RARE Xytropidoceras Ammonite Fossil Albian Cretaceous Kent England Authentic Specimen COA

Description

Rare Xytropidoceras Ammonite Fossil

Presented here is a rare and genuine specimen of Xytropidoceras, an ammonite fossil from the Albian stage of the Cretaceous period, discovered in Kent, United Kingdom. This is a carefully selected and well-preserved example of a classic mid-Cretaceous ammonite, displaying distinctive shell features characteristic of this important genus. As with all of our fossils, this specimen comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing it is 100% genuine. The photos provided show the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate size reference.

Geological Context

This fossil originates from the Gault Clay Formation of southern England, a world-renowned deposit for its rich diversity of ammonite fauna. The Gault Clay dates to the Albian stage of the Early Cretaceous period (approximately 113–100 million years ago) and represents a time of extensive shallow marine conditions across Europe. The fine-grained clays and silts of this formation preserved fossils with exceptional detail, allowing collectors and scientists to study delicate morphological traits.

During the Albian, rising sea levels created extensive shallow marine basins. These seas were rich in nutrients, supporting large populations of ammonites like Xytropidoceras, along with other marine invertebrates. Fossils from this horizon are invaluable for reconstructing the biodiversity and paleoenvironment of the Cretaceous world.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthoceratoidea
• Family: Brancoceratidae
• Genus: Xytropidoceras

The genus Xytropidoceras is known for its strong ribbing and robust shell design, traits that make it distinctive within the diverse ammonite faunas of the Albian seas.

Morphological Features

This specimen of Xytropidoceras displays the typical thick, ornamented shell with bold ribs and tuberculation, features which make the genus easy to identify. The ribs are generally strong, running across the flanks and often bifurcating, while the venter may show a rounded or slightly keeled profile. These traits provided shell strength and hydrodynamic advantages for active movement through the marine environment.

The shell morphology of Xytropidoceras suggests it was a mobile predator, capable of swimming effectively while using its tentacles to capture prey such as crustaceans, mollusks, and other small marine organisms. Its robust design and ornamentation also make it a highly collectible and attractive ammonite fossil.

Scientific and Collector Importance

Ammonites like Xytropidoceras are not only visually striking but also scientifically significant. They serve as biostratigraphic markers, allowing geologists to correlate layers of rock across wide regions. The presence of this genus in the Gault Clay makes it an important fossil for understanding the subdivisions of the Albian stage.

For collectors, this specimen represents both a rare acquisition and a scientifically meaningful fossil. Its clear provenance from Kent, coupled with its distinct morphological features, ensures that it holds value both for academic reference and as a display piece.

Provenance and Authenticity

Collected in Kent, United Kingdom, this fossil comes from the famous Gault Clay deposits, one of the most important fossil-bearing formations of the Early Cretaceous. The specimen has been carefully prepared and cleaned to showcase its natural detail without restoration. Every fossil we sell is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its status as a genuine piece of Earth’s history.

This rare Xytropidoceras ammonite fossil from the Albian stage of the Cretaceous is a superb addition for collectors, educators, or enthusiasts of natural history. With its striking ribbing, excellent provenance, and scientific importance, it is both a visually impressive specimen and a piece of paleontological heritage.