RARE Red Chalk Fossil Shark Vertebra – Cretaceous – South Ferriby, Humberside UK – Genuine Marine Specimen

Description

RARE Fossil Shark Vertebra – Red Chalk Formation – Early Cretaceous – South Ferriby, Humberside, United Kingdom

This rare and well-preserved shark vertebra fossil originates from the Red Chalk Formation of South Ferriby, a historic fossil locality in Humberside, UK. The fossil dates to the Early Cretaceous, and represents a cartilaginous fish (elasmobranch), preserved within one of the most distinctive geological units in Britain—the richly coloured Red Chalk.

Fossil Type: Shark Vertebra (Elasmobranchii)

Species: Indeterminate

Order: Likely Lamniformes or Hexanchiformes (based on common taxa from Red Chalk localities)

Class: Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fishes)

Geological Stage: Early Cretaceous (approx. Albian–Cenomanian boundary, depending on locality depth)

Formation: Red Chalk Formation

Location: South Ferriby, Humberside, England, UK

Depositional Environment: Open marine shelf – low-energy basin with high iron content, resulting in the distinctive red hue and exceptional fossil preservation

Biozone/Zone: The Red Chalk spans the transition between the uppermost Albian and lowermost Cenomanian (e.g., Praealbianus Zone in some schemes)

Morphology Features: Shark vertebrae are composed of concentric calcified rings and display a cylindrical or hourglass cross-section. This specimen shows excellent preservation of the concentric lamellae structure, with mineral infill highlighting the details. Red Chalk fossils often exhibit beautiful preservation due to iron-rich sediment stabilisation.

Geological Context: The Red Chalk Formation is a distinctive, iron-rich marlstone that overlies the Gault Clay and underlies the Chalk Group. It is famously thin yet fossiliferous and represents a transition zone in Cretaceous marine ecosystems. South Ferriby exposures are particularly well-known for their rare vertebrate remains, including fish, belemnites, and occasional ammonites.

Condition: Fine preservation with visible concentric detail. Iron-oxide staining consistent with Red Chalk matrix. The specimen shown in the photo is the actual item you will receive. Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm.

Important Note:

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

A unique and scientifically important piece from a rarely collected UK formation—ideal for marine fossil collectors, vertebrate specialists, or those seeking uncommon British specimens.