RARE Oxytropidoceras diazi Ammonite Fossil Lower Albian Stage Cretaceous Alps Maritime France

Description

Rare Oxytropidoceras diazi Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare and scientifically significant Oxytropidoceras diazi ammonite fossil, originating from the Lower Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous period (approximately 113–110 million years ago). Found in the Alps Maritime region of France, this specimen represents an exquisite example of a marine invertebrate that thrived during a time of global sea-level rise and ecological diversification. Every detail of this fossil has been carefully preserved, showcasing the distinct morphology of the genus Oxytropidoceras. As with all of our specimens, this piece is guaranteed 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The images provided show the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for precise sizing.

Geological Context

The Lower Albian stage marks a significant interval of the Early Cretaceous, when vast shallow seas covered much of Europe. The Alps Maritime region of France preserves a rich marine fossil record, including ammonites, bivalves, echinoids, and other invertebrates. Sediments from this region are typically composed of marls, limestones, and shales deposited in warm, shallow-water environments. These seas were highly productive, supporting a diverse range of ammonite species that rapidly evolved and spread throughout Europe.

Ammonites from this interval are especially valuable to paleontologists because they serve as biostratigraphic index fossils, helping to date and correlate Albian-aged deposits across different continents.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthoceratoidea
• Family: Brancoceratidae
• Genus: Oxytropidoceras
• Species: Oxytropidoceras diazi

The genus Oxytropidoceras is a key representative of the Brancoceratidae family, well known for its ornate ribbing and sharply defined shell features. These ammonites are crucial for subdividing the Albian stage into detailed biozones used in stratigraphy.

Morphological Features

This specimen of Oxytropidoceras diazi exhibits the classic ribbed ornamentation that characterizes the genus. The ribs radiate from the umbilicus, sometimes bifurcating or intercalating across the flanks, before meeting the venter, which often carries a pronounced keel. The whorls are compressed and ornamented with striking regularity, a trait that makes this ammonite visually impressive and scientifically identifiable.

The sharp ventral keel would have assisted in streamlining the ammonite through the water, allowing it to maintain buoyancy and maneuverability in its marine environment. These adaptations suggest that ammonites such as Oxytropidoceras were active swimmers and opportunistic predators, likely feeding on small crustaceans and planktonic organisms.

Collector and Scientific Importance

The Oxytropidoceras diazi ammonite fossil is valued not only for its beauty but also for its scientific importance. As a zone fossil, it helps refine the stratigraphic framework of the Albian stage, providing geologists with essential markers for correlating rock layers across Europe and beyond. For collectors, it represents a rare and striking piece of Cretaceous natural history, with its bold ribbing and defined keel making it a standout display specimen.

Ammonites such as O. diazi are relatively rare on the market compared to more common Cretaceous ammonites, making this fossil an especially desirable addition to any collection of fine-quality specimens.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected in the Alps Maritime region of France, a locality renowned for its Albian ammonite faunas. The fossil has been carefully selected, professionally prepared, and preserved in its natural state. It is sold with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its identity, provenance, and status as a genuine fossil.

This rare Oxytropidoceras diazi ammonite fossil from the Lower Albian of the Alps Maritime, France is an outstanding opportunity for collectors, researchers, and enthusiasts. Its rarity, excellent preservation, and scientific value make it a unique addition to any fossil collection, bringing with it a direct link to the rich marine ecosystems of the Early Cretaceous seas.