#Triassic fossil bone matrix

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Reptile Bone in Block Upper Triassic Westbury Formation Aust Cliff Bristol UK Genuine Vertebrate Specimen

This listing features a fossil reptile bone embedded in a matrix block from the famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, located near Bristol, UK. This vertebrate specimen comes from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, and is dated to the Upper Triassic Period (Rhaetian Stage, approximately 208–201 million years ago).

This specific fossil was discovered by our team members Alister and Alison on 07 April 2025, and has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison. It comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, and the photo displays the exact piece you will receive.

Geological and Palaeontological Context:

The Westbury Formation was deposited during a time of significant marine transgression and features a shallow marine to lagoonal depositional environment. Aust Cliff is one of the most celebrated Late Triassic fossil localities in the UK, known for yielding abundant and diverse marine vertebrate remains, including fish, marine reptiles, and coprolites.

Reptile bones found in this bed may belong to Placodonts, early Plesiosaurs, or other Triassic marine reptiles. Complete identification from fragmentary material is often limited, but such fossils still hold considerable scientific and educational value.

Morphology Features:

Dense, robust fossilised bone fragment

May show surface texture such as striations or curvature

Preserved in laminated dark grey micaceous mudstone

Could represent part of a limb, rib, or vertebral structure

Specimen Information:

Fossil Type: Reptile Bone in Matrix Block

Geological Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Geological Stage: Rhaetian Stage, Upper Triassic

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine / lagoonal

Discovered By: Alister & Alison (UKGE Team)

Date of Discovery: 07 April 2025

This is a well-preserved and scientifically significant fossil from a globally recognised British Triassic vertebrate site. It makes an excellent addition for fossil collectors, educators, or palaeontology enthusiasts interested in the evolution of marine reptiles.

Scale cube = 1cm. Please see photo for full sizing and preservation detail.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

[wtf-triassic]

Odontochelys semitestacea

By @alphynix​

Etymology: Toothed Turtle

First Described By: Lie et al., 2008 

Classification: Biota, Archaea, Proteoarchaeota, Asgardarchaeota, Eukaryota, Neokaryota, Scotokaryota, Opimoda, Podiata, Amorphea, Obazoa, Opisthokonta, Holozoa, Filozoa, Choanozoa, Animalia, Eumetazoa, Parahoxozoa, Bilateria, Nephrozoa, Deuterostomia, Chordata, Olfactores, Vertebrata, Craniata, Gnathostomata, Eugnathostomata, Osteichthyes, Sarcopterygii, Rhipidistia, Tetrapodomorpha, Eotetrapodiformes, Elpistostegalia, Stegocephalia, Tetrapoda, Reptiliomorpha, Amniota, Sauropsida, Eureptilia, Romeriida, Diapsida, Neodiapsida, Sauria, Archosauromorpha?, Archelosauria, Pantestudines, Odontochelyidae  

Time and Place: Around 232 million years ago, in the Carnian age of the Late Triassic

Odontochelys is known from the Lower Member of the Xiaowa Formation of China, commonly known as the Guanling Fauna

Physical Description: Odontochelys is one of the earliest known turtles - preceded by one, possibly two, precursors other than stem members of the family group - and it showcases how this extremely unique group managed to evolve in the chaos that was the Triassic Explosion. It was simultaneously similar to and very different from living turtles, a true transitional organism. Like other reptiles, it had teeth embedded in its jaws, rather than the toothless beak found in turtle mouths. Like turtles, it had the lower plastron extending from its ribs, but unlike living turtles it had no upper shell - instead, it just had widened ribs and no bony shell around its body. The ribs and the vertebrae were put together differently from modern turtles as well, and its skull was more stretched out compared to its living relatives. It didn’t have fused tail bones, and its scapulae were very different from living turtles. It had short limbs and long, thick fingers, as well as a decently sized shell. It was about forty centimeters long from snout to tail tip. 

Diet: The diet of Odontochelys is fairly uncertain, despite us having its teeth; though they are small and peg like, we can’t really extrapolate a function since we don’t actually know its precise ecology! They may have been used for stripping plants, but it’s also possible they were used to chipp up algae and other aquatic water plants, or even invertebrates! So, more research there is clearly needed. 

Behavior: The life history of Odontochelys is actually a big mystery. It was found in a marine environment, leading initial studies to indicate it was marine. However, it had the hands of a fresh water organism, including fresh water turtles today. Furthermore, studies of other early turtles indicate that turtles first arose on the land, rather than in the water, and later groups would adapt to water life; the limbs of Odontochelys share similarities with tortoises and support a terrestrial lifestyle. So, the ecology of Odontochelys has been a constant battle. That said, there is some evidence that it was actually marine - and may represent an early experiment in ocean life by turtles. One fossil of Odontochelys indicates that it had completely messed up shoulder bones, likely due to a problem in life rather than destruction of the fossil. This pattern resembles decompression sickness, aka the bends, aka the condition caused by a diving animal coming up much too fast from a lower depth. Modern turtles have complex behavioral adaptations to avoid the bends, so Odontochelys may be an early experiment in marine life in a group mostly adapted for terrestrial life. In this transition to ocean life, it not only lacked better physical adaptations for the ocean, but also better behavioral ones, and was stricken with the bends on its trip back to the surface. So, as we try to determine its ecology and behavior, these clued paint a rich tapestry of the world’s most transitional turtle. A pioneer! 

