Description
Strenoceras niortense Ammonite Fossil
This listing offers a fine Strenoceras niortense Ammonite Fossil from the Upper Bajocian stage of the Middle Jurassic, collected in France. Dated at approximately 168–170 million years old, this ammonite is a scientifically important specimen from one of the key ammonite lineages of the Jurassic. The fossil shown in the photographs is the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate size reference. All fossils are guaranteed genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Geological Context – Upper Bajocian of France
The specimen originates from Upper Bajocian deposits in France, a country renowned for its rich Jurassic marine strata. During the Bajocian, much of the region was covered by shallow epicontinental seas linked to the Tethys Ocean. These warm marine environments were ideal for ammonite diversification, with limestones and calcareous sediments accumulating and preserving a wealth of marine life.
The Bajocian stage is particularly significant in the Jurassic timescale as it represents a period of evolutionary radiation among ammonites. Fossil-bearing beds in France are considered reference localities in biostratigraphic studies and have provided material central to defining ammonite biozones. Strenoceras niortense is one of the characteristic ammonites of the Upper Bajocian and is frequently used in regional and international stratigraphic correlation.
Species Overview – Strenoceras niortense
The fossil is identified as Strenoceras niortense, a species belonging to the order Ammonitida, superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and family Stephanoceratidae. Ammonites of this genus are noted for their robust, evolute shells with strong ribbing and prominent tubercles or spines at rib endings. The ornamentation of Strenoceras niortense is particularly striking, with ribs often bifurcating across the flanks, giving the shell a bold and highly diagnostic appearance.
The shell structure and ornamentation of Strenoceras not only provided mechanical strength but may also have served hydrodynamic or protective functions. These adaptations allowed the ammonite to thrive as an active swimmer in the warm, shallow seas of the Middle Jurassic.
Paleontological Importance
Strenoceras niortense is an important index fossil for the Upper Bajocian stage. Its distinct morphology and well-constrained stratigraphic distribution make it highly valuable in defining ammonite biozones, which are essential for correlating Jurassic rock layers across Europe and beyond. Its presence in French deposits highlights the country’s role as a classic region for ammonite-based stratigraphy.
This species also reflects the evolutionary experimentation of the Stephanoceratidae, which developed a wide range of shell morphologies during the Jurassic. Its robust ornamentation and striking appearance illustrate both ecological adaptations and evolutionary success.
Collector’s and Educational Value
This Strenoceras niortense ammonite fossil is a desirable piece for collectors of rare and scientifically significant Jurassic ammonites. Its strong ribbing and tuberculate ornamentation make it visually impressive, while its role as a zonal marker adds scientific and historical importance. For educators and students, it serves as a tangible example of ammonite evolution and stratigraphy during the Bajocian.
Guarantee of Authenticity
- 100% genuine Strenoceras niortense ammonite fossil
- Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity
- Exact specimen shown in the photographs will be sent
This is a rare opportunity to own a scientifically valuable and beautifully preserved Strenoceras niortense Ammonite Fossil from the Upper Bajocian of France, an exceptional piece of Jurassic natural history.
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