A nice example of three fused ichthyosaur vertebrae fossils from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Lyme Regis, Dorset UK.
The vertebrae are fused together (which occurred during the fossilisation process) and the largest measures 32 mm (1.24 inches), with the total size of the fossil being 54 mm (2.1 inches) across at the widest point. The bones are well preserved and have been prepared using air abrasive techniques. Two of the vertebrae are complete and one is a partial
It has good detail in its preservation and a nice light brown colour. There is very good detail in the neural and rib facets and there are also some bits of rib and stomach contents from the animal preserved. The bones have been geologically distorted, which would have happened during the fossilisation process.
Articulated marine reptile bones are hard to find and very sought after.
These fossils were first found by pioneering Victorian fossils hunters like Mary Anning. Ichthyosaur bones are very popular fossils from this location.
Around 198 million years old (Sinemurian, Early Jurassic), this fossil would make a wonderful addition to any collection.