Ecosystem: Odontochelys was found in - and thus, the null hypothesis is that it lived in - an ocean environment near the coast of the Tethys sea. This was a deep, open ocean - pelagic, hence the bends and problems Odontochelys faced trying to deal with the ocean. It was a very fertile ecosystem as well, with a variety of Triassic marine animals showcasing the rapid evolution of these groups. Among the invertebrates, there were many different types of Ammonites, plenty of bivalves, brachiopods, and crinoids & sea cucumbers as well. Still, the fascinating part of the ecosystem was the sheer number of marine reptiles. There were Thalattosaurs such as Anshusaurus and Xinpusaurus; Placodonts like Psephochelys and Sinocyamodus; and Ichthyosaurs like Qianicthyosaurus, Guizhouichthyosaurus, Guanlingsaurus, and Callawayia. One of many beautiful deposits of marine animals from this Period - and the many Ichthyosaurs would have been major predators of the relative n00b Odontochelys. 

Other: Odontochelys also just looks really weird because it basically looks like your usual turtle except it doesn’t have a freaking shell so here we are with this oddity. It’s transitional in shape, transitional in ecology, transitional in behavior, and just. What the heck. What the heck, Odontochelys. If you need more proof for evolution despite knowing about the dinosaur - bird transition, have I got a friend for you. 

~ By Meig Dickson 

Sources Under the Cut

Anquetin, J. 2012. Reassessment of the phylogenetic interrelationships of basal turtles (Testudinata). Journal of Systematic Palaeontology 10(1):3-45. 

Bradley Shaffer, H., E. McCartney-Melstad, T. J. Near, G. G. Mount, P. Q. Spinks. 2017. Phylogenomic analyses of 539 highly informative loci dates a fully resolved time tree for the major clades of living turtles (Testudines). Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 115: 7 - 15. 

Feldmann, R. M., C. E. Schweitzer, S. Hu, J. Huang, Q. Zhang, C. Zhou, W. Wen, T. Xie, E. P. Maguire. 2017. A new Middle Triassic (Anisian) cyclidan crustacean from the Luoping Biota, Yunnan Province, China: morphologic and phylogenetic insights. Journal of Crustacean Biology 37 (4): 406 - 412. 

Gilbert, S. F. 2007. How the turtle gets its shell. Biology of Turtles: The Structures to Strategies of Life. 

Heiss, E. 2010. Functionality and plasticity of turtle-feeding with special emphasis on oropharyngeal structures. Universitat Wien Doctoral Dissertation. 

Hess, H., W. Etter, and H. Hagdorn. 2016. Roveacrinida (Crinoidea) from Late Triassic (early Carnian) black shales of Southwest China. Swiss Journal of Paleontology 135(2):249-274. 

Joyce, W. G. 2015. The origin of turtles: A paleontological perspective. Journal of Experimental Zoology Part B: Molecular and Developmental Evolution 324 (3): 181 - 193. 

Lee, M. S. Y. 2013. Turtle origins: Insights from phylogenetic retrofitting and molecular scaffolds. Journal of Evolutionary Biology 26 (12): 2729 - 2738. 

Lemell, P., N. Natchev, C. J. Beisser, E. Heiss. 2019. Feeding in Turtles: Understanding Terrestrial and Aquatic Feeding in a Diverse but Monophyletic Group. Feeding in Vertebrates: 611 - 642. 

Li, C., and O. Rieppel. 2002. A new cyamodontid placodont from Triassic of Guizhou, China. Chinese Science Bulletin 47(5):403-407. 

Li, C., X. C. Wu, O. Rieppel, L. T. Wang, and L. J. Zhao. 2008. An ancestral turtle from the Late Triassic of southwestern China. Nature 456:497-501. 

Lu, H., D.-Y. Jiang, R. Motani, P.-G. Ni, Z.-Y. Sun, A. Tintori, S.-Z. Xiao, M. Zhou, C. Ji, W.-L. Fu. 2018. Middle Triassic Xingyi Fauna: Showing turnover of marine reptiles from coastal to oceanic environments. Palaeoworld 27 (1): 107 - 116. 

Luo, M., Y.-M. Gong, G. R. Shi, Z.-Q. Chen, J. Huang, S. Hu, X. Feng, Q. Zhang, C. Zhou, W. Wen. 2018. Palaeoecological Analysis of Trace Fossil Sinusichnus sinuosus from the Middle Triassic Guanling Formationin Southwestern China. Journal of Earth Science 29: 854 - 863. 

