RARE Reineckia anceps Fossil Ammonite Middle Callovian Jurassic UK – Genuine Authentic Prehistoric Marine Cephalopod with Certificate

Description

Rare Middle Jurassic Ammonite from Vienne, UK

This listing features a rare Reineckia anceps fossil ammonite from the Middle Callovian stage of the Jurassic period, discovered in the fossil-bearing deposits of Vienne, United Kingdom. This exceptional specimen was carefully selected for its excellent preservation, sharp ribbing, and overall display quality. The photographs provided show the exact specimen you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and authenticity.

Geological Age & Formation

Reineckia anceps lived approximately 164.7 to 161.2 million years ago during the Middle Callovian stage of the Jurassic period. During this time, the area now known as Vienne in the UK was submerged beneath warm, shallow seas. These waters formed part of an extensive epicontinental seaway that covered large portions of Europe. Fine marine sediments deposited in these environments encased and preserved ammonite shells, capturing their intricate details for millions of years. Fossils from this region are highly prized for their scientific significance and visual appeal.

Species Identification & Morphology

Belonging to the family Reineckeiidae within the superfamily Stephanoceratoidea and order Ammonitida, Reineckia anceps is characterised by its robust, moderately involute shell, broad whorls, and strong, continuous ribbing that extends across the flanks to the venter. The ribbing is evenly spaced and often gently curved, adding both strength and hydrodynamic efficiency to the shell. The suture lines are complex and well-defined, a hallmark of advanced Jurassic ammonites. These features are clearly visible in this specimen, making it an ideal example for both collectors and educational study.

Collector Highlights

• Preservation: Excellent, with sharp ribbing and clearly visible suture patterns.
• Size Reference: Scale rule cube in photographs = 1 cm squares for accurate sizing.
• Authenticity: 100% genuine fossil, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Provenance: Discovered in the Middle Jurassic marine deposits of Vienne, UK.
• Display Quality: A striking and scientifically valuable ammonite suitable for both display and study.
• Rarity: Reineckia anceps is far less common on the open fossil market compared to many other Jurassic ammonites, increasing its desirability.

Paleoenvironment & Scientific Importance

During the Middle Callovian, Reineckia anceps thrived in nutrient-rich shallow marine habitats. As a nektonic predator, it would have actively hunted smaller marine organisms, including crustaceans and juvenile mollusks. Its chambered shell (phragmocone) allowed buoyancy control, enabling it to hover or move efficiently through the water column.

In paleontology, Reineckia anceps is considered an important index fossil for Middle Callovian strata. Its distinctive shell morphology and consistent occurrence in certain layers allow geologists to date and correlate marine sedimentary sequences across Europe with precision.

A Premium Addition to Any Collection

This Reineckia anceps specimen represents a beautiful and scientifically valuable piece of Jurassic history. With its sharp ribbing, elegant shell form, and exceptional preservation, it is a standout choice for fossil collectors, geology enthusiasts, educators, or anyone seeking a unique natural history display piece.

All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen you will receive.