Rare Morrowites subdepressus Ammonite Fossil Lower Turonian Cretaceous Menabe Madagascar Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Morrowites subdepressus Ammonite Fossil

This listing features a rare Morrowites subdepressus ammonite fossil from the Lower Turonian Stage of the Cretaceous period, collected in the fossil-rich region of Menabe, Madagascar. This specimen is an excellent representation of a significant Turonian ammonite genus, combining strong preservation with clear diagnostic features. The photographs show the exact specimen for sale, with a 1 cm scale cube included for size reference. As with all our offerings, this is a 100% genuine fossil and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Setting

The Lower Turonian Stage (approximately 93.9–89.8 million years ago) marks the early part of the Late Cretaceous, a time when global sea levels were at some of their highest in Earth’s history. Shallow seas spread across much of the world, including Madagascar, creating ideal conditions for diverse marine faunas. The Menabe region is one of the most famous fossil localities in Madagascar, renowned for producing ammonites, echinoids, and other marine invertebrates of outstanding preservation. This ammonite provides a direct link to those ancient seas and the ecosystems that thrived within them.

Taxonomy and Classification

Morrowites subdepressus belongs to the genus Morrowites, within the family Acanthoceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. The Acanthoceratidae are one of the hallmark ammonite families of the Turonian, characterized by bold ribbing, nodose ornamentation, and striking shell morphology. Morrowites is an important genus for defining ammonite zones within the Turonian, making it scientifically significant in stratigraphic and evolutionary studies. The species subdepressus is particularly valued because of its rarity and distinctive shell structure.

Morphological Features

The shell of Morrowites subdepressus is typically compressed to sub-depressed in form, with whorls that carry strong ribs extending from the umbilicus to the venter. The ribs are often interrupted by nodes or tubercles, which give the shell a robust and sculptured appearance. These ornamentation patterns are diagnostic for the genus and species, and they provide fascinating insights into the evolutionary adaptations of ammonites during the Turonian. The specimen offered here displays these features clearly, making it a valuable piece for both scientific appreciation and private collection.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Morrowites subdepressus are key index fossils, used by geologists to subdivide and correlate Lower Turonian sediments across different regions. Their distinct morphology and restricted time range make them vital for refining the ammonite zonation of the Cretaceous system. For collectors, a specimen from Menabe represents a prized addition due to the locality’s global reputation and the rarity of well-preserved Morrowites ammonites. The striking ornamentation ensures that it is not only scientifically valuable but also a visually impressive fossil for display.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected in Menabe, Madagascar, a classic Turonian fossil site celebrated worldwide. Every fossil we supply is hand-selected and guaranteed authentic, with each piece accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure professional packaging and shipping ensure your fossil arrives safely and ready for display.

This is a rare opportunity to own a Morrowites subdepressus ammonite fossil from the Lower Turonian of Madagascar. Its rarity, striking morphology, and classic provenance make it an exceptional addition to any fossil or ammonite collection.