Meredith, R. W., J. Gatesy, M. S. Springer. Molecular decay of enamel matrix protein genes in turtles and other edentulous amniotes. BMC Evolutionary Biology 13: 20. 

Neenan, J. M., N. Klein, T. M. Scheyer. 2013. European origin of placodont marine reptiles and the evolution of crushing dentition in Placodontia. Nature Communications 4: 1621. 

Nicholls, E. L., C. Wei, and M. Manabe. 2002. New material of Qianichthyosaurus Li, 1999 (Reptilia, Ichthyosauria) from the Late Triassic of southern China, and implications for the distribution of Triassic icthyosaurs. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology 22(4):759-765. 

Reisz, R. R., J. J. Head. 2008. Palaeontology: Turtle origins out to sea. Nature 456 (7221): 450 - 451. 

Rothschild, B. M., V. Naples. 2015. Decompression syndrome and diving behavior in Odontochelys, the first turtle. Acta Palaeontologica Polonica 60 (1): 163 - 167. 

Schoch, R. R., H.-D. Sues. 2015. A Middle Triassic stem-turtle and the evolution of the turtle body plan. Nature 523 (7562): 584 - 587. 

Shang, Q.-H., and C. Li. 2009. On the occurrence of the ichthyosaur Shastasaurus in the Guanling biota (Late Triassic), Guizhou, China. Vertebrata PalAsiatica 47(3):178-193. 

Vermeij, G. J., R. Motani. 2017. Land to sea transitions in vertebrates: the dynamics of colonization. Paleobiology 44 (2): 237 - 250. 

Wang, X., G. H. Bachmann, H. Hagdorn, P. M. Sanders, G. Cuny, X. Chen, C. Wang, L. Chen, L. Cheng, F. Meng, and G. Xu. 2008. The Late Triassic black shales of the Guanling area, Guizhou province, south-west China: a unique marine reptile and pelagic crinoid fossil lagerstätte. Palaeontology 51(1):27-61. 

Wang, X., X. Chen, C. Wang, L. Cheng. 2009. The Triassic Guanling Fossil Group - A Key GeoPark from a barren mountain, Guizhou Province, China. Notebooks on Geology 3: Chapter 2: 11 - 28. 

[dinosaurs-en-blog]

Agrosaurus

Agrosaurus (/ˌæɡroʊˈsɔːrəs/; Greek agros meaning 'field' and sauros meaning 'lizard', "field lizard") is the name given to the remains of what was originally believed to be a Triassic prosauropod from Australia. Agrosaurus would thus be the oldest dinosaur from that country. However, this appears to have been an error, and the material actually appears to come from Thecodontosaurus or a Thecodontosaurus-like animal from Bristol, England. The type species is Agrosaurus macgillivrayi. Members of an expedition from the British sloop HMS Fly supposedly collected a tibia, a claw and some other fragments in 1844 from Cape York, Queensland. The original block was purchased by the British Museum of Natural History in 1879, but the remains were not studied until 1891. Harry Govier Seeley in that year named it Agrosaurus macgillivrayi. The block was prepared in the late 1980s. Following the preparation, Ralph Molnar (1991) noticed similarities to the prosauropod Massospondylus. Galton and Cluver (1976) saw Agrosaurus as close to Anchisaurus. Vickers-Rich, Rich, McNamara and Milner (1999) equated Agrosaurus and Thecodontosaurus antiquus, claiming that the British Museum remains were mislabelled. The difficulty in correctly identifying the source of the fossil lies in the fact that the log of the Fly does not record it. The matrix in which the prosauropod bones were preserved was tested with rocks of similar age in Cape York and Durdham Downs, the latter being beds where Thecodontosaurus remains have been found in the Bristol area of England. The English beds compared most favourably. In fact, as early as 1906 Friedrich von Huene had described the rock matrix as 'extremely reminiscent of the bone breccia at Durdham Downs near Bristol' and had renamed the species Thecodontosaurus macgillivrayi. Remains of the jaw of a sphenodont identical to Diphyodontosaurus avonis, a lizard-like reptile common to the Bristol Triassic beds have been extracted. This reinterpretation of Agrosaurus as a misidentified British specimen has been accepted in later works. From the scant remains the living animal would appear to have been about three metres long (10 ft), with a typically prosauropodan appearance: bulky body, long neck, small head and clawed feet.[citation needed] Like other prosauropods, it was probably equally comfortable on all fours as well as on its elongated hind legs. It was herbivorous or may have been an omnivore. The name Agrosaurus is now generally considered to be a nomen dubium or a junior synonym of Thecodontosaurus. If Agrosaurus is not from Australia, which seems most probable, Rhoetosaurus and Ozraptor, both from the Bajocian (Middle Jurassic) would be the oldest known Australian dinosaurs. Fortunately they are well documented. More details Android, Windows

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Fish Teeth Bones & Coprolite Block | Westbury Formation | Upper Triassic Aust Cliff UK | Authentic Specimen

This listing is for an exceptional and genuine fossil block containing fish teeth, fish bones, and coprolite (fossilised faeces), discovered in the famous fossil-bearing strata of Aust Cliff, located near Bristol, UK. The specimen originates from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, dating back to the Upper Triassic Period (~208–201 million years ago).

