Rare Leptoplites leptus Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous France Aube Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Leptoplites leptus Ammonite Fossil from Aube, France

Presented here is a rare Leptoplites leptus ammonite fossil from the Albian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in the fossil-rich deposits of Aube, France. Dating back approximately 113–100 million years, this specimen offers a direct connection to a fascinating time when shallow seas covered much of Europe, supporting diverse marine ecosystems. This fossil is not a replica or cast but the exact specimen shown in the photographs, supplied with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. Each piece is guaranteed genuine and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context – Albian Stage of the Cretaceous

The Albian stage represents the final stage of the Lower Cretaceous, a time of significant evolutionary development among ammonites and marine fauna. The Aube region of France is internationally renowned for its Cretaceous exposures, where fine sedimentary deposits preserved an abundance of ammonites, bivalves, and marine organisms. These sediments formed in warm, shallow epicontinental seas, where calcareous muds and sands accumulated to create ideal fossil-bearing strata.

The Albian seas were dynamic environments influenced by fluctuating sea levels and global greenhouse climates. Ammonites such as Leptoplites leptus thrived in these waters, leaving behind distinct shells that now serve as important biostratigraphic markers for correlating Albian rock sequences worldwide.

Species Overview – Leptoplites leptus

Leptoplites leptus belongs to the Order Ammonitida, within the Superfamily Acanthocerataceae and the Family Hoplitidae. This ammonite is known for its highly distinctive shell morphology, which makes it easily recognisable to both collectors and paleontologists.

Key features of Leptoplites leptus include:

• Strong, tuberculated ribbing running across the whorls, creating a bold, ornamented appearance.
• A relatively compressed, planispiral shell with well-defined sutures.
• Prominent ventral tubercles, often aligned along the keel.
• Ornamentation that reflects adaptation to mid-water marine habitats.

These characteristics suggest a highly active lifestyle, with buoyancy control enabling it to move efficiently in the water column. Like other ammonites, it was likely a predator, feeding on small crustaceans, mollusks, and planktonic life forms.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Leptoplites leptus is an index fossil species of the Albian stage, frequently used by geologists and paleontologists to refine stratigraphic boundaries and correlate Albian deposits across Europe and beyond. Its abundance and distinct morphology make it an invaluable tool for the study of Early Cretaceous paleoenvironments.

For collectors, this ammonite represents a rare and scientifically important specimen, particularly valued when preserved with fine ribbing and well-defined tubercles. Fossils from Aube are especially prized for their completeness and sharp detail, offering both beauty and academic relevance.

Aesthetic and Educational Value

This specimen of Leptoplites leptus is not only significant in the scientific record but also striking in appearance. The intricate ribbing and ornamentation provide a natural display of evolutionary adaptation and make it an outstanding decorative fossil for private collections, museums, or educational exhibits. The specimen’s preservation allows close study of its morphology, making it a superb reference for teaching the diversity and complexity of Cretaceous ammonites.

Provenance and Classification

• Species: Leptoplites leptus
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthocerataceae
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Age: Albian Stage, Lower Cretaceous (~113–100 million years ago)
• Locality: Aube, France

Authentic Collector’s Fossil

This rare Leptoplites leptus ammonite fossil from Aube, France, represents a genuine piece of natural history. With its strong ribbing, tuberculated ornamentation, and clear Albian age, it holds both aesthetic and scientific appeal. Each fossil is carefully selected and sold with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring that you receive a genuine, high-quality specimen of this remarkable ammonite species.