RARE Metatissotia fourneli Ammonite Fossil Coniacian Cretaceous Bagua Amazon Peru COA

Description

Rare Metatissotia fourneli Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a rare Metatissotia fourneli ammonite fossil from the Coniacian stage of the Late Cretaceous, originating from the Bagua Grande region of the Amazon Basin in Peru. Dating back around 89 to 86 million years ago, this extraordinary specimen reflects the marine biodiversity of the ancient South American seaway. Every fossil we supply is genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs display the exact specimen you will receive, shown with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference.

Geological Setting – Coniacian of the Amazon Basin

The Coniacian stage represents an important interval of the Late Cretaceous, marked by significant global transgressions where rising sea levels submerged vast continental areas. The Bagua Basin of northern Peru is an internationally recognised fossil locality, preserving a sequence of marine sediments deposited in a shallow epicontinental sea. Layers consist primarily of fine-grained limestones and marls that provided the perfect environment for exceptional ammonite preservation.

These deposits are highly valued not only for their abundance of ammonites but also for their importance in biostratigraphy, as they allow correlation with contemporaneous marine strata across Europe, Africa, and North America.

Species Profile – Metatissotia fourneli

Metatissotia fourneli belongs to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and family Collignoniceratidae. It is a well-recognised Coniacian ammonite, notable for its distinctive morphology.

Key diagnostic features include:

• A moderately involute, compressed shell with flattened flanks
• Strong, widely spaced ribs traversing the shell, often branching or flexing toward the outer whorl
• A pronounced keel running along the venter, typical of the genus
• Fine tubercles positioned on rib intersections, adding to the fossil’s ornamentation
• Complex suture lines, representative of its advanced evolutionary stage

These features not only help paleontologists identify the species but also make Metatissotia fourneli a visually striking and scientifically important ammonite.

Scientific and Stratigraphic Significance

Metatissotia fourneli serves as a valuable index fossil for the Coniacian stage. Its restricted stratigraphic range and widespread distribution across South America, Africa, and Europe make it an excellent tool for correlating Cretaceous marine deposits. Fossils from the Bagua Basin demonstrate the rich connectivity of the Cretaceous oceans, when ammonites dispersed across vast seaways linking different continents.

The robust ornamentation of this species suggests adaptation to predator-rich environments, where ribbing and shell morphology may have provided hydrodynamic efficiency and structural strength.

Collector and Display Value

This ammonite fossil combines scientific value with aesthetic appeal. Its bold ribbing and well-preserved form make it highly suitable for display, whether in a private collection, museum exhibit, or educational setting. Ammonites from South America, particularly the Amazon Basin, are far less common on the market than those from Europe or Madagascar, adding rarity and desirability to this piece.

Authenticity and Guarantee

• Genuine Metatissotia fourneli ammonite fossil
• Age: Coniacian stage, Late Cretaceous (approx. 89–86 million years ago)
• Locality: Bagua Grande, Amazon Basin, Peru
• Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
• The exact specimen photographed is the one you will receive

This rare Peruvian ammonite represents a remarkable fragment of Earth’s deep-time history and is an exceptional addition for fossil collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.