Rare Prolyelliceras ulrichi Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Chulec Formation Machay Group Proya Peru Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Prolyelliceras ulrichi Ammonite Fossil

This listing presents a rare Prolyelliceras ulrichi ammonite fossil, collected from the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group and dating to the Albian Stage of the Cretaceous period. Found in Proya, Peru, this specimen represents one of the classic ammonite forms of the Early Cretaceous. The fossil pictured is the exact one you will receive, with a 1 cm cube shown for accurate size reference. Every fossil we supply is a 100% genuine specimen and is provided 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, a time of high sea levels and globally warm climates. Much of South America, including present-day Peru, was covered by shallow epicontinental seas teeming with ammonites and other marine organisms. The Chulec Formation, part of the Machay Group, is one of the most fossiliferous Albian marine units in Peru. Composed of limestones and shales deposited in shallow marine conditions, it preserves a diverse assemblage of ammonites, bivalves, and marine invertebrates. Specimens such as Prolyelliceras ulrichi are key to understanding the stratigraphy and paleoecology of this important interval in Earth’s history.

Taxonomy and Classification

Prolyelliceras ulrichi belongs to the genus Prolyelliceras, within the family Lyelliceratidae, superfamily Acanthoceratoidea, and order Ammonitida. The Lyelliceratidae are among the most important ammonite families of the Albian, recognised for their robust shells and distinctive ribbing patterns. Prolyelliceras species, including ulrichi, are vital for stratigraphic work because they serve as index fossils for the Albian Stage. Their evolutionary importance and biostratigraphic precision make them highly valuable to paleontologists as well as collectors.

Morphological Features

The shell of Prolyelliceras ulrichi is stout and compact, with strongly ribbed whorls that radiate outward in a characteristic curved pattern. These ribs often sweep forward towards the venter, creating a dynamic sculptured appearance. The whorls are moderately inflated, giving the shell both strength and visual impact. These diagnostic features distinguish ulrichi from related species and make it an easily recognisable and desirable fossil. This specimen preserves these details with clarity, offering a fine example of the genus and species.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites such as Prolyelliceras ulrichi are highly significant in biostratigraphy, used as zonal fossils to define intervals within the Albian Stage. Their short time range and distinctive morphology allow geologists to correlate marine deposits across South America and further afield. For collectors, this species is particularly desirable due to its rarity and its provenance from the historic Chulec Formation of Peru. The combination of scientific importance, strong visual characteristics, and excellent preservation makes this fossil an outstanding addition to any ammonite or natural history collection.

Provenance and Authenticity

This specimen was collected in Proya, Peru, from the Chulec Formation of the Machay Group, a globally important Albian fossil locality. Every fossil we sell is carefully selected for quality and authenticity, and each is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure packaging and professional shipping ensure that your fossil arrives safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare Prolyelliceras ulrichi ammonite fossil from the Albian of Peru, combining rarity, scientific value, and aesthetic appeal. A remarkable specimen for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, and natural history treasures.