This richly fossiliferous layer is world-renowned for its diverse vertebrate fossil assemblage, often referred to as the "fish, reptile and coprolite bed". The block offers a rare combination of preserved fish elements and coprolite, highlighting a dynamic nearshore marine depositional environment likely associated with a lagoonal or estuarine setting with variable salinity.

The fossil remains include small bones and well-preserved teeth, some attributable to prehistoric genera like Severnichthys and others possibly linked to early ray-finned fishes and primitive sharks. The coprolite present is often linked to larger fish or marine reptiles, offering insight into feeding behaviour and paleoecology.

Geological Context:

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Age: Late Triassic (Rhaetian Stage)

Location: Aust Cliff, near Bristol, England

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine/lagoonal, occasionally brackish

Biozone: Rhaetian bone bed, no narrower zone designation possible from available data

Fossil Features:

A multi-fossil matrix including fish teeth, fish bones, and dark mineralised coprolite

Distinctive from this rare UK site, known for significant vertebrate fossils

Cleaned, stabilised, and preserved by our preparator Alison

Specimen Discovery & Treatment: Discovered on 07 April 2025 by our own team members, Alister and Alison. Carefully prepared, cleaned, and treated for long-term preservation by Alison.

Scale cube shown in photo = 1cm. Please see photos for exact sizing and specimen detail.

Authenticity Guarantee: All of our fossils are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

This is the actual fossil you will receive — a one-of-a-kind glimpse into the Late Triassic marine world.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Fish Bones in Coprolite Bed Matrix – Westbury Formation, Upper Triassic, Aust Cliff UK – Genuine UK Fossil with COA

This listing is for an exceptional specimen of fossil fish bones preserved in matrix, collected from the famous fish, reptile and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK. This matrix originates from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, dating back to the Upper Triassic period—approximately 205 million years ago.

The specimen contains clear fossilised fish bone fragments, showcasing the excellent fossil preservation quality for which this horizon is renowned. The Westbury Formation at Aust Cliff is famous globally among palaeontologists for its wealth of vertebrate fossils, including remains of fish, marine reptiles, coprolites, and even dinosaur material.

Your specimen was discovered by our experienced field team, Alister and Alison, on 07 April 2025, and has been expertly cleaned, prepped, and stabilised by Alison to reveal its fossil content with care and precision.

Geological Information:

Fossil Type: Fish bones (possibly from genera such as Saurichthys, Birgeria, or similar Triassic taxa)

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Age: Upper Triassic (Rhaetian Stage)

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, England

Depositional Environment: Coastal marine lagoonal mudstone – shallow, anoxic marine conditions ideal for preservation

Biozone: Within the Psiloceras planorbis ammonite biozone (used for dating overlying beds)

Notable Features:

Genuine UK vertebrate fossil from a classic heritage site

Appears in original matrix from the fossil bed

Ready for study, display or collection

Each fossil is unique and the photo shows the actual specimen you will receive. Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to the photo for full sizing.

100% Genuine Specimen – Certificate of Authenticity Included

All of our fossils are carefully selected, professionally prepared, and guaranteed to be 100% genuine. This item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity for your peace of mind.

A great addition for any fossil collector, educational display, or natural history enthusiast!

If you need a bundled listing with similar fossils from this bed (e.g., reptile bones, coprolites, or teeth), feel free to reach out!

[uk-fossils]

RARE Reptile Coprolite with Fish Bones | Upper Triassic Fossil | Aust Cliff Bristol UK | Westbury Formation | Certified Specimen

This listing features a RARE small reptile coprolite fossil with visible fish bone inclusions, discovered from the renowned Aust Cliff locality in Bristol, UK. This exceptional trace fossil comes from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, and dates to the Upper Triassic Period, approximately 208–201 million years ago.

Discovered by our team members Alister and Alison on 07 April 2025, this coprolite has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison, ensuring both scientific integrity and display quality.

Geological Context:

Fossil Type: Coprolite (fossilised faeces)

Likely Producer: Small Triassic reptile, possibly a fish-eating sphenodontian or early crocodylomorph

Inclusions: Clearly visible fish bones and scales preserved in matrix

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Geological Period: Upper Triassic

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to marginal lagoonal setting with periodic terrestrial input – conducive to fossil preservation of organic-rich material like excrement

Notable Features & Scientific Importance:

This coprolite exhibits remarkable preservation, including bone fragments and fish scale inclusions, providing insight into the diet and ecosystem interactions of Triassic reptiles.

Trace fossils such as this are invaluable for reconstructing palaeoecological dynamics and food webs.

