Rare Prolyelliceras peruviana Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Chulec Formation Machay Group Proya Peru Certified

Description

Rare Prolyelliceras peruviana Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a rare Prolyelliceras peruviana ammonite fossil, collected from the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group, dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period. Found in Proya, Peru, this specimen represents an important fossil from a classic South American locality. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm cube included for scale. As with all of our items, this fossil is a 100% genuine specimen and is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Albian Stage (approximately 113–100.5 million years ago) was the final stage of the Early Cretaceous and a time of widespread shallow seas across much of South America. The Chulec Formation, part of the Machay Group, is one of Peru’s most important fossiliferous marine formations. Composed largely of limestones and shales, it preserves a diverse assemblage of ammonites, bivalves, and other marine invertebrates. The region around Proya is particularly famous for yielding ammonites like Prolyelliceras peruviana, which are key for biostratigraphic work and provide vital insights into Albian marine ecosystems connected to the Tethys Ocean.

Taxonomy and Classification

Prolyelliceras peruviana belongs to the genus Prolyelliceras, within the family Lyelliceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. Members of this genus are characteristic of the Albian, easily recognised by their compact shells and strong ribbing. The species peruviana is especially significant as it represents a well-documented Peruvian ammonite, providing important reference material for both regional and global correlations of the Albian Stage. Its identification has been central to stratigraphic studies in the South American Cretaceous record.

Morphological Features

The shell of Prolyelliceras peruviana is sturdy and compact, with strongly developed ribs extending across the flanks and sweeping over the venter. The ribs may branch or bifurcate, giving the shell a sculptured appearance that is both diagnostic and visually striking. The whorls are moderately inflated, giving the ammonite a robust form, while the ornamentation enhances its structural integrity. These features make the species easily identifiable and an important tool for paleontologists studying Albian ammonite successions. The specimen offered here retains these distinctive features in excellent preservation, making it highly suitable for both collectors and researchers.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Prolyelliceras peruviana are crucial in biostratigraphy, serving as zonal fossils that define intervals within the Albian Stage. Their relatively short time range and distinctive shell ornamentation allow geologists to correlate marine strata across different continents. For collectors, this fossil represents not only a scientifically valuable piece but also a visually appealing specimen from a classic Peruvian locality. Its rarity in the fossil market makes it especially desirable for those seeking unique ammonites with strong provenance.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil was collected in Proya, Peru, within the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group, one of the most significant Albian marine fossil sites in South America. Each specimen we sell is carefully selected for quality and authenticity. Every fossil is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, and professional packaging ensures safe and secure delivery.

This is a rare Prolyelliceras peruviana ammonite fossil from the Albian of Peru. With its strong ribbing, excellent preservation, and scientific importance, it is a superb addition to any collection of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.