Rare Turrilites costatu Heteromorph Ammonite Fossil Cenomanian Cretaceous Montange France Genuine Specimen

Description

Rare Turrilites costatu Heteromorph Ammonite Fossil

This listing offers a rare Turrilites costatu heteromorph ammonite fossil from the Cenomanian Stage of the Cretaceous period, found at the renowned locality of Montange, France. A superb example of a heteromorph ammonite, this specimen exhibits the distinctive spiral-tower coiling and ornamentation that makes the genus Turrilites one of the most visually striking groups of ammonites. The fossil pictured is the exact piece you will receive. A 1 cm scale cube is shown in the photographs for reference, with full measurements included in the images. Every fossil we supply is a 100% genuine specimen and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context

The fossil comes from the Cenomanian Stage, dated to approximately 100.5–93.9 million years ago, which marks the beginning of the Late Cretaceous. This interval is notable for global marine transgressions, with shallow seas spreading widely across Europe. The Cenomanian seas were warm and biodiverse, supporting a rich range of ammonites, bivalves, echinoids, and marine reptiles. Montange is an important French locality that has produced well-documented assemblages of ammonites, making specimens from here highly valued by paleontologists and collectors alike.

Taxonomy and Classification

Turrilites costatu belongs to the genus Turrilites, within the family Turrilitidae, superfamily Turrilitoidea, and order Ammonitida. The Turrilitidae represent one of the most iconic groups of heteromorph ammonites, which abandoned the traditional planispiral form of most ammonites and instead evolved tightly wound, helically coiled shells. The species Turrilites costatu is recognized for its strong ornamentation and prominent ribbing that spirals along the tall, tower-like shell, setting it apart from other heteromorph groups.

Morphology and Features

The shell of Turrilites costatu is typically high-spired, with whorls coiled into a helical tower rather than a flat spiral. The ribs are strongly developed and extend in regular intervals, giving the fossil a bold, sculptured appearance. These features not only make the specimen highly diagnostic for the genus but also provide visual appeal for collectors. The unusual shell morphology of Turrilites is thought to have influenced the animal’s lifestyle, perhaps making it a slower, planktonic drifter in the Cretaceous seas rather than an active swimmer like more streamlined ammonites.

Scientific and Collector Significance

Heteromorph ammonites such as Turrilites costatu are invaluable in Cenomanian biostratigraphy, serving as index fossils for correlating marine strata across Europe and other regions. Their distinctive morphologies are also central to understanding evolutionary diversification in ammonites, as they highlight the range of ecological adaptations these cephalopods achieved. For collectors, Turrilites fossils from Montange are particularly prized because of their rarity, scientific importance, and aesthetic form. The ribbed, tower-like structure of Turrilites makes it a centerpiece in any ammonite collection.

Provenance and Authenticity

This fossil was collected from Montange, France, a classic Cenomanian fossil site known for its exceptional ammonite faunas. Every specimen we offer is carefully selected, guaranteed to be authentic, and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Secure professional packaging ensures that the fossil will reach you safely and in excellent condition.

This is a rare opportunity to own a Turrilites costatu heteromorph ammonite fossil from the Cenomanian Stage of France. A scientifically important and visually impressive specimen, it is an ideal addition for collectors of ammonites, Cretaceous fossils, or anyone passionate about paleontology and natural history.