Serpula or Worm Tube Fossil
Serpula sp. • Body fossil / invertebrate tube-dwelling polychaete
Geological Period
Jurassic (Callovian to Oxfordian) / Cretaceous
Estimated Age
165 to 155 million years old
Preservation Type
Permineralization and calcitic replacement of the original tube within a rounded clast
Condition Assessment
Good condition; the tube is partially exposed on the surface of a naturally rolled pebble, showing moderate wear due to wave action
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Annelida, Class Polychaeta, Order Sabellida, Family Serpulidae
Morphological Description
The specimen shows a meandering, sinuous calcareous tubular structure attached to or embedded within a flat pebble matrix. The tube displays a rounded cross-section with minor longitudinal striations and an undulating growth path.
Rock Matrix
Grey argillaceous limestone / flint-like nodule pebble
Formation & Location
Falaises des Vaches Noires, Normandy, France (Callovian-Oxfordian formations)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 2 to 3 cm in length, consistent with typical small serpulid worm tubes found as drifted pebbles
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$5 - $15 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, frequently found weathered out of the cliffs and along the beaches of Normandy
Scientific Significance
Provides insight into Jurassic marine benthic ecosystems, specifically fouling communities and hard-substrate encrusters in shallow shelf environments
Preparation Recommendations
No intensive preparation required as it is naturally exposed by wave action; gentle brushing with water to clean surface debris is sufficient
Notable Features
Preserved as a distinct S-shaped meandering tube on a beach-worn pebble derived from the famous Vaches Noires fossil-rich cliffs
Notes
falaises des Vaches Noires