Rare Otohoplites bulliensis Ammonite Fossil Middle Albian Cretaceous Salin les Bains Aub France

Description

Rare Otohoplites bulliensis Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Otohoplites bulliensis ammonite fossil, originating from the Middle Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous (around 110–105 million years ago). Discovered at Salin les Bains in Aub, France, this specimen is a fine example of a mid-Cretaceous ammonite preserved within a formation renowned for its exceptional marine fossils. As with all our fossils, this specimen is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photographs show the exact fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate sizing.

Geological Context

The Middle Albian was a critical stage in the Cretaceous Period, characterised by globally high sea levels and widespread shallow marine environments across Europe. The Salin les Bains deposits formed in such a marine setting, where clays, marls, and limestones provided ideal conditions for fossil preservation. This locality is known for its ammonite-rich horizons, which play a key role in biostratigraphic dating across Western Europe.

During the Albian, the seas supported diverse ammonite faunas, whose distinctive shell morphologies allow geologists to divide the stage into fine-scale ammonite zones. Otohoplites bulliensis is one such species, marking part of the Hoplitidae-rich faunal succession that defines the Middle Albian.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Hoplitoidea
• Family: Hoplitidae
• Genus: Otohoplites
• Species: Otohoplites bulliensis

The genus Otohoplites is closely related to other hoplitid ammonites, noted for their ribbed ornamentation and zonal importance in Albian stratigraphy. O. bulliensis is a species with well-documented occurrence in the French basins and is of great interest to both collectors and researchers.

Morphological Features

This species is easily recognised by its compressed whorls, strong radial ribbing, and tubercles along the flanks. The ribs extend across the venter, sometimes forming subtle keels that reinforce the shell’s structural integrity. These morphological adaptations hint at its active nektonic lifestyle, allowing it to swim freely in the Cretaceous seas.

The detail visible on this fossil demonstrates the durability of the ammonite shell and the exceptional preservation conditions of the Salin les Bains locality. The ornamentation is not only diagnostic but also highly attractive, making this ammonite a beautiful display specimen.

Scientific and Collector Value

Otohoplites bulliensis holds particular significance for stratigraphic correlation across Europe. Its occurrence within the Middle Albian provides palaeontologists with an important tool for dating marine sediments. Specimens such as this one are therefore highly sought after by researchers and collectors alike.

For private collectors, this fossil represents a rare opportunity to own a species with both scientific importance and aesthetic appeal. The strong ribbing and tuberculation are hallmarks of the Hoplitidae family, and this specimen offers a textbook example of the species’ features.

Provenance and Authenticity

Collected from the Salin les Bains deposits, Aub, France, this fossil is part of a classic Cretaceous locality long valued by European palaeontologists. The specimen has been carefully selected for its clarity and preservation, ensuring both scientific value and collector desirability.

It comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance and confirming that it is a genuine fossil, not a reproduction. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive.

This rare Otohoplites bulliensis ammonite fossil from the Middle Albian of France is an outstanding addition to any collection of natural history, palaeontology, or geology. Its rarity, detailed preservation, and scientific importance make it a truly exceptional piece.