Hemingfordian

Hemingfordian refers to a specific stage of the British Early Jurassic epoch. It is a subdivision of the Lias Group, a sequence of sedimentary rocks predominantly found in England. The Hemingfordian stage is characterized by its distinct fossil assemblages, which help paleontologists date and correlate rock layers from different locations. These fossils often include ammonites, belemnites, and marine reptile remains, providing valuable insights into the prehistoric marine life of the time.

The Hemingfordian stage is placed chronologically after the Sinemurian and before the Toarcian stages. It represents a period approximately 190 to 199 million years ago. The geological formations associated with the Hemingfordian are typically marine shales and limestones, reflecting the widespread shallow seas that covered much of Britain during the Early Jurassic. The study of Hemingfordian strata is crucial for understanding the paleoenvironment, biogeography, and evolutionary history of life during this critical phase of Earth's history.