Description
Somerset Ammonite Hildoceras in matrix
This is a good example of the ammonite hildoceras from the Somerset junction beds near Ilminster. The Ammonite itself measures 6cm across at the widest point and the inner section has fine detail and well preserved. This ammonite in its natural unprepared state. The limestone matrix makes this an ideal display piece and the ammonite sits well at an agreeable angle. The South Somerset Junction Beds (now referred to as ‘The Beacon Limestone Formation’) are an extension of the fossil rich areas of Dorsets Jurassic Coast. This specimen is approximately 185 million years old, dating from the Lower Jurassic period.
Ammonites have been extinct for 65 million years. They are a form of Cephalopod, a group of marine molluscs. Ammonites were plankton feeders, with long tentacles, and swam upright. Altogether, there were in the region of four thousand different species. Ammonites became extinct 65 million years ago, at the same time as the dinosaurs. Although Ammonites themselves have long been extinct, the squid and octopus that swim in our seas now, are closely related. Ammonites range in size from 1mm wide up to metre across. They swam in the shallow tropical seas that existed in this area millions of years ago. Apart from these Jurassic Coast ammonites, see others listed under Ammonites.
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