Sigaloceras enodatum Ammonite Fossil from Jurassic Callovian Kellaways Beds Latton Quarry Cotswold Water Park Swindon UK


£ 36.00

GEOLOGICAL CONTEXT AND PROVENANCE

This is a fine example of a Sigaloceras enodatum ammonite fossil from the
Kellaways Beds, Callovian Stage, Middle Jurassic (approximately 166 – 163 million years ago). It was discovered at Latton Quarry, Cotswold Water Park, Swindon, UK, one of the most important sites for Jurassic marine fossils in Britain. The Kellaways Beds represent shallow marine sediments laid down during a warm period when much of southern England was covered by epicontinental seas.

The Callovian is a key stage in the Jurassic, noted for its abundant ammonite faunas that allow precise biostratigraphic dating. Sigaloceras enodatum is one of the characteristic ammonites of this period, providing crucial insights into Jurassic marine ecosystems.

FOSSIL TYPE AND SPECIES INFORMATION

The genus Sigaloceras belongs to the Order Ammonitida, Superfamily Stephanoceratoidea, and Family Tulitidae. The species Sigaloceras enodatum is distinguished within the Kellaways Beds ammonite assemblage and is valuable for defining regional biozones. Its fossil record reflects the adaptive success of ammonites during the Callovian seas of Europe.

MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES

This specimen displays the typical features of Sigaloceras enodatum:


• Planispiral Coiling – A tightly coiled and symmetrical shell, characteristic of Callovian ammonites.
• Fine Ribbing – Strong yet even ribbing across the flanks, radiating cleanly to the venter.
• Keel and Ornamentation – A well-defined keel runs along the venter, with ribs terminating neatly against it.
• Whorl Section – Compressed to subrectangular in cross-section, providing both strength and streamlined form.

The overall morphology of this species makes it easily identifiable and desirable for both collectors and researchers.

DEPOSITIONAL ENVIRONMENT

The Kellaways Beds are composed mainly of sandy clays and fine-grained sediments deposited in a shallow shelf sea. This calm, warm environment was home to a rich array of ammonites, bivalves, brachiopods, and marine reptiles. The rapid burial of shells in soft sediments promoted excellent preservation, often retaining fine ribbing and surface detail.

SCIENTIFIC AND COLLECTOR IMPORTANCE

Sigaloceras enodatum is not only scientifically important but also highly appealing as a collector’s piece:


• Stratigraphic Value – Helps refine the subdivision of the Callovian Stage.
• Collector’s Appeal – Its crisp ribbing and distinctive keel make it a visually attractive fossil.
• British Provenance – Specimens from Latton Quarry are highly regarded for their quality and clear geological context.

AUTHENTICITY AND DISPLAY


• 100% Genuine Specimen – Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Exact Fossil Shown – The photographs depict the actual ammonite you will receive.
• Scale Provided – Scale rule squares / cube = 1 cm; see images for precise dimensions.

This Sigaloceras enodatum ammonite fossil from the Kellaways Beds, Callovian Stage, Jurassic of Swindon is a rare and scientifically valuable piece, combining geological heritage with natural beauty, making it an exceptional addition to any fossil collection.