The Aust Cliff site is internationally recognised for its Triassic-Jurassic boundary exposures, yielding important fossils including marine reptiles, invertebrates, and trace fossils.

Palaeontological Classification (trace fossils): While coprolites are classified as ichnofossils (trace fossils) rather than body fossils, their morphological analysis and inclusions allow identification of likely producers and depositional context.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Scale cube = 1cm: Please refer to the photo for exact sizing. The fossil shown is the actual specimen you will receive—authentic, ethically sourced, and scientifically prepared.

[uk-fossils]

Ceratodus Fossil Coprolites – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, UK – Authentic Specimen

Ceratodus Coprolite Fossils in Matrix – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Penarth Group, Bristol, UK

This listing features a genuine fossil coprolite specimen, attributed to the prehistoric lungfish Ceratodus, embedded in original matrix from the famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol. This site is part of the Westbury Formation, a classic Upper Triassic locality in the UK known for its rich vertebrate fossil content.

Scientific & Geological Details:

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, England, UK

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Age: Upper Triassic (~205–210 million years ago)

Depositional Environment: Lagoonal to marginal marine with periodic anoxic conditions—ideal for preservation of vertebrate remains and trace fossils

Fossil Zone: Part of the Rhaetian Stage, marking the transition to the Jurassic

Notable Species: Ceratodus was a genus of lungfish, a group that still survives today in limited forms. These fish were adapted to low-oxygen waters and left behind spiral or pellet-like faecal fossils.

Morphological Features of the Coprolite:

Typically cylindrical or spiral in form

Surface texture may show subtle spiral markings (if not abraded)

Matrix may contain associated microvertebrate remains including fish scales or bone fragments

Represents trace fossil evidence (not the animal itself but its biological activity)

Specimen Information:

Discovery Date: 07 April 2025

Collected By: UKGE team members Alister and Alison

Preparation: Expertly cleaned and stabilised by Alison

Scale Reference: Shown alongside a 1cm cube for exact sizing – see photographs for dimensions and angles

What You See Is What You Get: The photos show the exact item you will receive

Authenticity: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. All our fossils are 100% genuine and responsibly sourced.

Educational and Collectible Value:

This coprolite offers a fascinating window into ancient biological processes and Triassic ecosystems. It's a perfect specimen for collectors, educators, students, and anyone interested in paleobiology or the evolution of vertebrate life. Trace fossils like this are invaluable for reconstructing diet and environmental conditions of ancient species.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Reptile Coprolite – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol UK

Fossil Reptile Coprolite in Matrix – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol, UK

This authentic specimen is a fossilised reptile coprolite, preserved in situ within a matrix from the iconic fish, reptile and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol. The bed belongs to the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, and dates back to the Upper Triassic period, approximately 205–210 million years ago.

Scientific and Geological Context:

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Geological Period: Upper Triassic

Depositional Environment: Anoxic, low-energy estuarine/coastal lagoon – ideal for fossil preservation

Lithology: Laminated dark mudstones with concentrated fossil bone, tooth, and coprolite deposits

Palaeoecology: A rich snapshot of Upper Triassic coastal life, including reptiles, fishes, and their trace fossils

Fossil Significance & Morphology:

Coprolites are trace fossils that provide invaluable information about the diets and digestive processes of ancient organisms. This specimen is likely from a carnivorous reptile, evidenced by embedded bone or scale fragments.

Morphology Features:

Elongated, rounded coprolite with clear concentric growth or digestive textures

Possible inclusions of crushed bone or fish remains visible

Notable Value: Such coprolites are used in scientific studies to reconstruct Triassic food webs, and specimens from Aust Cliff are among the best-preserved from the UK

Specimen Details:

Discovered by: Our own field team – Alister and Alison – on 07 April 2025

Cleaned, prepped and treated by: Alison

Scale Reference: 1cm cube shown in photo; see image gallery for full size and detail

Authenticity Guaranteed: Comes with our Certificate of Authenticity – all our fossils are 100% genuine

Actual Specimen: What you see is exactly what you’ll receive – no substitutes

Ideal For:

Collectors of trace fossils, educators, palaeontology enthusiasts, and those interested in the dietary history of reptiles in the Late Triassic ecosystems. A fascinating and tangible link to prehistoric life, ideal for display or educational use.

[uk-fossils]

RARE Fossil Coprolite with Reptile/Fish Fragments – Aust Cliff, Bristol – Upper Triassic – UK Authentic Specimen

This listing is for a genuine fossil coprolite (prehistoric faeces) embedded in a fossil-rich block from the famous Fish, Reptile and Coprolite Bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol, part of the renowned Westbury Formation, Penarth Group, dated to the Upper Triassic (~208–201 million years ago).

Your specimen was discovered by our own team members, Alister and Alison, on 07 April 2025, and has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to preserve its natural features. It includes both the fossilised coprolite and embedded fragments of other vertebrate fossils (likely fish or reptile bone), making it an exciting specimen for collectors and educators alike.

