Spiny ammonite from Whitby

[dhiggi]

Found this poking out of a block of shale this morning in the Whitby area; managed to keep the remaining spines mostly intact while starting to prep it. Any ideas on genus/species?

Would the pyrite around the opening have resulted from the ammonites soft tissue?

 Thank you for looking 

[TqB]

Catacoeloceras I think, nice spines! The pyrite may well be linked to decay of the ammonite tissue, though there's a lot around anyway probably down to more generalised decay of organic matter.

Edited October 18, 2020 by TqB

[TqB]

As always for Yorkshire Lias ammonites, try Andy's blog for more excellent information and to track down species.

 

https://andysfossils.com/2015/07/05/whats-in-a-name-catacoeloceras/

Edited October 18, 2020 by TqB

[dhiggi]

2 minutes ago, TqB said:

Catacoeloceras I think, nice spines! The pyrite may well be linked to decay of the ammonite tissue, though there's a lot around anyway probably down to more generalised decay of organic matter.

Thank you yet again @TqB, I daren’t attempt any prep on the inner whorls until I get a fresh point for my air pen so it’ll sit in the collection like that for a while

[dhiggi]

This was the only other decent find of the morning before the weather sent us home early to do some prepping instead. Started off nice and easy but it was really tough pyrite underneath. Shame the centre was missing a little but pleased with the result 

[Top Trilo]

Looks great

[Tidgy's Dad]

Nice finds! 

[Ludwigia]

6 hours ago, dhiggi said:

Thank you yet again @TqB, I daren’t attempt any prep on the inner whorls until I get a fresh point for my air pen so it’ll sit in the collection like that for a while

Sounds like it's time to invest in an abrader Very nice Cata which deserves tender loving care.

[dhiggi]

9 hours ago, Ludwigia said:

Sounds like it's time to invest in an abrader Very nice Cata which deserves tender loving care.

Yes I fear it might be. Though I might find someone more capable than myself to finish the prep on this one.

 

Thanks @Top Trilo & @Tidgy's Dad