Wagnericeras suspensum Ammonite Fossil Middle Bathonian Jurassic Germany

Description

Wagnericeras suspensum Ammonite Fossil from Germany

Genuine Middle Bathonian Specimen

This carefully selected Wagnericeras suspensum ammonite is a genuine fossil from Bopfingen-Oberdorf in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing its individual shell form, matrix, colour and preservation to be examined before purchase. Please refer to the sizing photograph for complete dimensions and proportions.

Middle Bathonian Geology

The fossil dates from the Middle Bathonian Stage of the Middle Jurassic, approximately 167 million years ago. During this interval, warm shallow seas covered parts of central Europe and connected with the Tethys Ocean. These waters supported ammonites, belemnites, bivalves, brachiopods and other organisms. Sediments accumulating on the seabed buried some shells and enabled fossilisation.

Baden-Württemberg contains classic Jurassic sedimentary rocks that have contributed greatly to the study of European ammonites. A fossil from a documented locality retains geological context and provides a tangible record of the marine environment that existed where southern Germany lies today.

Species and Morphology

Wagnericeras suspensum belongs to the Ammonoidea, the extinct group of coiled marine cephalopods related to modern squid, cuttlefish, octopus and nautilus. Its shell contained chambers separated by septa. The living animal occupied the final body chamber, while a siphuncle linked the remaining chambers and helped regulate buoyancy.

Wagnericeras is associated with Bathonian ammonite faunas in the order Ammonitida. The genus is recognised through its coiling, whorl proportions and ribbed ornamentation. Primary ribs may strengthen or divide across the flanks, while umbilical width, whorl section, ventral form and rib pattern provide important identification evidence.

Scientific Importance

Ammonites evolved rapidly and were widely distributed through Jurassic seas. Characteristic species are therefore used as index fossils to establish biozones and correlate marine sedimentary layers. Wagnericeras is important in Bathonian stratigraphy, giving an identified, localised specimen scientific interest alongside its visual appeal.

Natural Preservation

Following death, the shell settled onto the seabed and became buried by sediment. Compaction and mineralisation preserved original shell, replaced it with minerals or produced an internal mould. Natural fissures, incomplete edges, matrix attachment, colour variation, mineral staining and weathering are normal features of genuine fossils and record their geological history.

Collecting and Display

This German ammonite is ideal for a Middle Jurassic fossil collection, geological teaching set, cabinet of curiosities or natural history display. Its named species and locality make it especially appealing to collectors of European ammonites. It is also a thoughtful gift for a geology student or prehistoric marine-life enthusiast. The fossil pictured is the exact specimen supplied.

Certificate and Care

This genuine fossil includes a generic Certificate of Authenticity card with a lifetime guarantee. Handle it over a soft surface and support the fossil and matrix securely. Avoid impact, strong chemicals, washing and rapid changes in humidity or temperature. Store it in a dry, stable environment and dust gently with a soft dry brush.