The fossil dates to the Lower Turonian Stage, around 93.9–89.8 million years ago, a period within the Late Cretaceous. The Turonian is globally important for its distinctive marine faunas and widespread oceanic conditions that allowed ammonites to flourish across the globe. The Cretaceous seas covering what is now Madagascar were particularly rich in ammonites, echinoids, and marine reptiles, making the island one of the most famous fossil localities worldwide. The region of Betioky is celebrated for yielding remarkably preserved ammonites that are highly sought after by both scientists and collectors.

Taxonomy and Classification

Kamerunoceras salmuriense belongs to the genus Kamerunoceras, within the family Acanthoceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. Members of the Acanthoceratidae are characterized by their strongly ornamented shells, often with robust ribs and tubercles that provide a striking sculptured appearance. Kamerunoceras is one of the more distinctive genera within this family, and the species salmuriense is widely used in stratigraphic studies of the Turonian due to its well-defined evolutionary features and limited geological range.

Morphological Features

The shell of Kamerunoceras salmuriense is typically evolute, with whorls that display strong ribbing and prominent tubercles along the flanks. These ribs sweep across the shell and often end in small spines or nodules at the ventral margin, giving the ammonite a rugged and ornate appearance. The combination of ornamentation and coiling is diagnostic of the species and makes it one of the more visually striking ammonites of the Turonian. The preserved detail in this specimen allows close examination of these traits, making it both scientifically valuable and an excellent display fossil.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Kamerunoceras salmuriense are crucial in biostratigraphy, as they are used to define ammonite zones within the Lower Turonian. Their relatively short stratigraphic range and distinctive features make them excellent index fossils, allowing geologists to correlate marine sediments across continents. For collectors, fossils from Madagascar hold particular appeal due to their exceptional preservation and global reputation. A specimen of Kamerunoceras from Betioky represents both a tangible piece of Cretaceous history and a rare opportunity to own a scientifically significant ammonite from a world-class locality.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected in Betioky, Madagascar, one of the world’s classic Cretaceous fossil regions. All fossils we sell are carefully selected, and each comes with a Certificate of Authenticity to guarantee its genuineness and provenance. Secure packaging and professional shipping ensure your fossil arrives safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Kamerunoceras salmuriense ammonite fossil from the Lower Turonian of Madagascar. Its rarity, provenance, and striking morphology make it a highly desirable addition for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or anyone fascinated by Earth’s ancient marine history.