Sunday 3 October 2021

LYTOCERAS OF THE LIAS

A gorgeous Lytoceras sp. from within the Middle Lias, Lower Jurassic Bridport Sands, Margaritatus Zone, near the secluded town of Eype, Dorset, England. 

Eype is a small village that hugs the English Channel in southwest Dorset near the town of Bridport on the infamous Jurassic Coast. Picture creamy rust-coloured sand, a shelved shingle bank backed by a massive cliff-face and the constant rush of waves.

Aside from the surf, this is a quiet hamlet and a wonderful place to explore along the pebble beach. You'll want to stay well away from the cliffs as rock slides happen quickly and the debris field is much wider than you would think.   

Prepping these lovelies is a tricky business as the flanges are very delicate. You can see that many of the ornamental rings are intact. The specimen itself is amazing but the level of patience and skill that went into the preparation of this lovely cephalopod is world-class. 

Photo: Specimen: 16 cm (just over 6 inches) at its widest point. Craig Chivers, Natural Selection Fossils. If you would like to see more of Craig's work, head on over to his website: naturalselection fossils.com or check out his Instagram account @naturalselectionfossils. You will drool over the incredible ammonites, marine reptile material and some bivalves — plus some paleo art thrown in for good measure.