Fossil Code: Category Two

Ammonite – Arnioceras  Ref No. 95

This ammonite has been recorded because it is a large mature specimen. We know this is an adult as it has a large thin extension of the shell known as a rostrum. This specimen was collected by David Sole and prepared by Andy Cowap. Scale = 10mm. David Sole ©.

Beetle wing case (Elytra) - Holcoptera   Ref No. 176

This is one of the more common insect remains found here at Charmouth. It is part of the hard case which beetles use to protect their delicate wings when not flying.

Brittle-star - Palaeocoma  Ref No. 11

Brittlestar fossils are usually not recorded in the Fossil Code but this specimen only has four arms opposed to the usual five. We know that the fifth leg did not break off this specimen because there is nowhere on the body for it to attach. It is therefore presumed to be a mutation. Scale = 10mm David Sole ©.

Crinoid - Pentacrinites fossilis  Ref No. 97

This is a large and well preserved example of the Pentacrinite bed. This discontinuous layer of the rock is composed of the crinoid Pentacrinites fossilis, which is preserved in a thin coating of iron pyrite (fool’s gold). Small portions of these fossils are common on the beaches around Charmouth, but large examples like this, with several specimens are important and should be recorded. Scale = 10mm.

Ichthyosaur

Isolated fossil bones are quite common on the beaches but articulated skeletons should be recorded. This partial specimen has been expertly prepared using acid. All the bones are in the same position as when the reptile died and are uncrushed. Scale = 10mm. David Sole ©.

Plesiosaur vertebrae  Ref No.168

These four plesiosaur vertebrae were found in June 2009 by members of the public. Plesiosaur remains are rare here compared with ichthyosaurs and these disarticulated backbones are a significant find. Scale = 10mm.