Rare Puzosia orientalis Ammonite Fossil Turonian Cretaceous Betioky Madagascar Authentic Certified Fossil

Description

Rare Puzosia orientalis Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Puzosia orientalis ammonite fossil, dating from the Turonian Stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in the classic fossil locality of Betioky, Madagascar. This species is an excellent example of one of the most important ammonite lineages of the Late Cretaceous, with its elegant ribbing and evolutionary significance. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accuracy. As with all of our offerings, this is a 100% genuine specimen and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Age and Context

The Turonian Stage (approximately 93.9–89.8 million years ago) represents the early part of the Late Cretaceous. This period was marked by high global sea levels, widespread shallow seas, and a flourishing of ammonites and marine reptiles. Madagascar, positioned in the warm Cretaceous oceans, was home to abundant ammonite faunas that now rank among the most significant fossil assemblages in the world. The Betioky deposits are particularly well-known for their fine preservation, producing ammonites like Puzosia orientalis that hold both scientific and collector importance.

Taxonomy and Classification

Puzosia orientalis belongs to the genus Puzosia, which is part of the family Puzosiidae, within the superfamily Desmoceratoidea, order Ammonitida. Members of Puzosia are among the most widely distributed and stratigraphically important ammonites of the Cretaceous, appearing in many regions worldwide. Their relatively short stratigraphic ranges and clear morphological features make them excellent index fossils, allowing geologists to accurately date and correlate Turonian marine deposits. The species orientalis is one of the key representatives of this important genus.

Morphology and Features

The shell of Puzosia orientalis is typically involute, with a relatively smooth surface accentuated by fine ribbing that crosses the flanks and venter in gentle curves. The whorls are moderately inflated, giving the shell a compact yet elegant appearance. Unlike more heavily ornamented ammonites of the Acanthoceratidae, Puzosia displays a refined, streamlined form that may have been an adaptation for active swimming in open marine environments. This specimen clearly preserves these diagnostic features, making it an excellent reference for both scientific study and display.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Ammonites of the genus Puzosia are highly significant for biostratigraphy, as their evolutionary development during the Turonian is well documented and used extensively in zonal schemes. Their global distribution further enhances their value as index fossils, with specimens found in Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond. For collectors, a Puzosia orientalis from Madagascar is particularly desirable due to the exceptional preservation and provenance of Betioky fossils. This piece represents both a valuable research specimen and a visually appealing fossil that makes an impressive addition to any collection.

Provenance and Authenticity

This ammonite fossil was collected in Betioky, Madagascar, a globally important site for Cretaceous ammonites. Every specimen we supply is carefully selected for quality and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for full assurance of its genuineness. Secure packaging and professional handling ensure safe delivery, so your fossil arrives in excellent condition.

This is a rare Puzosia orientalis ammonite fossil from the Turonian of Madagascar, combining scientific significance, elegant morphology, and world-class provenance. A superb addition for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or natural history specimens.