Description
This listing offers a rare and scientifically significant Pseudotissotia (Bauchioceras) bachioceras nigeriensis ammonite fossil from the Lower Turonian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in Nigeria. Ammonites are extinct marine molluscs belonging to the subclass Ammonoidea, relatives of modern squid and octopus. This particular specimen is highly sought after due to its rarity, unique morphology, and its importance in understanding Turonian-age marine ecosystems. Every piece is carefully chosen, photographed, and prepared so you can be assured that the fossil shown is the exact specimen you will receive.
All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing provenance and quality.
Geological Age and Formation
The Lower Turonian stage belongs to the Late Cretaceous period, dating to approximately 93.9 – 89.8 million years ago. This interval followed the Cenomanian and is notable for global sea-level rise and widespread deposition of chalk and marine sediments. In West Africa, including Nigeria, the sedimentary sequences of this age provide crucial records of the trans-Saharan seaway that connected different marine basins. Fossils like this ammonite serve as biostratigraphic markers, helping geologists date and correlate rock layers across continents.
Fossil Morphology and Features
The genus Pseudotissotia, particularly the subspecies (Bauchioceras) bachioceras nigeriensis, is distinguished by its strongly ribbed shell and ornate suture patterns. These ribs often form bold costae that give the shell a sculpted appearance, enhancing fossil preservation. The coiling is planispiral, a feature common to many ammonites, but the ribbing and whorl cross-section allow researchers to distinguish this genus from closely related forms. Specimens from Nigeria often preserve fine surface details that highlight growth lines and ornamental ridges.
This fossil provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the evolutionary adaptations of Cretaceous ammonites, which thrived in warm epicontinental seas before their extinction at the end of the Cretaceous.
Paleontological Importance
Ammonites like Pseudotissotia are invaluable in the study of biostratigraphy. Because they evolved rapidly and had a wide geographic distribution, ammonite species are ideal for correlating rock strata across different regions. The presence of Pseudotissotia bachioceras nigeriensis within the Lower Turonian stage contributes to the establishment of precise fossil zones used by paleontologists worldwide.
Beyond their scientific value, these fossils are also admired for their natural beauty, with ribbed shells that display striking symmetry and patterns. They make excellent additions for both academic collections and private displays.
Locality and Depositional Environment
This specimen comes from Nigeria, specifically formations representing the Eagle Ford–age equivalents within the Lower Turonian. During the Cretaceous, this region was submerged beneath shallow tropical seas. Warm, nutrient-rich waters supported diverse marine ecosystems, including ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, and marine reptiles. Fine-grained sediments provided excellent conditions for fossil preservation, allowing delicate shell structures to survive for millions of years.
Collectible Value and Guarantee
- Rare species: Pseudotissotia (Bauchioceras) bachioceras nigeriensis
- Age: Lower Turonian, Late Cretaceous (~93–90 million years ago)
- Locality: Nigeria
- Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Scale cube = 1 cm (full sizing in photos)
- Exact specimen shown in the photographs
This ammonite fossil is not only a scientifically important specimen but also a striking natural display piece. Its rarity makes it a desirable addition for serious fossil collectors, students of paleontology, and anyone with an interest in Earth’s deep history.
Own a rare piece of Cretaceous history with this Pseudotissotia ammonite fossil – an authentic relic of prehistoric seas.
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