A nice example of an ichthyosaur coprolite fossil from the world-famous Jurassic Coast beach of Lyme Regis, Dorset UK.
The fossil is matrix free and measures 48 mm (1.9 inches) across, which is a good size for this fossil type. It represents the poo of the animal, which sank to the seafloor and was preserved in the soft mud. The fossil is well preserved and has been prepared using air abrasive techniques to remove all matrix.
It has good detail in its preservation and a nice mottled brown colour. It has a nice 3D shape that is instantly recognisable as a poo and contains the remains of the diet of an ichthyosaur. It is very unusual as it contains a single ichthyosaur vertebra in, showing that the ichthyosaur that produced the coprolite ate another, smaller ichthyosaur. This highlights the predatory behaviour of the larger animal and shows the complex food chain in the Early Jurassic seas. The vertebra has been worn down, either by the acidic conditions of the digestive tract of the ichthyosaur or by exposure to the sea.
These are very popular and tactile fossils. Great for educating kids who never get tired of holding Jurassic poo!
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.