Description
A rare and beautifully preserved specimen of Lytoceras forcicrenatum, a smooth, elegant ammonite from the Sinemurian Stage of the Early Jurassic, collected at Seatown, Dorset, United Kingdom. Known for its unique shell morphology and early evolutionary placement among Jurassic ammonites, this specimen is a fine representative of the genus and originates from the respected Alice Purnell Collection. The fossil shown in the image is the exact specimen you will receive.
Geological Context:
- Species: Lytoceras forcicrenatum
- Geological Period: Jurassic
- Stage: Sinemurian (~199 – 190 million years ago)
- Location: Seatown, Dorset, United Kingdom
- Depositional Environment: Offshore marine environment with mud-rich, low-energy sedimentation, typical of the Charmouth Mudstone Formation and lower parts of the Blue Lias
Taxonomic Classification:
- Family: Lytoceratidae
- Superfamily: Lytoceratoidea
- Order: Ammonitida
- Suborder: Ammonitina
- First described by: D’Orbigny, 1845 (genus-level)
Morphological Features:
Lytoceras forcicrenatum is noted for its smooth, involute shell with high whorls and delicate, flared suture patterns. The ornamentation is minimal, but the lobes and saddles of the suture lines are finely and deeply incised—giving the species its name (forcicrenatum refers to “forked” or “branched” crenulations). These traits reflect a pelagic, free-swimming lifestyle in deeper offshore waters.
Stratigraphic and Scientific Importance:
Members of the genus Lytoceras are important as long-ranging ammonites with distinctive suture lines. L. forcicrenatum represents one of the earlier forms of the genus, marking evolutionary transitions from more heavily ornamented Jurassic forms to the cleaner outlines of later lytoceratids. Its occurrence in Sinemurian deposits of Dorset helps refine local and regional biostratigraphy.
Additional Details:
- All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
- Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm: Please refer to the photo for accurate sizing.
- From the scientifically curated Alice Purnell Collection.
This is an excellent collector’s fossil—subtle yet scientifically important—and a beautiful specimen for display or study. An outstanding addition to any serious fossil collection.
Secure this rare ammonite from the early Jurassic seas of Dorset today.
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