RARE Plesiosaur Vertebra Fossil Jurassic Lyme Regis Dorset UK Lower Lias Black Ven

Description

Rare Plesiosaur Vertebra from the Jurassic Coast

Offered here is a genuine rare Plesiosaur fossil reptile vertebra recovered from the renowned Black Ven Marls, Black Ven, Charmouth, Lyme Regis, Dorset, along England’s world-famous Jurassic Coast. Plesiosaur material from this locality is significantly scarcer than ichthyosaur remains, making this specimen an especially desirable and important fossil. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, carefully selected for anatomical clarity and overall condition. Full sizing details are shown in the photos.

This fossil is a genuine specimen and includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, providing lasting confidence in provenance and collectability.

Geological Formation and Geological Age

This vertebra originates from the Lower Lias Group, deposited during the Early Jurassic Period, approximately 199–191 million years ago, within the Sinemurian Stage. The Black Ven Marls are composed of fine-grained marine mudstones and marls laid down in a shallow epicontinental sea that once covered southern Britain. These sediments are internationally significant for preserving marine reptiles and form part of the classic fossil-bearing sequence that established Lyme Regis as one of the most important palaeontological sites in the world.

Fossil Type, Species, and Scientific Context

Plesiosaurs were large marine reptiles belonging to the Order Plesiosauria, distinct from ichthyosaurs and characterised by broad bodies, four powerful paddle-like limbs, and varying neck lengths depending on lineage. They were dominant predators within Jurassic seas, occupying a different ecological niche to fast-swimming ichthyosaurs. Fossil vertebrae attributed to plesiosaurs are far less common in the Lower Lias, making isolated vertebrae from Black Ven particularly significant to collectors and researchers.

Morphology and Notable Features

This specimen displays vertebral characteristics consistent with plesiosaurs, including a broader, more robust centrum compared to ichthyosaur vertebrae. The proportions reflect an animal adapted for powerful limb-driven swimming rather than tail propulsion. Surface texture and natural mineralisation are visible, preserving anatomical detail and confirming long-term burial within marine sediments. The three-dimensional preservation allows the form and structure of the vertebra to be clearly appreciated from multiple angles, enhancing both scientific and display value.

Depositional Environment

During the Early Jurassic, the Charmouth and Lyme Regis area lay beneath a warm, shallow marine environment rich in ammonites, belemnites, fish, and marine reptiles. Fine sediments settled slowly on the sea floor, allowing skeletal remains to be buried before significant disturbance occurred. Periodic low-oxygen conditions reduced scavenging and decay, contributing to the preservation of isolated bones such as this vertebra. These conditions are responsible for the exceptional fossil record preserved within the Black Ven Marls.

Rarity and Collecting Significance

Plesiosaur fossils from the Lower Lias of Dorset are notably rarer than those of ichthyosaurs, particularly isolated but identifiable vertebrae. This scarcity, combined with the internationally recognised provenance of Black Ven, makes this specimen highly sought after by serious collectors, educational institutions, and museums. Fossils of this nature are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire as collecting opportunities diminish.

Display, Educational, and Investment Value

This rare Plesiosaur vertebra fossil is ideal for advanced fossil collections, museum-grade displays, educational reference collections, or high-impact interior presentation. Its rarity, classic British Jurassic origin, and clear geological context make it both scientifically informative and visually compelling. Each specimen we offer is individually selected to ensure you receive an authentic and carefully curated piece of Early Jurassic marine reptile history from one of the world’s most important fossil coastlines.