Thomelites Fossil Ammonite Lower Turonian Cretaceous Soria Burgos Spain with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

Genuine Thomelites Fossil Ammonite from Spain

This listing offers an authentic Thomelites fossil ammonite, a rare and scientifically significant specimen from the Lower Turonian Stage of the Late Cretaceous Period, approximately 93–90 million years ago. It was discovered in the Soria-Burgos region of Spain, an area well known for its fossiliferous deposits that provide valuable insights into the marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous. Each specimen is carefully selected for quality and preservation, and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photos show the actual fossil you will receive, with a 1 cm scale rule and cube provided for accurate sizing.

Geological Context

The Lower Turonian stage followed directly after the Cenomanian and marks a time when shallow epicontinental seas spread across much of Europe. These seas created rich marine habitats ideal for ammonites such as Thomelites, which thrived as active swimmers and predators. The deposits in Soria-Burgos primarily consist of marine limestones and marls, preserving an abundance of marine fossils. Fossils from these layers are not only beautiful collector’s pieces but also vital for biostratigraphy, enabling scientists to correlate sedimentary layers across different regions.

The Turonian period was also notable for global events, including shifts in sea levels and oceanic anoxic events, which influenced marine biodiversity. Ammonites such as Thomelites are key in reconstructing these environmental changes.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Thomelites
• Order: Ammonitida
• Superfamily: Acanthocerataceae
• Family: Acanthoceratidae
• Age: Lower Turonian, Late Cretaceous
• Provenance: Soria-Burgos, Spain

As a member of the Acanthoceratidae family, Thomelites is characterised by strong ornamentation and distinctive shell morphology that make it easily identifiable and highly valued by collectors and researchers alike.

Morphological Features

The Thomelites ammonite is renowned for several unique traits that distinguish it from other ammonite genera:

• Robust, moderately involute shell with strong ribbing.
• Tuberculation along the flanks and ventrolateral areas, forming nodes that enhance its ornamentation.
• Ribs typically cross the venter, giving the shell a striking appearance.
• Well-preserved suture patterns, which demonstrate the complex internal architecture of ammonite shells.
• Moderate to large adult size, often making specimens impressive display pieces.

These morphological details are not only aesthetically appealing but also contribute to the genus’ importance in ammonite taxonomy and classification.

Scientific and Collecting Importance

Thomelites fossils are considered excellent index fossils for the Lower Turonian stage. Their distinct morphological features allow for precise dating and correlation of Cretaceous marine sediments. This makes them significant in paleontological research while also being prized additions to private collections.

Collectors appreciate Thomelites both for its rarity and for its visual appeal. The pronounced ribbing and tuberculation make these ammonites stand out among Cretaceous fossils, while their origin in Spain adds additional geographic interest.

Educational and Display Value

Owning a Thomelites fossil ammonite from Soria-Burgos, Spain provides a direct connection to the Cretaceous seas that once covered much of Europe. Its striking preservation makes it ideal for:

• Museum-quality collections, representing a classic Turonian ammonite.
• Educational use, helping to demonstrate ammonite evolution, morphology, and stratigraphic importance.
• Decorative display, offering a natural piece of history for homes, offices, or study areas.

With its strong ornamentation, rarity, and scientific relevance, this Thomelites ammonite is both a fascinating research specimen and a collector’s treasure. Every fossil is carefully prepared, guaranteed authentic, and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for your assurance.