Description
This listing features a genuine Sternotaxis planus fossil echinoid, collected from the world-renowned Chalk deposits of Dover, Kent, UK. Formed during the Upper Cretaceous period, around 80–70 million years ago, this echinoid is an important representative of the irregular sea urchins that once thrived in the shallow seas of Late Cretaceous Europe.
The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate sizing. As with all of our natural history pieces, this fossil is 100% genuine and will arrive with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete peace of mind.
Geological Context: Chalk of Dover
The Dover Chalk is part of the famous Chalk Group, forming the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. These deposits accumulated in a warm epicontinental sea during the Late Cretaceous, dominated by microscopic plankton called coccolithophores. Over millions of years, their calcareous remains built up thick sequences of fine-grained chalk, interbedded with layers of flint.
Fossils within these deposits, including echinoids such as Sternotaxis planus, offer invaluable insight into marine ecosystems of the Late Cretaceous. The Dover region is a type locality for many species and remains a premier collecting site for British fossils.
The Species: Sternotaxis planus
Sternotaxis planus is a member of the phylum Echinodermata, class Echinoidea, order Holasteroida, and family Holasteridae. Like other irregular echinoids, it was adapted for a burrowing lifestyle within soft chalk sediments.
Key features of Sternotaxis planus include:
- An elongate, somewhat oval test (shell) with bilateral symmetry.
- A flattened underside, enabling it to rest and burrow in soft sediment.
- Petaloid ambulacra on the upper surface, used for respiration and circulation.
- Paired pore systems associated with tube feet for gas exchange and movement.
These features allowed it to live partially buried, feeding as a detritivore by processing fine sediments for organic particles. Its shape and structure reflect a specialised adaptation to the chalk sea floor.
Morphological and Scientific Features
- Phylum: Echinodermata
- Class: Echinoidea
- Order: Holasteroida
- Family: Holasteridae
- Genus: Sternotaxis
- Species: S. planus
- Geological Age: Upper Cretaceous (c. 80–70 Ma)
- Locality: Dover, Kent, UK
- Formation: Chalk Group
- Lifestyle: Burrowing infaunal echinoid, detritivore
- Preservation: Chalk matrix preservation, often detailed and three-dimensional
- Scientific Importance: Valuable for biostratigraphic dating of Upper Cretaceous chalk
Collector and Display Value
This Sternotaxis planus fossil echinoid from Dover is both scientifically important and visually appealing. Its preservation within chalk highlights fine structural details, making it an excellent specimen for collectors, educators, and display.
As an authentic piece from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, it represents not only a fascinating example of Cretaceous marine life but also a connection to one of the UK’s most famous geological landmarks. Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, this specimen is a worthy addition to any fossil collection, combining natural beauty with historical and scientific value.
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