Geological Details:

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Locality: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Stratigraphy: Upper Triassic

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to marginal marine lagoonal setting, periodically influenced by storm activity and vertebrate activity.

Fossil Type and Features:

Fossil Type: Coprolite (fossilised faeces)

Possible Source Organism: Ceratodus (lungfish), predatory fish, or small marine reptiles.

Morphology Features: Coprolites are typically spiral or cylindrical with visible inclusions of bone or scales from prey items.

Preservation: 3D preservation in a sedimentary matrix; some specimens also contain phosphate-rich inclusions.

Significance:

Educational Value: A unique glimpse into the dietary habits of Triassic vertebrates.

Collectability: High – especially when combined with other fossil inclusions.

Rarity: Blocks from this bed are well-known but finite and increasingly rare due to erosion and collecting pressure.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to the photo for full sizing. The fossil in the image is the exact specimen you will receive – hand-selected for quality and interest.

Add a remarkable piece of prehistoric life to your collection today!

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Reptile Bones & Coprolite – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol UK

Fossil Reptile Bones and Coprolite in Matrix – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol, UK

This exceptional block contains genuine reptile bone fragments and an accompanying coprolite (fossilised faeces), preserved together in a matrix from the world-famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol. This geological unit, known as the Westbury Formation, is part of the Penarth Group and dates back to the Upper Triassic Period (around 205–210 million years ago).

Scientific and Geological Context:

Location: Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Geological Period: Upper Triassic

Depositional Environment: Coastal lagoon/estuarine system subject to episodic flooding and anoxic conditions, perfect for preservation of organic material

Lithology: Dark laminated mudstones and siltstones with fossil-rich horizons

Palaeoecology: Rich with vertebrate remains including fish, early marine reptiles (e.g. placodonts and ichthyosaurs), and evidence of terrestrial vertebrate activity via coprolites and bone beds

Fossil Features and Significance:

The coprolite is thought to originate from a carnivorous vertebrate and often contains inclusions such as crushed bone fragments, giving insights into the diet of Triassic predators. The reptile bones in this block may represent fragments from marine or marginal marine reptiles that inhabited or were washed into the depositional basin.

Morphology Highlights:

Long, cylindrical coprolite with preserved texture and mineral replacement

Bone fragments exhibit porous internal structure typical of vertebrate remains

Notable Use: Coprolites from this bed are significant for palaeoecological reconstructions and are used to study trophic chains in Late Triassic environments

Specimen Details:

Discovered by: Our own team – Alister and Alison – on 07 April 2025

Cleaned, prepped and treated by: Alison

Scale Reference: Cube in image = 1cm; full size detailed in photographs

Authenticity: Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity – we guarantee all our specimens are 100% genuine

Photographed Specimen: What you see is exactly what you get – carefully chosen, clearly shown

Why This Specimen?

This is an ideal piece for collectors, educators, and anyone with an interest in prehistoric life. With both reptile bone and coprolite in situ from a stratigraphically and scientifically important UK fossil bed, it’s a rare and insightful snapshot of Triassic life.

[uk-fossils]

RARE Fossil Reptile Bones and Coprolite – Aust Cliff UK – Upper Triassic Westbury Formation

RARE Fossil Reptile Bones and Coprolite – Westbury Formation, Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK – Upper Triassic

This is a carefully selected and authentic fossil slab containing both fossilised reptile bones and coprolite (fossilised faeces), recovered from the famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol. This site is one of the most scientifically significant Upper Triassic fossil localities in the UK.

Formation and Age:

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Geological Unit: Westbury Formation, Penarth Group

Stratigraphy: Upper Triassic (~208–201 million years ago)

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to lagoonal – ideal for fossil preservation

Fossil Content and Scientific Context:

The coprolite is likely from Ceratodus, an extinct genus of lungfish, while the reptile bones may belong to small Triassic marine or semi-aquatic reptiles, such as early archosaurs. Fossils from this bed often preserve dietary and environmental data, making them important for scientific and educational purposes.

This block offers a rare opportunity to own multiple fossil types in one piece, showcasing the diverse ecosystem that existed in the Late Triassic coastal regions of Britain.

Features and Morphology:

Reptile bones typically show dark mineralisation with fine surface detail

Coprolite may exhibit spiral or segmented morphology consistent with lungfish

Contrasting matrix and fossil material provide a striking visual display

Authenticity and Preparation:

Discovered by our own field team (Alister and Alison) on 07 April 2025

Cleaned, prepped and treated by Alison to ensure stability and clarity

All fossils are 100% genuine and come with a Certificate of Authenticity

Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to photos for full sizing

The specimen shown in the photograph is the exact item you will receive

Why Buy From Us:

We specialise in high-quality, scientifically interesting fossil specimens that are responsibly sourced and professionally prepared. Perfect for collectors, educators, or anyone looking to own a genuine piece of natural history.

