Tragophylloceras Fossil Ammonite Green Ammonite Beds Jurassic Coast Golden Cap Dorset UK

Description

Genuine Tragophylloceras Fossil Ammonite from the Jurassic Coast

This is a striking and authentic specimen of Tragophylloceras, a beautifully preserved ammonite fossil from the Green Ammonite Beds of the Lower Lias Formation. Discovered at Golden Cap near Seatown, Dorset, UK, this ammonite comes from one of the most celebrated fossil localities on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast. The specimen has been carefully chosen for its quality, with clear morphological detail visible across the shell. The photographs provided show the exact fossil you will receive, accompanied by a 1 cm scale cube for accurate sizing.

Geological Age and Provenance

This ammonite fossil comes from the Lower Jurassic period, approximately 190–200 million years ago. The Green Ammonite Beds are a distinctive part of the Lower Lias Formation, deposited in marine environments that once covered much of southern England during the Early Jurassic. Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast of England, is world-renowned for its fossiliferous cliffs and has long been a destination for collectors and scientists alike. Fossils from this locality have been studied since the pioneering days of palaeontology, making specimens like this Tragophylloceras both historically and scientifically important.

Species Profile and Morphology

Tragophylloceras is a genus of ammonites belonging to the family Amaltheidae within the order Ammonitida. These ammonites are characterised by their finely ribbed, planispiral shells, often with subtle ornamentation that reflects their adaptation to the marine environments of the Lower Jurassic seas. Their compact, tightly coiled shells reveal distinctive suture patterns and ribbing that make identification possible for palaeontologists and collectors. As a member of the Amaltheidae, Tragophylloceras represents a key stage in ammonite evolution, with forms that are both attractive to display and invaluable for scientific research.

Depositional Environment and Scientific Importance

The Green Ammonite Beds were formed in a shallow marine depositional environment, where fine sediments accumulated in relatively calm waters. These conditions, coupled with rapid burial, created an exceptional fossil record, capturing ammonites and other marine life with remarkable preservation. Ammonites such as Tragophylloceras are biostratigraphically significant, serving as key index fossils used to define and correlate zones within the Lower Jurassic worldwide. Their abundance and variation within the Green Ammonite Beds provide vital evidence for reconstructing the biodiversity and ecology of Early Jurassic seas.

Discovery and Preparation

This specimen was discovered on the 3rd of May 2025 by our experienced field team members, Alister and Alison, at Golden Cap. Following collection, the fossil was meticulously cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison. Every stage of preparation was undertaken with great care to ensure the fossil remains both stable and true to its natural form. The ammonite’s fine details, including its ribbing and overall shell form, have been expertly revealed, making this a high-quality piece suitable for both collectors and educational use.

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. This Tragophylloceras ammonite from the Green Ammonite Beds is a superb addition to any fossil collection, whether for scientific interest, educational purposes, or as a unique display piece. Its provenance from one of the most famous fossil localities in the world, combined with its detailed preservation and careful preparation, ensures its desirability among both collectors and enthusiasts. This specimen represents a tangible connection to the ancient Jurassic seas of Dorset, where ammonites thrived nearly 200 million years ago.