Disclaimer & Educational Use

Last updated: May 2026

1. Educational Purpose Only

AmmoniteID uses artificial intelligence to suggest fossil identifications based on images you provide. These suggestions are for educational and recreational use only. The app is designed to:

• Help you learn about fossils you find
• Suggest possible families and genera based on image analysis
• Serve as a reference guide while fossil hunting
• Encourage curiosity about paleontology

2. AI Limitations

Artificial intelligence is not infallible. The app may:

• Misidentify specimens based on lighting, angle, or photo quality
• Confuse similar-looking fossils or non-fossils
• Suggest identifications with varying accuracy levels
• Fail to identify unusual or rare specimens

Always verify results with field guides, scientific literature, museum resources, or a qualified paleontologist before drawing conclusions.

3. Not Professional Appraisal

AmmoniteID does NOT provide:

• Professional fossil authentication
• Scientific classification or taxonomy
• Monetary valuation or appraisal
• Expert geological assessment
• Field guidance for professional paleontology

For professional identification, consult a museum, university paleontology department, or certified paleontologist.

4. Expert Review Feature

AmmoniteID offers an optional expert review where you can submit fossils for feedback. This feature:

• Provides guidance from experienced hobbyists or educators
• Is NOT a substitute for professional paleontological assessment
• Offers suggestions for reference only
• Does not constitute scientific authentication

Expert review responses are provided on a best-effort basis and should be verified independently.

5. Liability Disclaimer

We are NOT liable for:

• Incorrect identifications or misidentifications
• Decisions or actions you take based on app results
• Loss of valuable specimens due to reliance on incorrect IDs
• Damage to fossils in your care
• Commercial losses or disputes arising from identifications
• Harm caused by decisions made based on the app's suggestions

You use AmmoniteID entirely at your own risk.

6. Responsible Use

When using AmmoniteID, we recommend you:

• Treat suggestions as starting points, not conclusions
• Cross-reference results with multiple field guides
• Consult qualified experts for valuable or unusual finds
• Document your own observations (notes, measurements, location)
• Build your knowledge of fossil morphology independently
• Respect geological sites and legal restrictions on fossil collection

7. Not Geological or Scientific Advice

Nothing in AmmoniteID should be interpreted as geological, paleontological, or scientific advice. If you require professional geological or paleontological services, consult qualified professionals.

8. Fossil Collection Laws

Fossil collection is regulated differently by location. Some areas require permits, ban collecting, or restrict certain species. It is your responsibility to know and follow local laws regarding fossil collection. We are not liable for illegal collecting or violations of local regulations.

9. Photos & Specimens You Provide

When you submit fossils for expert review or identification, you warrant that:

• The specimen is lawfully collected
• You own or have permission to submit the photos
• The photos are original (not copied from other sources)
• You understand results are for reference only

10. Changes to This Disclaimer

We may update this disclaimer at any time. Continued use constitutes acceptance of changes.

11. Contact

For questions about this disclaimer or the app's limitations, use the contact form in the app.