[uk-fossils]

RARE Fossil Reptile Bone - Aust Cliff UK - Westbury Formation - Upper Triassic - Genuine Specimen with COA

RARE Fossil Reptile Bone – Westbury Formation, Aust Cliff, Upper Triassic, UK

This listing is for a genuine fossilised reptile bone preserved within a natural matrix from the famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed of Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK. This rare and historically significant site is part of the Westbury Formation within the Penarth Group, dating to the Upper Triassic period (approx. 208–201 million years ago).

Your specimen was carefully discovered by our own team members Alister and Alison on 07 April 2025, and has been professionally cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison to ensure both preservation and presentation quality.

The Westbury Formation at Aust Cliff represents a transitional coastal lagoonal to marginal marine depositional environment. Fossils found here are often associated with the Rhaetian Stage of the Upper Triassic, making them invaluable for understanding the pre-Jurassic marine and nearshore fauna of the UK.

The bone is likely to be from a marine or semi-aquatic reptile, with known species from this bed including Ichthyosaurs, Plesiosaurs, and primitive Crocodyliforms. While exact taxonomic assignment is not possible without further scientific analysis, the morphology is consistent with vertebrate skeletal remains from these groups.

Geological Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Stage: Upper Triassic (Rhaetian)

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, England, UK

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to marginal lagoonal

Notable Features: Preserved in original matrix with other fossil material potentially visible

Specimen Type: Reptile bone fossil in matrix

Each fossil we offer is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The fossil in the photograph is the exact one you will receive.

Please refer to the photo for full sizing details — the included scale cube is 1cm for reference.

Perfect for collectors, educational use, or display, this is a striking and authentic piece of British palaeontological history.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Reptile Bone in Block Upper Triassic Westbury Formation Aust Cliff Bristol UK Authentic Vertebrate Specimen

This listing features an authentic fossil reptile bone, preserved in a block of matrix from the famous vertebrate-rich bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, United Kingdom. This fossil comes from the Westbury Formation, within the Penarth Group, and dates to the Upper Triassic Period (Rhaetian Stage, ~208–201 million years ago).

The specimen was discovered by UKGE team members Alister and Alison on 07 April 2025, and has been carefully cleaned, prepped, and treated by Alison. The exact fossil shown in the photo is the one you will receive and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Geological Context:

The Westbury Formation at Aust Cliff represents a shallow marine to lagoonal depositional environment, laid down during a major marine transgression in the Late Triassic. This site is internationally known for its well-preserved vertebrate remains, including fish, marine reptiles, and abundant coprolites.

Reptile Bone Details:

While individual identification of isolated bone fragments can be challenging, the bone in this specimen likely belongs to a marine reptile such as a Placodont, Plesiosaur, or Ichthyosaur—all known from similar Triassic environments.

Morphological Features:

Dense, robust fossilised bone fragment

Preserved in laminated dark grey micaceous mudstone

May exhibit surface texture, curvature, or internal structure

Potential origin includes rib, limb, or jaw bone

This is a valuable and visually striking specimen from one of Britain’s most iconic Triassic fossil beds.

Specimen Information:

Fossil Type: Reptile Bone in Matrix Block

Geological Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Geological Stage: Rhaetian Stage, Upper Triassic

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Depositional Environment: Shallow marine to lagoonal

Discovered By: Alister & Alison (UKGE Team)

Date of Discovery: 07 April 2025

Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to the photograph for exact sizing and details.

This fossil is an exceptional addition for collectors of marine reptile material, Triassic vertebrates, or British palaeontology.

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Fish Tooth – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol UK – Genuine Specimen

Fossil Fish Tooth in Matrix – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Penarth Group, Bristol, UK

This listing features an authentic fossil fish tooth preserved in matrix, originating from the iconic fossil-bearing bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol. This site is internationally recognised for its rich accumulation of fish, reptile, and coprolite remains from the Upper Triassic period, particularly within the Westbury Formation of the Penarth Group.

Geological & Scientific Context:

Locality: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Stratigraphy: Westbury Formation, Penarth Group

Age: Upper Triassic (~205–210 million years ago)

Depositional Environment: A marginal marine estuarine or coastal lagoon setting with periodic anoxic conditions. These created ideal preservation conditions, capturing a moment in time from a biologically diverse late Triassic ecosystem.

Lithology: Laminated, organic-rich black mudstones with bone and tooth-rich concentrations

Fossil Description & Features:

The specimen displays a clearly defined fish tooth embedded within a natural matrix, offering a glimpse into the feeding anatomy of prehistoric fishes. Likely candidates for attribution include Saurichthys, Lepidotes, or Palaeoniscid fish—all of which are known from this formation.

