RARE Turrilites acutus Heteromorph Fossil Ammonite – Lower Cenomanian, Cretaceous – Glynde UK – COA – Alice Purnell Collection

Description A rare and beautifully preserved specimen of Turrilites acutus, an iconic heteromorph ammonite from the Lower Cenomanian Stage of the Cretaceous Period, found at Glynde, East Sussex, United Kingdom. Part of the esteemed Alice Purnell Collection, this fossil is a prime example of the striking uncoiled shell morphology typical of the genus Turrilites. The photo displays the exact fossil you will receive. Geological Context: Species: Turrilites acutus Geological Period: Cretaceous Stage: Lower Cenomanian (~100.5 – 96 million years ago) Location: Glynde, East Sussex, UK Depositional Environment: Marine shelf within a subtropical shallow sea, dominated by marl and early chalk deposition during a global sea-level highstand Taxonomic Classification: Family: Turrilitidae Superfamily: Turrilitoidea Order: Ammonitida Suborder: Ancyloceratina Formally Described By: Passy, 1832 Morphological Features: Turrilites acutus is known for its tall, tightly coiled spire with smooth, almost cylindrical whorls. Compared to other species in the genus, it has relatively weak ornamentation and a slender profile—giving it the name “acutus.” The ribs are fine and may fade in mature individuals, while the body chamber continues the helical trend. This shell morphology suggests a planktonic or slow-drifting lifestyle, quite different from the more hydrodynamic planispiral ammonites. Stratigraphic Importance: Turrilites acutus is a well-established index fossil for the Lower Cenomanian of Europe. It plays an important role in biostratigraphic correlation of early Late Cretaceous marine sequences, especially in association with the ammonite zones of the Mantelliceras lineage. Additional Details: All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Scale Rule Squares / Cube = 1cm. Full sizing visible in the photo. This piece is part of the highly regarded Alice Purnell Collection. This heteromorph ammonite offers both visual intrigue and palaeontological value, making it ideal for collectors, educators, or anyone captivated by Earth’s deep-time marine history. Secure this unique fossil from the ancient seas of Glynde today.