Morphology:

Conical or lanceolate shape typical of piscivorous species

Smooth enamel surface, occasionally striated, with tapering to a fine point

Root occasionally visible, though often encased in matrix

Palaeontological Significance:

Teeth from this bed are essential in studying the evolution and dietary adaptations of early ray-finned fishes and predatory actinopterygians

The fossil record from Aust Cliff helps reconstruct the dynamics of Triassic vertebrate communities just before the major Jurassic radiation

Specimen Details:

Discovery Date: 07 April 2025

Discovered by: Our own field team members, Alister and Alison

Preparation & Treatment: Cleaned and stabilised by Alison

Scale Reference: Shown with 1cm cube – please refer to photographs for full sizing and angles

Authenticity: Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity – all of our fossils are 100% genuine and responsibly sourced

What You See Is What You Get: The specimen in the photos is the exact item you’ll receive

Ideal For:

Fossil collectors, educational purposes, museum displays, or anyone with a fascination for marine vertebrates of the prehistoric world. This specimen makes a superb addition to collections focused on Triassic ecosystems, vertebrate paleontology, or evolutionary biology.

[uk-fossils]

Fossil Fish Tooth – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Bristol UK – Genuine Specimen

Fossil Fish Tooth in Matrix – Upper Triassic – Aust Cliff, Westbury Formation, Penarth Group, Bristol, UK

This listing features an authentic fossil fish tooth preserved in matrix, originating from the iconic fossil-bearing bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol. This site is internationally recognised for its rich accumulation of fish, reptile, and coprolite remains from the Upper Triassic period, particularly within the Westbury Formation of the Penarth Group.

Geological & Scientific Context:

Locality: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Stratigraphy: Westbury Formation, Penarth Group

Age: Upper Triassic (~205–210 million years ago)

Depositional Environment: A marginal marine estuarine or coastal lagoon setting with periodic anoxic conditions. These created ideal preservation conditions, capturing a moment in time from a biologically diverse late Triassic ecosystem.

Lithology: Laminated, organic-rich black mudstones with bone and tooth-rich concentrations

Fossil Description & Features:

The specimen displays a clearly defined fish tooth embedded within a natural matrix, offering a glimpse into the feeding anatomy of prehistoric fishes. Likely candidates for attribution include Saurichthys, Lepidotes, or Palaeoniscid fish—all of which are known from this formation.

Morphology:

Conical or lanceolate shape typical of piscivorous species

Smooth enamel surface, occasionally striated, with tapering to a fine point

Root occasionally visible, though often encased in matrix

Palaeontological Significance:

Teeth from this bed are essential in studying the evolution and dietary adaptations of early ray-finned fishes and predatory actinopterygians

The fossil record from Aust Cliff helps reconstruct the dynamics of Triassic vertebrate communities just before the major Jurassic radiation

Specimen Details:

Discovery Date: 07 April 2025

Discovered by: Our own field team members, Alister and Alison

Preparation & Treatment: Cleaned and stabilised by Alison

Scale Reference: Shown with 1cm cube – please refer to photographs for full sizing and angles

Authenticity: Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity – all of our fossils are 100% genuine and responsibly sourced

What You See Is What You Get: The specimen in the photos is the exact item you’ll receive

Ideal For:

Fossil collectors, educational purposes, museum displays, or anyone with a fascination for marine vertebrates of the prehistoric world. This specimen makes a superb addition to collections focused on Triassic ecosystems, vertebrate paleontology, or evolutionary biology.

[uk-fossils]

RARE Fossil Fish Tooth – Westbury Formation, Aust Cliff, Bristol – Upper Triassic Coprolite Bed UK

This is a rare and authentic Fossil Fish Tooth preserved in a matrix block from the world-famous fish, reptile and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK. It was discovered by our experienced fossil hunting team, Alister and Alison, on 07 April 2025, and has been expertly cleaned, prepared, and stabilised by Alison.

This fossil originates from the Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, and dates to the Upper Triassic period (~205 million years ago). The Westbury Formation is especially well-known for its rich assemblage of vertebrate remains, including fish, marine reptiles, and the distinctive spiral coprolites (fossilised dung) attributed to large predatory fish like Ceratodus and Agkistracanthus.

Geological Details:

Formation: Westbury Formation

Group: Penarth Group

Age: Upper Triassic (Norian–Rhaetian)

Location: Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK

Depositional Environment: Marine shelf – low-energy anoxic conditions aiding preservation

Fossil Type & Preservation:

Fossil Type: Fish tooth

Condition: Well-preserved in natural matrix, shows diagnostic cuspate form

Associated Matrix: Often includes surrounding coprolite fragments and occasional reptile bone

Notable & Scientific Importance:

The Aust Cliff beds are one of the most studied vertebrate-bearing Triassic localities in Europe.

Fossils from here contribute to our understanding of prehistoric marine ecosystems and extinction/recovery events before the Jurassic.

Why Buy This Fossil?

100% Genuine Specimen – ethically sourced and prepared by UK-based specialists

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity

You will receive the exact fossil shown in the photos

Ideal for collectors, educators, or anyone with an interest in Earth’s history

Please Note: Scale cube = 1cm. For full sizing and close-up views, please refer to the photograph.

Add this exceptional piece of Triassic history to your fossil collection today!